1. Literacy Test Preparation
Writing a Series of Paragraphs
(Opinion Writing)

2. Series of Paragraphs (5 paragraph format) Introduction Paragraph
Body Paragraph #1
Body Paragraph #2
Body Paragraph #3
Conclusion Paragraph
Transition Word

3. Literacy Test Task:
Write a minimum of three paragraphs expressing an opinion about the topic given
Develop your main idea with supporting details (proof, facts, examples etc.)
The audience: adults interested in your opinion
The lined space provided indicates the approximate length of writing expected

4. “Are cell phones necessary in teenagers’ lives?”
Example:
Topic:
“Are cell phones necessary in teenagers’ lives?”
Length:
Approximately 2 pages

5. What to do BEFORE you write:
Read all instructions carefully
Read the topic carefully
Identify all terms
Focus on qualifying words like “most”, “best”, “necessary”, “required”
Form an opinion about the topic

6. Brainstorm ideas about your topic in the Rough Notes section of your booklet
(Nothing you write in this space will be scored)
List reasons (supports) for your opinion as well as details, examples or facts to back them up
Identify which of these supports is the weakest, second strongest to strongest

7. Writing a series of paragraphs
Decide on the format of your answer
You can write using a minimum of 3 paragraphs, but you should write using the 5 paragraph format
Write your paragraphs in the third person voice
Do not use “I”, “I think” or “in my opinion”
Review your rough notes to decide what information will be written in which paragraph

8. Introduction Paragraph
Write a topic sentence- explain the topic or provide a definition if needed
Include an opinion statement (thesis)- state your opinion about the topic and list your 3 supports
Transition Word
Move your reader from your introduction to your first support by using words like: “first”, “firstly”, or “to begin”
Body Paragraph #1
Explain the weakest of your three supports
Include examples and specific details to emphasize your explanation
Explain how your support backs up your opinion

9. Transition Word Body Paragraph #2
Move your reader from the first body paragraph to the next support by using words like: “secondly”, “also”, or “next”
Body Paragraph #2
Explain the second strongest of your three supports
Include examples and specific details to emphasize your opinion
Explain how your support backs up your opinion
Move your reader from the second body paragraph to the third support by using words like: “thirdly”, “also”, or “finally”

10. Body Paragraph #3 Transition Word Conclusion Paragraph
Explain the strongest of your three supports
Include examples and specific details to emphasize your opinion
Explain how your support backs up your opinion
Transition Word
Move your reader from your last body paragraph to the conclusion by using words like: “in conclusion”, “to summarize” or “overall”
Conclusion Paragraph
Re-state or re-word your opinion statement (thesis)
Summarize your supports

11. Edit your work Review and edit all parts of your work
Check to see that you have responded to the topic fully and accurately
Make sure your response is properly organized
Correct any grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors

12. Credits Mary Nanavati – Principal Fletcher’s Meadow
Created by: Candice Lande, Fletcher’s Meadow
Susan Bell Louise Arbour SS