OSSLT - Ontario Secondary School Literacy Writing an Opinion Piece Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which of the following sentences provides the clearest and most effective statement of opinion for an essay?

Accepted Answer

Implementing a four-day school week would improve student well-being and academic focus.

Answer

Some people think that a four-day school week has benefits, while others point out the disadvantages.

Answer

A four-day school week is a controversial topic with various points to consider.

Answer

This opinion piece will explore the idea of a four-day school week for high school students.

Question 2

A student is writing an opinion piece arguing that their school should ban the sale of sugary drinks. Which of the following is the most persuasive piece of evidence to support this opinion?

Accepted Answer

A quote from a local doctor explaining the link between high sugar consumption and health problems in teenagers.

Answer

A personal story about how a friend once felt unwell after drinking too much soda.

Answer

A statement that many other schools in the province have already banned sugary drinks.

Answer

An observation that the line for the vending machine is often very long between classes.

Question 3

What is the primary purpose of the concluding paragraph in an opinion piece for the OSSLT?

Accepted Answer

To restate the main opinion and summarize the key supporting points.

Answer

To introduce a new supporting reason that was not previously mentioned.

Answer

To present the opposing side of the argument for the first time.

Answer

To ask a question that leaves the reader uncertain of the author's position.

Question 4

Scenario: You are writing an opinion piece with the thesis: 'All students should be required to take a course in financial literacy to graduate.' Which of the following points would be considered a counter-argument?

Accepted Answer

A financial literacy course would add another mandatory credit, potentially limiting students' ability to take elective courses they are passionate about.

Answer

Learning to budget and save money is an essential life skill for young adults.

Answer

Many students enter adulthood without understanding concepts like debt, credit scores, or investing.

Answer

Schools have a responsibility to prepare students for the practical challenges they will face after graduation.

Question 5

Which of the following is a key requirement for the body paragraphs of an OSSLT opinion piece?

Accepted Answer

Each paragraph should develop a separate supporting reason with specific details or examples.

Answer

Each paragraph must begin with a question to the reader.

Answer

Each paragraph should discuss both the pros and cons of the main topic.

Answer

Each paragraph must be exactly the same length as the introduction.

Question 6

When writing an opinion piece, why is it important to clearly state your opinion in the introductory paragraph?

Accepted Answer

To provide a clear focus and roadmap for the reader to follow throughout the essay.

Answer

To surprise the reader with your position at the very end of the essay.

Answer

To show that you have not made a final decision on the issue.

Answer

To fill space before getting to the main arguments in the body paragraphs.