Opinion articles. Teacher's sample

Opinion articles present the writer’s personal opinion concerning the topic, clearly stated and supported by reasons and/or examples. The opposing viewpoint and reason can be included, together with an argument that shows that it is an unconvincing viewpoint.  The writer’s opinion is usually included in the introduction, and summarised or restated in the conclusion.

A good opinion article should consist of

·   An introductory paragraph in which you clearly state the topic to be discussed (+ your opinion).

·   A main body, in which points are clearly stated in separate paragraphs and exemplified or justified. An opposite point of view can also be presented.

·   A closing paragraph summarising the main points of the essay, in which you (re)state your opinion.

Important points to consider

·   Before you begin writing, make a list of the points you will present.

·   Present each point in a separate paragraph. A well-developed paragraph contains a clear topic sentence, which summarises the contents of the paragraph, as well as clear justification, explanation or example in support of the point presented.

·   Do not use informal style (e.g. contracted forms, colloquial language, informal abbreviations, etc).

Some good advice

·   Check the assessment criteria your teacher will use to evaluate your written assignment.

·   Be careful with presentation: blank space around the text, neat handwriting, no crossings-out …

·   Use appropriate linking words/phrases to link paragraphs, as well as to join sentences within paragraphs.

·   Skip ONE line between ALL the paragraphs.

·   If you use a Word Processor, check mistakes with a spellchecker. 

Revise your essay once your teacher has given it back to you. If you have questions about it, ask her

Why should we have good manners?

Good manners are essential to live happily among people. Without good manners we would only be slightly more civilised than animals.

To a certain extent good manners enable us to tolerate the disagreeable attitudes of others.  Nowadays in society you can find people of various cultural, racial, religious and professional backgrounds. Therefore we require great powers of endurance and social skills.

There is another factor to consider – Having good manners is synonymous with respecting others. Our speech and habits as well as our behaviour should not hurt the feelings of others or cause them any inconvenience. In addition, we should not talk badly about others or boast about our achievements or personal possessions. Furthermore, even if we are angry or upset,  we must try to use words in such a way that others are not offended.

However, some people feel that good manners hide our true feelings and so they are indicative of insincere or hypocritical behaviour.  I totally disagree with that view, as I believe that showing our true feelings often entails being offensive or disrespectful, which is counterproductive in our relationship with others.

To sum up, if we have good manners, we will have more friends and well-wishers. We will also have fewer conflicts with others, and are likely to encourage more respectful behaviour. In other words, we can lead a happier life.

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