Standard: 1.W.1 – Write opinion pieces in which they introduce the topic or name the book they are writing about, state an opinion, supply a reason for the opinion, and provide some sense of closure.
Grade level: Grade 1
Subject: English Language Arts
Domain: Writing
Teacher Overview
This standard focuses on helping first graders write opinion pieces. Students will learn to introduce the topic or book they are writing about, state their opinion, provide a reason for their opinion, and conclude their writing. This skill is essential as it lays the foundation for more advanced writing tasks in later grades. Students should have a foundational understanding of sentence structure, be able to express simple opinions verbally, and recognize the difference between opinions and facts.
After mastering this standard, students will be able to write more detailed opinion pieces, providing multiple reasons and more structured conclusions. This will prepare them for more complex writing tasks in higher grades.
Common Misconception 1
A common misconception is that students might think stating an opinion is the same as stating a fact. This is incorrect because opinions are personal beliefs or preferences, whereas facts are objective truths.
Intervention 1
An evidence-based intervention includes using visual aids and examples to show the difference between opinions and facts. Have students practice sorting statements into ‘fact’ and ‘opinion’ categories.
Common Misconception 2
Another misconception is that students might believe they only need to state their opinion without giving reasons. This is incorrect because providing reasons strengthens their argument and makes their writing more convincing.
Intervention 2
Encourage students to always give at least one reason for their opinion. Use graphic organizers to help them structure their thoughts and practice writing opinion pieces with supported reasons.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Students should have basic sentence formation skills, understand the concept of an opinion, and be able to express simple preferences verbally.
Subsequent Knowledge
Students will develop the ability to write more complex opinion pieces, including multiple reasons for their opinions and more detailed conclusions.
Instructional Activities
- Have students write a letter to a friend about their favorite book, including reasons why they like it.
- Create a classroom poster where each student writes about their favorite toy and why they like it.
- Watch a short movie or TV show and have students write a review, stating their opinion and why they feel that way.
- Ask students to write a journal entry about their favorite holiday or event, providing reasons for their preference.
