Structured Opinion Writing
Compose opinion pieces that introduce a topic, state a clear point of view, provide organised reasons linked with connecting words, and include a concluding statement or section
Suggested ages 6–11
Learning journey
Your child is learning to write for different purposes beyond stories — including opinions, explanations, and poetry — while developing planning skills, building writing stamina, and learning to revise and proofread their work.
Evidence of understanding
- Write an opinion piece that introduces the topic, states a clear opinion, and provides at least two reasons
- Use linking words (because, and, also, for example) to connect the opinion to supporting reasons
- End an opinion piece with a concluding statement that restates or reinforces the opinion
Assessment prompt
Can Structured Opinion Writing write a persuasive piece — like arguing for a longer lunch break or why dogs are better pets than cats — with a clear viewpoint, organised reasons, and a conclusion?
Standards alignment
W.3.1
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · Grade 3
W.3.1a
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · Grade 3
W.3.1b
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · Grade 3
W.3.1c
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · Grade 3
W.3.1d
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · Grade 3
W.4.1
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · Grade 4
W.4.1a
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · Grade 4
W.4.1b
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · Grade 4
W.4.1c
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · Grade 4
W.4.1d
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · Grade 4
W.5.1
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · Grade 5
W.5.1a
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · Grade 5
W.5.1b
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · Grade 5
W.5.1c
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · Grade 5
W.5.1d
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · Grade 5