1. Writing A Series of opinion Paragraphs
Op-ed pieces/persuasive arguments in 5 paragraphs

2. Step 1; Find an issue or a question you want to (or have to) answer -- Choose one of these to see an as example
For example, today on VICE, an article was published about why Trudeau legalizing marijuana is terrifying to Canadians (granted the article thinks these reasons are ridiculous, but none the less, exist). Interestingly enough, today on Rabble, another article condoned the legalization of marijuana for sale and talked about our progressive nature as a National leader.
Remembrance Day brings about the use of poppies, and while many perpetuate and promote the buying/donating of the small symbol to recognize efforts of our troops, others still see the poppy as a symbol of a communist regime, mandating the way in which we pay our repect.

3. Step 2: Choose your side
For the topic: PROS (at least 3 reasons)
Against the topic: CONS (at least 3 reasons)
Tax dollars will come from the marijuana and be used to put money into infrastructure, education and health care
Instead of police being used to reduce marijuana sales in the streets, their time can be used to address larger issues, also crime rates will decrease
Safety for recreational users previously buying from independent dealers
Abuse of the substance (gateway) or easier accessibility which could lead to over use
What happens to the street dealers? - easier access for underage users

4. Topic Sentence: Marijuana and its legalization has been an issue that has divided Canadians in recent years.
Gives recognition to both sides of the argument:
Some citizens feel that legalization has more positives than negatives and look forward to the economic boost, whilst others believe the legalization of the substance carries more risk than reward.
State your opinion: In my opinion, the legalization of marijuana has many potential benefits to the country and its use and purchase should become legal in Canada.
Briefly outline your examples: Tax dollars will come from the marijuana and be used to put money into infrastructure, education and health care, instead of police being used to reduce marijuana sales in the streets, their time can be used to address larger issues, also crime rates will decrease and safety for recreational users previously buying from independent dealers will no longer be an issue.
Transition to your 1st body paragraph: The legalization of marijuana has many pluses, perhaps the most noticeable will come from the money able to be dispersed through the country.

5. 1st Body Paragraph:
Intro sentence of this point: In Ontario, and Canada as a whole, more money generated from the sale of marijuana could be used to benefit many areas of society that are lacking.
First example of this point with EVIDENCE: As a student in Ontario, the lack of funding for education affects my ability to learn, more money in the education system would be beneficial for students and for future generations. In class, the textbooks are old and outdated, teachers are using technology they had in school and not things that are relevant for today.
Explanation: **depending on the strength of the argument you may have a few of these** More money in the education system would also mean a higher graduating rate, as well as more students pursuing some type of post secondary learning. This increased rate would mean better long term, high paying jobs that would put more money into the economy in future years. Also, tuitions would decrease which means more accessibility and increased motivation for students.
Conclusion/transition to body paragraph 2: Although education is the area the most directly affects me in terms of funding, money could be used in health care and infrastructure, additionally legalization would mean a more appropriate use of money in the legal system.

6. 2nd body paragraph: Intro sentence of this point:
First example of this point with EVIDENCE:
Explanation: **depending on the strength of the argument you may have a few of these**
Conclusion/transition to body paragraph 3:

7. 3rd body paragraph: Intro sentence of this point:
First example of this point WITH EVIDENCE:
Explanation: **depending on the strength of the argument you may have a few of these**
Conclusion/transition to conclusion:

8. Conclusion: Intro sentence: Briefly recap argument:
Recognition of the other side:
Solution:
Closing Sentence.

9. Final Product: combine all you previous work into their respective paragraphs.