aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	English as second language
What age group	Year or Grade 7
What topic	Opinion writing = sports and hobbies
Quantity	1
Any other preferences

Kickoff Your Writing: Exploring Opinions on Sports and Hobbies

Introduction

Welcome to today's lesson on Opinion Writing! To get us started, let's dive into a fun and engaging activity that will set the stage for our writing journey. Are you ready?

Activity: The Sports & Hobbies Debate!

Step 1: Form Teams

Begin by dividing the class into small teams of four or five. Each team will represent a different sport or hobby:

• Team Soccer
• Team Basketball
• Team Dance
• Team Video Gaming
• Team Crafting

Step 2: Choose Your Side

Each team will decide whether their sport or hobby is the best or not the best. Use the next few minutes to discuss among your teammates and come up with reasons for your position.

Step 3: Prepare Your Arguments

You’ll have 10 minutes to prepare a brief argument supporting your team’s position. Make sure to include at least three key reasons! Here are some prompts to consider:

• What unique benefits does your sport or hobby offer?
• How does it promote teamwork or individual skills?
• Why is it enjoyable to participate in or watch?

Step 4: The Great Debate

Next, we’ll hold a class debate. Each team will have 2 minutes to present their arguments, and then we will open the floor for rebuttals.

Be respectful and listen carefully to what your classmates have to say. After the debate, we will reflect on the different opinions expressed.

Step 5: Opinion Writing Task

Finally, after the debate, it's time to put your thoughts into writing! You will write a 5-paragraph opinion piece on your favourite sport or hobby, using the arguments discussed in your teams as a base.

Claim: Clearly state your opinion (e.g., “I believe video gaming is the best hobby.”)
Reasons: Use at least three reasons to support your claim.
Examples: Give examples or anecdotes to strengthen your argument.
Counterargument: Acknowledge a possible counterargument and refute it.
Conclusion: Summarise your opinions and end with a strong statement.

Wrap-Up

This lesson not only helps you practise opinion writing, but also encourages critical thinking and teamwork. By debating different viewpoints, you’re building essential skills that will help you articulate your thoughts more clearly in writing!

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Ready to tackle your writing? Grab your pens, and let’s get those ideas down on paper!