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ENGLISH
Quarter 2 – Module 3
Opinion vs. Assertion

SDO TAGUIG CITY AND PATEROS

Introductory Message
For the facilitator:
This module was collaboratively designed, developed and evaluated by the Development
and Quality Assurance Teams of SDO TAPAT to assist you in helping the learners meet
the standards set by the K to 12 Curriculum while overcoming their personal, social,
and economic constraints in schooling.
As a facilitator, you are expected to orient the learners on how to use this module. You
also need to keep track of the learners' progress while allowing them to manage their
own learning. Furthermore, you are expected to encourage and assist the learners as
they do the tasks included in the module.

For the learner:

This module was designed to provide you with fun and meaningful opportunities for
guided and independent learning at your own pace and time. You will be enabled to
process the contents of the learning resource while being an active learner.
The following are some reminders in using this module:
1. Use the module with care. Do not put unnecessary mark/s on any part of the
module. Use a separate sheet of paper in answering the exercises.
2. Don’t forget to answer Let’s Try before moving on to the other activities included
in the module.
3. Read the instruction carefully before doing each task.
4. Observe honesty and integrity in doing the tasks and checking your answers.
5. Finish the task at hand before proceeding to the next.
6. Return this module to your teacher/facilitator once you are through with it.
If you encounter any difficulty in answering the tasks in this module, do not hesitate
to consult your teacher or facilitator. Always bear in mind that you are not alone.
We hope that through this material, you will experience meaningful learning and
gain deep understanding of the relevant competencies. You can do it!

Let’s Learn

This module was designed and written for you, dear grade 10 students. In
particular, it will be a great help to you in formulating a statement of opinion and
assertion especially when asked to stand on an issue. You will understand the merit of
factual information in solidifying your opinion and argument. To better suit your
learning process, gradual development of topic was put into consideration from simple
determination of factual and opinionated statements to a more complicated composition
of persuasive expression.

After going through this module, you are expected to:

1. identify factual information and opinion-based statements;
2. define opinion and assertion;
3. distinguish the types of argument—assertion, reason and evidence;
4. use transition words and expressions that emphasize a point; and
5. compose a persuasive text of three paragraphs expressing one’s stand on an issue

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 Opinion vs. Assertion
A good speaker or writer is said to be convincing. Although it takes practice and
time to master the skill, expressing ideas persuasively is actually within reach.

Let’s Recall

A mere opinion can be impactful when expressed with strong words and phrases.
Observe the conversation between friends on their group chat about the lockdown in
Metro Manila and take note of their opinions or arguments about the issue.

I hate this pandemic!!!!!

Yeah, I agree. My mom is loading me with

household chores. I can’t stand another day
being locked down at home.

@Roy OMG that is so true! I see in the news

today how thousands of people are losing
their jobs and closing down their business
as more cases are being recorded everyday.
Now, I’m getting shookt!

Nah. I think we’re improving slowly. Look at

how we shifted from tighter lockdown
measure (ECQ) in March to more relaxed
(MGCQ). Recoveries are also showing
significant increase on a daily basis.

Whateveeeer! Going to the mall is more fun

than spending a day with my annoying
brother is all I can think of.

How about we stay positive that this too

will pass? It’ll get better guys!

For speaking practice, you can rehearse this conversation with

your classmate. Have fun delivering your lines.
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PROCESSING QUESTIONS

Directions: Use an extra sheet of paper to answer the following questions

thoroughly.

1. Who among these friends do you think merely expresses an opinion and the
one with a reasonable argument? Why do you think so?
______________________________________________________________________________
2. If you would be part of this conversation, how would you react?
______________________________________________________________________________

Let’s Explore

Read more at https://k12.thoughtfullearning.com/minilesson/using-transitions-add-information-and-emphasis

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 What do you think do the words in italics have in common? Make
a guess before you continue on the next part.

EMPHASIZE

Observe the message bubble on the previous page and answer the questions
below. You may use an extra sheet.

