Transitions for Claims, Counterclaims and Reasons

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.

Use transitions such as critics point out and to be sure, with examples from one argument on storing phones in class.

Yes. We made it for 8th Grade opinion writing, and it works the same at home or at school. At home a student can print it and keep it with their school work. Teachers print a copy per student or one for the whole room, whichever the day needs.

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.