Unit Plan 10 (Grade 1 ELA): Launching Opinion Writing
Empower first graders to write with voice and purpose in this opinion writing unit. Students learn to state opinions clearly, give strong reasons using because/and, and craft closings that fit—building confidence through speaking, listening, and writing practice.
Focus: Stating an opinion; reasons; closing
Grade Level: 1
Subject Area: English Language Arts (Writing • Speaking/Listening • Language)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 45–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
Writers share what they think and why. This week launches opinion writing with a simple frame: Opinion → Reason(s) → Closing. Students learn to choose a topic or book, state an opinion clearly, give at least one strong reason (aim for two), and finish with a short closing. Whole-class discussions model listening, turn-taking, and adding on so ideas become clearer before drafting.
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to…
- Write an opinion piece that names a topic/book, states an opinion, gives one or more reasons, and provides a simple closing (W.1.1).
- Participate in collaborative conversations with peers and adults (rules for listening, taking turns, staying on topic) to generate ideas/reasons (SL.1.1).
- Use basic grammar and usage when speaking/writing: complete sentences with pronouns, verbs, and conjunctions like because/and; apply capitals, spaces, and end punctuation (L.1.1; supports L.1.2).
Standards Alignment — CCSS Grade 1
- W.1.1 Write opinion pieces in which they introduce the topic or name the book, state an opinion, supply a reason or reasons, and provide some sense of closure.
- SL.1.1 Participate in collaborative conversations with diverse partners about grade 1 topics and texts with peers and adults in small and larger groups.
- L.1.1 Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
Success Criteria — student language
- I can name my topic/book and say my opinion in one clear sentence.
- I can give at least one reason (better = two) that supports my opinion using because or and.
- I can end with a closing that fits (e.g., “That’s why ___ is the best.”).
- I can use complete sentences, capitals, spaces, and end marks.
- In discussion, I listen, take turns, and stay on topic.