two children packing backpacks with an adult
Illustration by Tom Garrett (Art); Shutterstock.com (All Other Images)
Debate,

Who Should Be in Charge of Your Backpack?

Sam says grown-ups should be in charge of kids’ backpacks. Ana says kids should be in charge. What do you think?

From the September 2022 Issue
Featured Skill: Write Opinion Pieces, Participate in Conversations,
Topic: English Language Arts, Social-emotional learning,
Common Core Standards
  • Casel Social-emotional Learning Focus Relationship Skills: Communicating effectively Common Core Standards W.2. Write opinion pieces RI.2.8 Describe how reasons support the points the author makes in a text RI.2.10 Read grade-2-appropriate texts SL.2 Participate in conversations about grade-2 texts

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Grown-Ups!

First, it’s hard to remember what I have to take to school! I live with my grandma. She can help me.  

Next, I have a lot to do in the mornings. I want my grandma to pack my backpack for me. 

Last, I’m just a kid. I will be in charge of my backpack in a few years!

Kids!

First, kids forget to bring things to school sometimes. But that is OK!  

Next, I know what I need to pack. My parents don’t.

Last, my parents were in charge of my backpack when I was 5 years old. But I’m 7. I can do it now!

Activities (2)
Skills Activities
Answer Key (1)
Activities (2) Download All Quizzes and Activities
Skills Activities
Answer Key (1)
Step-by-Step Lesson Plan
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1. PREPARING TO READ

Have students preview the text features. Ask:

  • What is the topic of the debate? (Prompt students to use the debate title and the picture as clues.)
  • What are the two opinions people might have about this topic?

2. READING THE DEBATE

  • Read the debate as a class or in small groups.
  • You can also have students read the debate as partners, with each student reading one side aloud.

3. DISCUSSING

As a class or in small groups, have students discuss:

  • Which opinion do you think makes the most sense?
  • What is your opinion? What information or argument helped you form your opinion?

4. WRITING

  • Pass out our opinion-writing printable. Ask students to write their opinion in the top section.
  • Then students can underline three points in the debate that back up their opinion.
  • Last, they can complete our printable to show what their opinion is.

Text-to-Speech