Second Grade English: Opinion Writing: Stating an Opinion with Reasons and Proof

Everyone in the world has opinions about what games are the most fun, which books are the most exciting, what foods taste best, and how schools should be run. But in writing, simply shouting your opinion like "PIZZA IS THE BEST!" is not enough to convince anyone. To be an effective persuasive writer, you must clearly state your opinion, support it with convincing reasons, and back up those reasons with concrete proof and examples. In this chapter, you will master the O-R-E-O opinion writing formula, learn how to craft strong opinion statements, and discover how to write persuasive reviews that win people over.

The O-R-E-O Opinion Writing Formula

The O-R-E-O formula is an unforgettable blueprint designed to help you construct persuasive paragraphs that convince your readers.

+-----------------------------------------------------------------+
|                    THE O-R-E-O OPINION FORMULA                  |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------+
|                                                                 |
|   [ O ] - OPINION:    State your clear belief or preference!    |
|   [ R ] - REASON:     Explain WHY you believe your opinion!     |
|   [ E ] - EXAMPLES:   Give concrete proof, facts, or stories!   |
|   [ O ] - OPINION:    Restate your opinion in fresh new words!  |
|                                                                 |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------+

Step 1: Stating a Clear Opinion (O)

Your opening sentence must state your opinion boldly without hesitation. Avoid wishy-washy statements like "I guess dogs are okay." Take a clear stand! Strong Opinion Sentence Starters: "In my opinion, ..." "I strongly believe that ..." "Without a doubt, the best ..." Example: "In my opinion, Charlotte's Web is the most heartwarming chapter book every second grader should read."

Step 2: Providing Convincing Reasons (R)

A reason answers the question: "Why do you feel this way?" Great opinion writing provides at least two or three distinct reasons. Use connecting words to introduce your reasons: "One reason is that ..." "In addition, ..." "Another important reason is ..." Example: "One reason is that the characters demonstrate true friendship and loyalty."

Step 3: Giving Examples and Proof (E)

A reason without an example is just another opinion! An example provides specific evidence from real life or from the book that proves your reason is true. Example: "For instance, Charlotte the spider stays up all night spinning words into her web to save Wilbur the pig from being harmed." That specific story detail proves the loyalty!

Step 4: Restating Your Opinion (O)

Wrap up your persuasive paragraph with a strong closing sentence that restates your core claim and leaves the reader with a final thought: "For all these reasons, Charlotte's Web is truly a masterpiece that will touch every reader's heart."

The Complete O-R-E-O Review in Action

Read how all four pieces unite into a convincing review: " In my opinion, dogs make the absolute best family pets. First, dogs are incredibly loyal companions who greet you at the door with wagging tails every afternoon. For example, my dog Barnaby always curls up by my feet whenever I feel down. In addition, dogs encourage families to exercise outdoors. For instance, walking a dog in the park gives everyone fresh air and fun playtime. For all these wonderful reasons, adopting a friendly dog is the best decision a family can make."

Practice Exercises

Exercise 1: Identify which part of the O-R-E-O formula each sentence represents (Opinion, Reason, Example, or Restated Opinion): Sentence A: "For instance, recess gives our brains a necessary break so we can concentrate better during afternoon math." Sentence B: "In my opinion, our elementary school should have twenty extra minutes of daily outdoor recess." Sentence C: "One major reason is that physical play improves students' focus in class." Sentence D: "For these reasons, extending outdoor recess would greatly benefit every student."

Exercise 2: Write a four-sentence persuasive paragraph using the O-R-E-O formula about your favorite outdoor activity.

Exercise Solutions

Solution to Exercise 1: Sentence A is Example (provides specific proof about afternoon math). Sentence B is Opinion (bold opening statement of belief). Sentence C is Reason (explains why). Sentence D is Restated Opinion (wraps up and restates).

Solution to Exercise 2: A student could write: In my opinion, riding bicycles is the most exciting outdoor activity. One major reason is that biking allows you to explore distant neighborhood parks quickly. For example, my brother and I can ride along the river trail all the way to the playground in just ten minutes. For these reasons, bicycling is the ultimate way to enjoy the great outdoors.