OSSLT Writing an Opinion Piece 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When writing an opinion piece for the OSSLT, which element is MOST important to include in your opening paragraph?
- A list of all the evidence you will use
- A clear statement of your position on the topic (Correct answer)
- Background information about the history of the issue
- A question that the reader must answer
Correct answer: A clear statement of your position on the topic
The opening paragraph must contain a clear thesis or position statement so the reader immediately knows your stance.
Question 2: A student writes: 'Some people think uniforms are good, and some people think they are bad.' What is the main problem with this as an opinion piece opening?
- It is too short to be effective
- It does not take a clear position (Correct answer)
- It mentions too many people
- It lacks descriptive language
Correct answer: It does not take a clear position
An opinion piece must state the writer's own position clearly, not simply acknowledge that opinions differ.
Question 3: Which transitional phrase is BEST suited for introducing a supporting argument in an opinion piece?
- On the other hand
- Furthermore (Correct answer)
- In conclusion
- For example, some disagree
Correct answer: Furthermore
'Furthermore' signals that an additional supporting point is being added, strengthening the argument.
Question 4: On the OSSLT, an opinion piece is scored on ideas, organization, and conventions. Which description BEST defines 'conventions'?
- The strength and relevance of your arguments
- The logical flow of paragraphs from introduction to conclusion
- Correct spelling, grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure (Correct answer)
- The variety of vocabulary used throughout the piece
Correct answer: Correct spelling, grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure
Conventions refer to the mechanical rules of writing, including spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
Question 5: A student wants to argue that schools should extend lunch breaks. Which piece of evidence is MOST persuasive?
- 'I personally feel that lunch is too short.'
- 'Studies show students who have longer lunch periods score higher on afternoon assessments.' (Correct answer)
- 'Many students agree that lunch should be longer.'
- 'Lunch is an important part of the school day.'
Correct answer: 'Studies show students who have longer lunch periods score higher on afternoon assessments.'
Research-based evidence with specific outcomes is more persuasive than personal feelings or vague statements.
Question 6: What is the purpose of a concluding paragraph in an OSSLT opinion piece?
- To introduce a new argument the writer forgot to mention
- To restate the thesis and reinforce the main supporting points (Correct answer)
- To list all the counterarguments and refute them
- To ask the reader a series of reflective questions
Correct answer: To restate the thesis and reinforce the main supporting points
The conclusion should restate your position and summarize the main points without introducing new ideas.
Question 7: Which sentence demonstrates the MOST formal tone appropriate for an OSSLT opinion piece?
- It's totally obvious that everyone should recycle more stuff.
- Recycling is, like, super important for our planet's future.
- The implementation of mandatory recycling programs would significantly benefit environmental sustainability. (Correct answer)
- Recycling is great and we should all do it more, right?
Correct answer: The implementation of mandatory recycling programs would significantly benefit environmental sustainability.
Formal writing avoids contractions, slang, and casual phrasing, using precise academic language instead.
OSSLT Writing an Opinion Piece 2
When writing an opinion piece for the OSSLT, which element is MOST important to include in your opening paragraph?