On-Demand 12

Writing Situation:
Because of the risk of accidents, many states require motorcyclists and bikers to wear helmets on the road. Some people think this is a good law. Others disagree and say it is unfair to motorcycle and bicycle owners.
Writing Directions:
Write a letter to the editor of the newspaper stating your opinion about the law which requires motorcyclists and bike riders to wear helmets. Explain why you think this is a good law or unfair law.

• informative
• opinion
• narrative

Writing Situation:
Our school district has changed its policy on snacks sold to students. This change has caused some schools to stop selling snacks all together.
Writing Directions:
Decide if selling snacks in school is a principal presenting your opinion. Use facts and details to support your opinion.

• informative
• opinion
• narrative

Writing Situation:
“Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve,” said Martin Luther King, Jr. According to Dr. King, greatness is not inside a person- greatness lies in what a person does for other people.
Writing Directions:
Think about a time when you helped someone. Write a letter to a friend telling about a time when you helped someone or volunteered to help a cause. Be sure to include all relevant details about serving others, for example, babysitting, tutoring siblings, mowing neighbor’s yard, etc.

• informative
• opinion
• narrative

Writing Situation:
When your teacher says, “Give me five!” You are expected to stop talking, sit in your seat correctly, and listen to what he or she has to say. The reason we need to be still and listen is so that we will understand what is expected of us.
Writing Directions:
Think about a time you really listened to your teacher and were able to meet the expectations given because you listened. Write a narrative telling about this time and how listening helped you meet those expectations. Use sensory details and concrete words to describe this event.

• informative
• opinion
• narrative

Writing Situation:
Your town is a growing community and is in the process of deciding if a parking garage should be built downtown. Some people believe it will be an eyesore and is not needed. Others say a parking garage will help traffic move more smoothly and encourage people to shop on the square. At the last town hall meeting, only 15 community members came to vote on the matter. Your town’s government was very frustrated and disappointed at the lack of attendance.
Writing Directions:
In a letter to the editor for your local newspaper, explain the importance of participating in local government to your community.

• informative
• opinion
• narrative

Writing Situation:
National Safety Week is coming. The school newspaper is going to print stories about safety issues and concerns.
Writing Directions:
Write a letter to the editor about the three most important safety rules in the classroom. Be sure to explain how each rule contributes to the overall safety and well being of our student body.

• informative
• opinion
• narrative