What animal would make the best class pet? Write your opinion and give reasons.
Standards alignment
CCSS W.1.1–W.2.1
Suggested length
120–180
Skill focus
State an opinion, give connected reasons, and finish with a clear ending.
Model response
A small fish would be the best class pet. First, a fish is quiet while we read and work. It will not bark or run between our desks. Second, everyone can help. One student can sprinkle food, and another can check that the water is clean. A bright fish also gives us something peaceful to watch when we need a short break. A fish cannot sit in our laps, but it can still teach us to care for a living thing. That is why our class should choose a fish.
The first sentence answers the prompt immediately. Each reason stays on topic, and the final sentence returns to the writer’s opinion.