OSSLT - Ontario Secondary School Literacy Writing an Opinion Piece Questions and Answers 2

Question 1

A student writes an opinion piece about school cafeteria food. Which is the strongest thesis statement?

Accepted Answer

School cafeterias should exclusively offer nutritious meals because student health directly impacts academic performance and long-term well-being.

Answer

School cafeterias have food.

Answer

Some people like healthy food and some don't.

Answer

I think maybe schools could try having healthier food sometimes.

Question 2

A student writes: 'Everyone knows that longer school days are better.' Why is this problematic?

Accepted Answer

It uses a hasty generalization and states opinion as fact

Answer

It is too short

Answer

It mentions school hours, which is off-topic

Answer

The grammar is incorrect

Question 3

Which best demonstrates addressing a counterargument?

Accepted Answer

Some argue uniforms limit self-expression; however, reduced bullying and increased unity outweigh this concern.

Answer

People who disagree are wrong.

Answer

I don't need to address other opinions.

Answer

There are no valid arguments against my position.

Question 4

A student's opinion piece cites: 'Studies show community gardens reduce neighbourhood crime by up to 15%.' What role does this play?

Accepted Answer

It provides evidence-based support

Answer

It serves as the thesis

Answer

It is an emotional appeal

Answer

It introduces an unrelated topic

Question 5

Which concluding sentence is most effective for an opinion piece about second-language education?

Accepted Answer

By embracing second-language education, Ontario can prepare its young people for success in a multilingual world.

Answer

In conclusion, that's what I think about languages.

Answer

Languages are interesting.

Answer

Some people agree with me and some don't.

Question 6

A student uses the phrase 'Obviously, everyone agrees that screens are destroying our youth.' What TWO problems does this have?

Accepted Answer

Uses false consensus ('everyone agrees') and loaded language ('destroying our youth')

Answer

Too long and difficult vocabulary

Answer

Grammatically incorrect and poorly punctuated

Answer

Too formal for an opinion piece