1. Opinion essay
Writing 2203

2. Topic:
Do you agree or disagree with the School Districts decision to limit what you can or can post on social media sites when it comes to school related activities?

3. Get the facts
Before you can decide which side you are on you need to get all the facts so you can make an informed decision.
Then pick a side and find 3 arguments to support your opinion.

4. Ideas to consider when writing
Use first person point of view because this is YOUR opinion
Express your opinion, and then base it on factual, researched or first-hand information
Be timely, controversial, but not outrageous. Be the voice of reason.
Be personal and conversational; it can help you make your point

5. Ideas Continued
Have a clear editorial viewpoint – come down hard on one side of the issue. Do not go back and forth, you have to be either for or against this new policy.
Provide insight, understanding: share your opinion
Near the end, clearly re-state your position on this topic.

6. Thesis Statement
An opinion essay exists to prove your main point – your thesis. 
This should be clearly stated in your opening paragraph. Don’t leave the reader to guess what your position is on the issue – make a clear stand.

7. Thesis
Your thesis statement is telling the reader (me) what your opinion of the new social media rule is and the three examples you will use to support your opinion.

8. Brainstorm Reasons the new policy is good: Protects students
Protects teachers
Keeps you out of trouble
May help reduce cyber bullying
Protecting your future when it comes to background checks for jobs
Keeps you safe while online

9. Brainstorm
Reasons the new policy is bad:
Student’s can’t videotape and share important events with friends without permission.
Others?

10. Sample Introduction
The new social media policy, implemented by the school district has been put in place to protect both teachers and students alike. The social media policy is, in my opinion, very important because it protects me as a student, it may help stop cyber bullying and there are serious consequences for those who break the rules.

11. Body paragraphs
Develop your argument in the body of your essay. Each paragraph should contain a single, clear idea that support your point of view. You can use examples and illustration, cause-and-effect reasoning, comparison/contrast or other methods of development to support your argument.

12. Format Introduction including thesis
Body par 1- discuss your first point (protects students)
Body par 2- discuss your second point may help stop cyber bullying
Body par 3- serious consequences for those who don’t listen
Conclusion- Sum up the main points