Writing a Series of Paragraphs
(Opinion Writing)
Series of Paragraphs
(5 paragraph format)
Introduction Paragraph
Body Paragraph #1
Body Paragraph #2
Transition
Word
Transition
Word
Transition
Word
Body Paragraph #3
Conclusion Paragraph
Transition
Word
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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

Topic:
“Are cell phones necessary in
teenagers’ lives?”

Length:
Approximately 2 pages
1.
Read all instructions carefully
2.
Read the topic carefully
3.
Form an opinion about the topic


Identify all terms
Focus on qualifying words like “most”,
“best”, “necessary”, “required”

Brainstorm ideas about your topic in the
Rough Notes section of your booklet
(Nothing you write in this space will be scored)

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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

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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

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”
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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

Transition Word
 Move your reader from the first body paragraph to the
next support by using words like: “secondly”, “also”, or
“next”
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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
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Transition Word
 Move your reader from the second body paragraph to
the third support by using words like: “thirdly”, “also”,
or “finally”
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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
 Move your reader from your last body paragraph to
the conclusion by using words like: “in conclusion”,
“to summarize” or “overall”
 Re-state or re-word your opinion statement (thesis)
 Summarize your supports
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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
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Mary Nanavati – Principal Fletcher’s Meadow
Created by: Candice Lande, Fletcher’s
Meadow
Susan Bell Louise Arbour SS