1. Series of Paragraphs Expressing an Opinion OSSLT Prep

2. You have 48 lines (2 pages) to answer this question

3. Step 1: Plan (1)Choose a side. You must take a position on the topic (2)You must either answer YES or NO (agree or disagree) and then explain WHY. – Write your yes or no statement in a single sentence. (3) Use the rough space to organize your ideas. – Your opinion – The reasons why you think this – Your supporting details (facts & examples)

4. Step 2: Write your answer (1) INTRODUCTION Write your opinion statement with supporting reasons – Ex. Yes, students benefit from a two-month summer break because... It can be more than one sentence You CAN use the word “I”

5. (2) BODY PARAGRAPHS Each of your reasons is a body paragraph Start each paragraph with a sentence outlining the reason for your opinion (topic sentence) – Ex. Students benefit from a two-month summer break because they can work to save money for university. Continue to prove your opinion using supporting details, examples and facts (at least 3 per paragraph) Be sure to end your paragraph with a concluding sentence that relates to your reason. – Ex. Clearly, summer break is necessary for students so they can make money for their future.

6. (3) CONCLUSION Your conclusion must be at least one sentence. It should repeat your opinion and your reasons Do you have LOTS of space left to fill? Here are some ideas... Review each of your main points from your paragraphs – Include a personal connection to the topic

7. Step 3: EDIT! Do you have a title? Do you have at least 3 separate paragraphs (marked by indenting or skipping a line)? Do you have an introduction, body paragraphs & conclusion? Is your opinion clearly stated? Do you have 2-3 supporting details per paragraph?

8. Step 3: EDIT! Edit for clarity. Does your writing make sense? (yes...spelling counts!) Is your tone appropriate for an adult reader? Are capitals, periods, commas and question marks in the right place? Did you fill the whole space? (no more than 2 blank lines at the end...)