The core of writing a persuasive piece is supporting your opinion with three reasons, or three main points.  In general, students have trouble writing three reasons.  They can often write one or two, but lose heart when they find out they have to write three.  So, I turned this concept into a game!

It’s a great way for children to practice organizing their thoughts.

Common Core State Standards

NOTE:  This lesson can address the following Common Core State Standards:  CCSS.ELA.LITERACY.W.K.1, W.1.1, W.2.1, W.3.1, W.3.1.A, W.3.1.B, W.4.1, W.4.1.A, W.4.1.B, W.5.1, W.5.1.A and W.5.1.B.

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Setting Up the Game

I divide the group into teams of 3.

Smaller Groups

If the group is relatively small (9 or less) I divide the classroom whiteboard into 3-4 sections where they can write.

Larger Groups

For larger groups, or if I don’t have a classroom whiteboard, I give each team of three a small white board, dry erase marker and a sock to serve as an eraser.  You can purchase a class pack on Amazon*.

I explain to the children that I’m going to make a statement.

Race to Write Three Reasons!

They have to race to write three reasons that support the statement.  Their reasons have to have a capital letter, spacing and punctuation at the end.  I don’t stress spelling in this game but you certainly can if you want to.

When campers complete their three reasons, they don’t shout them out.  They just hold up their whiteboard.  I give a quick glance to make sure their reasons are cohesive with the statement.  If so, I give them a thumbs up.  If not, I’ll point out what doesn’t fit so they can replace it.

Students Read Their Three Reasons

If you have time, it’s worth letting kids share their reasons each turn.  One, they love to!  Second, sharing the supportive statements helps solidify the concept of main idea and three supporting points.

Continue play until your allotted time runs out!

Statements to Use

The statements that I have used for this game are below.  You can use these or come up with sentences relative to what you’re working on!

There are many things children can do to:

Help their parents

Clean the environment

Learn another language

Show respect

Help elderly people

Earn money

Exercise

Keep in touch with family and friends

There are many things children can do besides use electronics.

Print the Instructions

Here are the instructions for you to print out and use.

We played this after completing the Persuasive Letter-I’m Ready For a Pet! lesson.