Writing an opinion paragraph

The idea

State your opinion first, add reasons and a specific example, then close by returning to your position. Choose a neutral, respectful tone.

Examples

• I think our town needs more trees.
• They provide shade on hot days.
• For example, trees near the playground would make it cooler.
• In my opinion, students should help choose class projects.
• One reason is that they may feel more involved.
• For these reasons, I support a weekly market in our neighbourhood.

Watch out

A reason needs to explain your position; repeating the opinion does not support it.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the best option: Choose the phrase that states an opinion: ___, the library should open on Sundays. (In my opinion / For example)

   Show answer or example answer

   In my opinion

   In my opinion signals the writer’s position on Sunday opening.

2. Choose the best option: Choose the phrase that introduces a reason: ___, buses reduce traffic. (One reason is that / For these reasons)

   Show answer or example answer

   One reason is that

   One reason is that connects the position to the benefit of less traffic.

3. Choose the best option: Choose the phrase that introduces an example: ___, a shared garden can provide fresh vegetables. (For example / In my opinion)

   Show answer or example answer

   For example

   For example introduces a specific case involving a shared garden.

4. Choose the best option: Choose the phrase that concludes the argument: ___, our office should offer bicycle parking. (For these reasons / For example)

   Show answer or example answer

   For these reasons

   For these reasons brings the argument back to the proposed bicycle parking.

Use it today

Write a paragraph about a change you would like in your community. Give reasons and an example.