Literacy Test Preparation

1. Literacy Test Preparation Writing a Series of Paragraphs (Opinion Writing)

2. Series of Paragraphs (5 paragraph format)

3. Literacy Test Task: • 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

4. Example: • Topic: “Are cell phones necessary in teenagers’ lives?” • Length: Approximately 2 pages

5. What to do BEFORE you write: • Read all instructions carefully • Read the topic carefully • Identify all terms • Focus on qualifying words like “most”, “best”, “necessary”, “required” • Form an opinion about the topic

6. 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

7. Writing a series of paragraphs • 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

8. 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

9. 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”

10. 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

11. Edit your work • 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

12. Credits • Mary Nanavati – Principal Fletcher’s Meadow • Created by: Candice Lande, Fletcher’s Meadow • Susan Bell Louise Arbour SS