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

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.
Identify all terms
Focus on qualifying words like “most”,
“best”, “necessary”, “required”
Form an opinion about the topic

Brainstorm ideas about your topic in the
Rough Notes section of your booklet
(Nothing you write in this space will be scored)


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

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”

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”

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

Transition Word
 Move your reader from the second body paragraph to
the third support by using words like: “thirdly”, “also”,
or “finally”

Body Paragraph #3
 Explain the strongest of your three supports
 Include examples and specific details to emphasize
your opinion
 Explain how your support backs up your opinion

Transition Word
 Move your reader from your last body paragraph to
the conclusion by using words like: “in conclusion”,
“to summarize” or “overall”

Conclusion Paragraph
 Re-state or re-word your opinion statement (thesis)
 Summarize your supports

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



Mary Nanavati – Principal Fletcher’s Meadow
Created by: Candice Lande, Fletcher’s
Meadow
Susan Bell Louise Arbour SS