Standard: 4.W.1d – Provide a concluding statement or section related to the opinion presented.
Grade level: Grade 4
Subject: English Language Arts
Domain: Writing
Teacher Overview
This standard emphasizes the importance of crafting a strong conclusion in opinion writing. A well-written conclusion reinforces the writer’s opinion and provides the reader with a sense of closure. This skill is crucial as it helps students to organize their thoughts and present their arguments coherently. Students should be familiar with the basic structure of an opinion piece and understand the role of each part. They should be able to clearly state their opinion and support it with logical reasons and evidence.
Students will develop the ability to write cohesive and well-structured multi-paragraph essays, integrating summaries and reflections in their conclusions.
Common Misconception 1
Some students may think that a conclusion is just a restatement of their introduction. This is incorrect because a conclusion should not only restate the main points but also provide a final insight or reflection related to the opinion.
Intervention 1
Use mentor texts to show examples of effective conclusions. Have students practice writing conclusions that provide a final insight or reflection, not just a restatement of the introduction.
Common Misconception 2
Another common misconception is that a conclusion is unnecessary if all main points have been covered. This is incorrect because a conclusion is essential for reinforcing the opinion and providing closure to the reader.
Intervention 2
Explain the purpose of a conclusion and its role in reinforcing the opinion. Use graphic organizers to help students plan their conclusions and ensure they provide a sense of closure.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Students should understand the structure of an opinion piece, including the introduction, body, and the purpose of a conclusion. They should be able to identify and state their opinion clearly and support it with reasons and evidence.
Subsequent Knowledge
After mastering this standard, students will be able to craft more sophisticated conclusions in their writing, integrating summaries and reflections. They will also be prepared to create cohesive and well-structured multi-paragraph essays.
Instructional Activities
- Analyze mentor texts to identify effective conclusions.
- Use graphic organizers to plan and write conclusions.
- Peer review and provide feedback on each other’s conclusions.
- Practice writing conclusions for different types of opinion pieces.
- Create a checklist for writing effective conclusions.
