Earth Day Argument on a Fee for Shopping Bags

Use a topic sheet for a quick argument, or an organizer before a full essay. Score drafts with the rubric, and keep the transitions handout and the PEEL paragraph model nearby while students write.

Sort eight note cards on single-use bag fees by side, then write a 20 line argument that answers the counterclaim. The directions on the page read: Read the note, the Earth Day topic, and all eight note cards. Complete Steps 1 and 2 on this page. Then write your argument on page 2.

Yes, both. We made it for 8th grade opinion writing, and it works the same at home or at school. At home, a student can work through it alone and then go over it with you, which shows quickly what is solid and what needs another look. In class it works as independent practice, homework or a warm-up, and you can print one copy or a full set.

Write a one sentence claim, list two or three reasons, and give each one evidence and reasoning that explains how the evidence supports it. Then name a counterclaim and plan a rebuttal. Summer Argument on Limiting Teen Screen Time outlines a full five paragraph essay this way.

Relevant evidence proves the claim itself, not just the topic the claim is about. Cut Evidence That Does Not Support the Claim gives paragraphs where two sentences stay on topic but do not prove the claim, and students cross them out.

These sheets include school topics such as a four-day school week, recess for 8th graders and students helping write the dress code, plus community topics such as a fee for shopping bags and public internet in parks. Would you rather topics such as a rewind or preview button make lighter warm ups.

Use complete sentences and precise words, and leave out slang, contractions and exaggeration. Valentine's Day Argument on Middle School Class Parties has students rewrite phrases such as kind of dumb in formal words.