1. List down the words in italics used in the message bubble.

______________________________________________________________________________
2. How do these words/phrases help establish their points in the conversation?
______________________________________________________________________________

Let’s Elaborate

One unique trait of a human being is the ability to reason out or simply voice out
an opinion. These opinions may be simple like explaining your favorite meal or subject
in school or a more complex one such as your political beliefs or moral standpoint.

To facilitate this journey, pay attention to the details and examples discussed
below regarding the topic.

OPINION AND ASSERTION

To promote self-expression particularly in composition of essays, short

statements and reports, these exercises encourage to form, shape and defend your
arguments.
However, it is important to discuss the difference between an opinion and an
argument first. An opinion is an expression of preference; it does not require any support
and is only the first part of an argument.

THREE PARTS OF AN ARGUMENT

A — Assertion
R — Reasoning
E — Evidence
To be complete, arguments should have three parts: an assertion, reasoning and
evidence (easily remembered with the mnemonic ARE).
An assertion is usually a simple statement, such as “Homework is a waste of
time,” or “Television news is boring,” An assertion is the thesis statement or the main
point of an argument.
Reasoning is the “because” part of an argument, as in the following examples:
— “Homework is a waste of time because it takes time away from other activities
that are more important.”

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 — “Television news is boring because it doesn’t talk about issues that are relevant
to me.”
Reasoning can be simple or complex, but when you are new to this process the
most important things to emphasize are the use of the word “because” as a cue and the
need to connect the statement and the reasoning.
Just as reasoning supports an assertion, evidence supports reasoning. There are
many different kinds of evidence, ranging from expert testimony or statistics to historical
or contemporary examples.
— “Homework is a waste of time because it takes time away from other activities
that are more important. For example, we end up doing worksheets of math problems
instead of getting outside and getting fresh air and exercise.”
— Television news is boring because it doesn’t talk about issues that are relevant
to me. For example, I never see stories about the issues that kids deal with every day.”
Therefore, an opinion is an assertion that requires more backing. Simple
statement of preference is bleak and dry without reason much so an evidence.

Note: To learn more about this lesson, please visit this link below:
https://www.tolerance.org/sites/default/files/2017-10/Civil-Discourse-v2-CoverRedesign-Oct2017.pdf

EMPHASIZING WORDS

You can make your ideas easier to follow by adding transition words or phrases
between paragraphs and sentences. Transitions alert readers to new important ideas
and details. Here are some transitions that can help you introduce new ideas and
emphasize key points.

Transitions to Add Information

again also and along with
another as well besides finally
for example for instance next moreover

Transitions to Emphasize a Point

in fact so with this in mind for this reason
first thing to another key point frequently important to
remember realize
indeed key point most importantly must be
remembered
on the positive on the negative significant that to point out
side side
to emphasize to repeat truly Apparently
surprisingly to reiterate to illustrate in most cases
enough

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 TWO are TOO GOOD!

By now, you may have realized that the

Let’s Dig In words or expressions in italics in message
bubble found in Let’s Explore section such as in
fact, indeed, on the positive side, besides and
truly are all called emphasis words. These words and expressions are important when
you air your opinion or assertion on a topic you are interested in as they establish a
clear path to the point you are making for better understanding and effective
persuasion.
Transition Exercise #1A: This sample paragraph starts with a topic sentence
that states an opinion. Transitions then signal each new reason to support the
opinion. Underline the words/expressions you think are adding or emphasizing the
opinion.
We need an afternoon recess for many reasons. The first reason is we get really
antsy after a lot of seatwork. In fact, we stay seated in our classroom for entire
afternoons some days. Another reason is we don’t have a lot of time to play with
friends. Lunch recess is really short, and the playground gets crowded. So it is hard to
play and make friends. Finally, we just need the exercise. Kids need to run around and
play games. It isn’t healthy to sit for so long.
Transition Exercise #1B: This time, fill in the blank with appropriate
transitions from the following list: another, with all this in mind, in fact, finally. Our
community pool is due for repairs. One area of concern is the foundation, which has
large cracks and chips. ____________, a kid this summer sliced open his toe on one of
the cracks. ____________ troublesome area is the surface around the pool. Simply put,
it's too slippery. Whatever sealer used to be there rubbed off. ____________, the pool
doesn't have any of the cool features of pools in other communities. There are no
slides, lazy rivers, water spouts, or diving boards. ____________, our community pool
badly needs updating.
1. What three transitions introduce Joanne’s character traits: nonconformist,
wild personality, interests?
_____________________ ___________________ ______________________
2. List two transitions used to introduce examples:_______________, ____________
3. List two transitions used to add another example: ____________, _____________
4. List the transition used to emphasize a point: ______________________

