Textual Evidence

Forming Opinions Using Textual Evidence

By Kimberly Gibson

Have you ever tried to win an argument with just your feelings? If so, how did it go? Chances are that it did not work out too well. Have you ever thought about when you read a book that you form an opinion of the text while reading?

Open Ended

Read the following two statements and determine which one has a stronger argument.

A) Outdoor recess should not be an option for elementary students. I do not like outdoor recess because the weather can be unpredictable, therefore, it makes outdoor recess not fun.

B) Outdoor recess should be required because it allows students to exercise and get fresh air. It should also be allowed because it educates kids to make friends and socialize, while also teaching teamwork when it comes to group activities.

Which statement has a stronger argument? How do you know that the statement is supported by well-rounded claims to strengthen the argument?

Please click the link below to watch the audio video of a book where a young boy is trying to convince his mom to buy him a pet using his opinions.



Link to audio video:
https://youtu.be/mhcCglRJwfM?feature=shared



Link to flip book without audio:

https://fliphtml5.com/tyfjf/ecya/basic

Now that you have watched the video, let's talk about forming opinions using textual evidence.

We clearly saw how Alex used his opinions to try to persuade his mom to let him have an iguana. By now, you should have formed your own opinion about the book. For instance, an opinion that I formed is that Alex is so determined to have an iguana that he tells his mom that he would be a better son to try to persuade her to let him get one. I am able to back up my opinion by using text from the book on page 2 where he tells his mom that she will never have to see the iguana since it will be in his room, and also on page 6 where he tells his mom that he will feed the iguana every day and keep the cage clean.

Open Ended

Question:

Do you think Alex deserves an iguana?

State your opinion and list 3 reasons why or why not. Use examples from the text.

I Wanna Iguana Pages 1-8 - Flip PDF Download | FlipHTML5