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Opinion Essay: Prewriting


The first step in writing is having something to write about. You'll need to choose a topic and plan your essay before you are ready to write.


1. Find a Subject

If you do not have an assigned subject, you can find one using the "Basics of Life List." Watch the prewriting tutorial for more information on the "Basics of Life List."


2. Select a Topic

Use a cluster to narrow your general subject to a specific topic. Watch the prewriting tutorial for more information on clusters.


3. Write an Opinion Statement

Write a sentence that names your topic and gives your opinion about it.


4. Gather Supporting Reasons

Use a supporting reasons table to gather supporting ideas for your opinion.


5. Brainstorm Objections

Use an objections chart to consider and answer objections to your opinion.


6. Outline Your Essay

Write your opinion.
List main reasons that support the essay's focus.
Write a topic sentence for each main reason.
Write supporting details for each main reason.
List objections.
Give a response to each objection.

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