Let’s Remember
3, 2, 1
Directions: Complete the statements below.
3 Things you learned…__________________________________________________________
2 Things you find difficult…______________________________________________________
1 Thing you surely remember…___________________________________________________

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 Let’s Apply

To Write is Might!
Directions: Supply details in the idea map on the next page by choosing only
ONE topic below. A sample answer is provided for you.

Available Topics:

1. Does the government provide enough effort to combat COVID-19?

2. Is the country ready for election 2022?
3. Should the local governments open their doors to more tourists despite the
ongoing risk of pandemic?

Sample Answer
Topic: Climate change is real.
Claim: Climate change presents challenges to our society and the environment.
Reason 1: When climate change occurs temperature can increase dramatically.
Evidence 1: A visualization of global temperature changes since 1880 based on NASA
GISS data. (for more information, please refer to this link:
https://climate.nasa.gov/effects/).
Reason 2: It can result in more floods, droughts, or intense rain, as well as more
frequent and severe heat waves.
Evidence 2: Average U.S. precipitation alone has increased since 1900, but some
areas have had increases greater than the national average, and some areas have
had decreases. More winter and spring precipitation is projected for the northern
United States, and less for the Southwest, over this century. (for more information,
please refer to this link: https://climate.nasa.gov/effects/).
Reason 3: Oceans are warming and becoming more acidic, glaciers are melting, and
sea levels are rising.
Evidence 3: The latest special report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate
Change (ipcc), on how the oceans and frozen regions of the planet are changing in
response to the rising carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, is a predictably grim
read. (for more information, please refer to this link:
https://www.economist.com/international/2019/09/26/oceans-are-increasingly-
bearing-the-brunt-of-global-warming).
Explanation: The rise in temperature affects even the farthest and coldest section of
the planet; thus the melting of ice resulting to flooding in some vulnerable countries.
Abnormalities in weather are also the result of this change.

You may use an extra sheet of paper for this opinion map. Do not
forget to use the transition words that add or emphasize a statement
as well as the ARE pattern. ASSERTION is another term for CLAIM.

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 Let’s Evaluate

Having your knowledge about the right way of expressing opinion with the help of
emphasis words, construct a three-paragraph essay on an extra sheet by choosing ONE
image topic from the options below.
1 2 3

Image from the websites of VOA News, Bangkok Post and AsiaOne respectively. Full link on the Reference list.

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 For a clearer view, you may download a copy of this rubric at this
site:http://www.readwritethink.org/files/resources/printouts/Persuasion
%20Rubric.pdf. Simply attach this rubric and the extra sheet you used for
the Let’s Evaluate part.

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 Let’s Extend (Optional)

A LETTER LATER
Using your email account (preferably Gmail), write a letter to yourself which you
will only open 20 years from now. Highlight in your letter how Filipinos survived a global
health risk such as COVID-19 and what could have been done to better combat it. Use
statements expressing opinions or strong assertions in your letter. Make sure to provide
the following details to your email:

Here type in the email account of your teacher.

Make sure spelling is all correct.

For Subject, type in the title of your letter. You can

be creative here.

