Writing opinion paragraphs
Write a clear opinion paragraph: topic sentence, reasons, examples and a concluding sentence.
In this lesson you will
- Write a strong topic sentence
- Support opinions with reasons and examples
- Use opinion and linking phrases
Learn
Structure: (1) topic sentence with your opinion; (2) reason 1 + example; (3) reason 2 + example; (4) concluding sentence that restates your view in different words.
Opinion phrases: In my opinion, … / I strongly believe that… / From my point of view, … / It seems to me that…
Adding and giving examples: Firstly, … Secondly, … In addition, … For example, … For instance, … such as…
Concluding: For these reasons, … Overall, … That is why I believe… Avoid starting and ending with exactly the same sentence.
Examples
- In my opinion, cities should make public transport free.
- Firstly, it would reduce traffic. For example, when Tallinn made buses free, car use fell.
- For these reasons, I believe free transport would benefit everyone.
Vocabulary
topic sentence
the first sentence that states the main idea
support
give reasons or evidence for
restate
say again in different words
point of view
opinion
benefit
be good for
Practice
The topic sentence should…
Speaking
Give your opinion on “Should phones be banned in schools?” in the same structure: opinion, two reasons with examples, conclusion. 60 seconds.
Writing
Write an opinion paragraph (120–150 words): “Children should learn to cook at school.” Give two reasons with examples.
- ☐ Clear topic sentence
- ☐ Two reasons, each with an example
- ☐ Linking phrases
- ☐ Concluding sentence in new words
Lesson quiz
How many reasons does a typical B1 opinion paragraph include?
Review
Key points
- Topic sentence → reasons + examples → conclusion.
- Opinion, adding and example phrases.
- Restate in new words at the end.
What you learned
- ✓ I can write an opinion paragraph.
- ✓ I can support my opinion.
- ✓ I can conclude clearly.
Grammar reference: Conjunctions and linking words, Sentence structure and word order