Writing Opinion Essays (Style only)

The two types of opinion essays that we will see: Type One: An open question like “What is your favorite kind of food and why?” Type two: A question that asks you to choose between two options like “If you could take a vacation in the mountains or at the beach, which would you take?” Activity: On page 274 of your book, classify the essay topics (1-9) as either type one or type two.

Style for Type One Sample Question: What is your favorite kind of food and why? Use reasons and details to support your answer. Introduction Objective: Give your opinion (plus mention three reasons why here) ”Mexican food is the best food in the world because…” Body paragraph one Objective: Explain the first reason why your opinion is right. “First, Mexican food is my favorite because it is loaded with delightful spices”. Body paragraph two Objective: Explain the second reason why your opinion is right. “Another reason why Mexican food is the best food is because…” Body paragraph three Objective: Explain the third reason why your opinion is right. “Finally, I love Mexican food the best, because….” Conclusion Objective: Summarize the reasons that you have stated and repeat your opinion.

Style for Type Two –Admitting the Opposition Style for Type Two –Admitting the Opposition. Sample question: If you could take a vacation in the mountains or at the beach, which would you take? Use reasons and details to support your answer. INTRODUCTION Objective: Mention that there are two possible opinions on this topic, opinion A and opinion B. Admit that the opposition can make good points, but assert your preference as superior. Body Paragraph one Objective: Give some reasons to believe that opinion A is right. “It is true that there are some compelling reasons choose a vacation in the mountains over a vacation at the beach.” Mention the reasons using signal words, details and examples. Body Paragraph two Objective: Give some reasons to believe that opinion B is more correct “Although there are some good reasons to believe that a vacation in the mountains would be ideal, there are better reasons to believe that a vacation at the beach would be better.” Mention the reasons using signal words, details and examples. Body Paragraph three Objective: Give even more reasons why opinion B is right. “There are even more reasons why taking a vacation at the beach would be the best way to spend a vacation.” Mention the reasons using signal words, details and examples. CONCLUSION Objective: Re-assert your opinion and claim its superiority.