Compose your letter here. Follow the structure and format as

much as possible only this time the focus of the content is the
use of emphasis words as you answer the task.
Consult your teacher if you have some questions.

As you notice, the typeface Garamond is on

the picture. Please use such font style.

Click Send once you are certain with your letter

construction.

Do you want to cheat time? You can actually receive your own email
in a definite time in the future. Simply visit this link for a more fun
experience http://www.lettermelater.com/. Try it now!

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 References

AFP. (2020). Bangkok Post: SE Asia virus toll rises as Philippines ramps up testing.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/world/1899660/se-asia-virus-toll-rises-as-philippines-ramps-up-testing. [Accessed 20
June 2020).
Aspinwall, N. (3 Apr 2020). The Philippines’ coronavirus lockdown is becoming a crackdown: The Diplomat.
https://thediplomat.com/2020/04/the-philippines-coronavirus-lockdown-is-becoming-a-crackdown/ [Accessed 20 June
2020).
Defensor, L. (20 June 2020). Literacy for democracy: Inquier.net https://opinion.inquirer.net/130954/literacy-for-democracy
[Accessed 20 June 2020).
Economist Group. (2019). Oceans are increasingly bearing the brunt of global warming.
https://www.economist.com/international/2019/09/26/oceans-are-increasingly-bearing-the-brunt-of-global-warming.
[Accessed 18 June 2020).
El Camino College (n.d.). Using transitions. https://www.elcamino.edu/academics/basicskills/DLA_EngB_Transitions_ECC.pdf.
[Accessed 18 June 2020).

Favila, A. (2020). VOA News: Philippines Becomes First Nation to Close its Financial Markets Due to Coronavirus Pandemic.
https://www.voanews.com/science-health/coronavirus-outbreak/philippines-becomes-first-nation-close-its-financial-
markets. [Accessed 20 June 2020).

ReadWriteThink (2013). Persuasion rubric.

http://www.readwritethink.org/files/resources/printouts/Persuasion%20Rubric.pdf. [Accessed 20 June 2020).

Reuters. (2020). AsiaOne: Philippines records 7 novel coronavirus deaths, 205 more cases.
https://www.asiaone.com/asia/philippines-records-7-novel-coronavirus-deaths-205-more-cases. [Accessed 20 June
2020).
Shaftel, H. (2020). The effects of climate change. https://climate.nasa.gov/effects/. [Accessed 18 June 2020).
Shuster, K. (2017). Civil discourse in the classroom: Tools for teaching argumentation and discussion.
https://www.tolerance.org/sites/default/files/2017-10/Civil-Discourse-v2-CoverRedesign-Oct2017.pdf. [Accessed 17 June
2020).
Thoughtful Learning. (2020). Using transitions to add information and emphasis.
https://k12.thoughtfullearning.com/minilesson/using-transitions-add-information-and-emphasis [Accessed 17 June 2020).
_______.(2005) Reading—fact and opinion.
https://www.mdc.edu/kendall/collegeprep/documents2/FACT%20AND%20OPINIONrevised819.pdf. [Accessed 17 June
2020).
______. (n.d.). https://www.kyrene.org/cms/lib/AZ01001083/Centricity/Domain/2351/TRANSITIONS.pdf. [Accessed 17 June
2020).

Development Team of the Module

Writer: Michael N. Evans

For inquiries, please write or call:
Editors:
Content Evaluator: Ronald A. Apillanes Schools Division of Taguig City and
Pateros, Upper Bicutan, Taguig City
Language Evaluator: Angelus B. Salespara
Telefax: 838-4251
Reviewers: Name Email Address: [email protected]
Illustrator: Bernard Marc E. Codillo
Layout Artist: Michael N. Evans
Management Team: Dr. Margarito B. Materum, SDS
Dr. George P. Tizon, SGOD – Chief
Dr. Ellery G. Quintia, CID Chief
Mr. Noel T. Balubal, EPS- English
Dr. Daisy L. Mataac, EPS- LRMS/ALS
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