In this guide
Opinion essays are one of the most common writing assignments in Grades 4 to 6, and they're the foundation of the persuasive and argumentative writing kids will do in middle and high school.
The structure is simple: say what you think, give your reasons, prove each reason, and wrap it up. Here's how to teach it step by step.
What is an opinion essay?
An opinion essay states the writer's point of view on a question and supports it with reasons and examples. The goal is to convince the reader, or at least show that the opinion is well thought out.
Typical prompts:
- Should kids have homework?
- What is the best season of the year?
- Should every school have a garden?
- Is it better to have a cat or a dog?
Step 1: Choose a side and say it clearly
Kids often hedge: "Homework is kind of good and kind of bad." In an opinion essay, they need to pick a side, even if they can see both.
The opinion statement goes in the introduction:
I believe students in Grade 5 should have less homework.
Phrases like I believe, In my opinion, and I think are fine at this level.
Step 2: Plan three reasons
Before writing, list reasons on scrap paper. Then pick the three strongest. A reason answers "Why?"
Opinion: Students should have less homework.
Reason 1: Kids need time to play and rest.
Reason 2: Families have less time together.
Reason 3: Kids can practise skills in other ways, like reading for fun.
Planning takes five minutes and saves a lot of staring at a blank page.
Step 3: Back up each reason
This is where most essays at this age fall short. A reason without support is just a claim. Teach kids to add a "because" or "for example" to every reason.
Reason: Kids need time to play and rest.
Support: For example, after a full day of school, playing outside helps kids burn off energy and sleep better.
Support can be an example, a fact, a personal experience or an explanation.
Step 4: Write the introduction
A good introduction has two or three parts:
- A hook that grabs attention (see 7 ways to start an essay)
- A little background on the topic
- The opinion statement
Imagine finishing a seven-hour school day, only to sit down for another hour of worksheets. For many students, that's every night. I believe students in Grade 5 should have less homework.
Step 5: Write the body paragraphs
Each reason gets its own paragraph:
- Topic sentence that states the reason
- Support: one or two examples or explanations
- Closing sentence that links back to the opinion
Use transitions to connect them: First, Another reason, Most importantly.
Step 6: Write the conclusion
The conclusion restates the opinion in new words, briefly sums up the reasons, and ends with a final thought or call to action. See how to write a conclusion.
Less homework would give students time to rest, connect with their families and enjoy learning in new ways. Schools should try a lighter homework plan for one term and see the difference.
Planning template
Have your child fill this in before writing:
- Question:
- My opinion:
- Reason 1: ... Because / for example:
- Reason 2: ... Because / for example:
- Reason 3: ... Because / for example:
- Final thought:
Leveling up: address the other side
Strong Grade 6 writers can add a sentence that acknowledges the opposite view and answers it:
Some people say homework teaches responsibility. However, kids can also learn responsibility through chores, sports and clubs.
This is the first step toward argumentative writing, and teachers notice it.
Try it: Use the template to plan an opinion essay on "Should kids be allowed to choose their own bedtime?"
Where this fits
Opinion writing combines everything: clear sentences, organized paragraphs and smooth transitions. In Smart Little Writers, Lesson 10 teaches kids to express an opinion in writing, make clear and logical points, and back them up.