Year 5 persuasive writing improves fast when students learn to build one clear reason per paragraph and support it with evidence. Here’s a simple method parents can use at home.
In Year 5, persuasive writing often jumps from “I think…” to “because it’s good” without enough explanation. Many students lose marks not because their opinion is wrong, but because their reasons are too short and their paragraphs are underdeveloped.
The fix is simple: teach your child to build one strong reason per paragraph, then expand it with explanation and an example.
This guide shows you exactly how.
What Year 5 persuasive writing needs (in plain English)
Year 5 persuasive writing is expected to be more than a list of opinions. Markers look for:
- clear structure (introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion)
- reasons that are developed, not just stated
- linking words that help the writing flow
- better paragraph control (one idea per paragraph)
If your child can do these four things, their writing usually improves quickly.
The easiest paragraph structure for Year 5: REE
Teach your child this simple formula for every body paragraph:
REE = Reason, Explain, Example
Reason
State one clear reason that supports your opinion.
Explain
Add 1–2 sentences that explain how or why the reason matters.
Example
Add a specific example to prove it.
This works for almost any persuasive topic and instantly makes paragraphs longer and stronger.
A worked example (ready to copy)
Topic: Schools should have longer lunch breaks.
Reason:
Longer lunch breaks help students concentrate in class.
Explain:
When students have more time to eat and move around, their brains get a proper break. This makes it easier to focus during the afternoon lessons instead of feeling tired and distracted.
Example:
For example, after a rushed lunch, students often complain they are still hungry or feel restless in class. With a longer break, they return calmer and ready to learn.
One paragraph. One idea. Clear development. That is what markers want to see.
How to help your child write a better reason
A “weak” reason is usually one of these:
- too vague: “because it is good”
- too emotional only: “because it is fun”
- missing impact: “because I like it”
Upgrade reasons with this parent prompt:
Ask: “So what?”
If your child says: “Homework should be banned because it’s boring.”
Ask: “So what? What happens because it’s boring?”
They might add:
“It makes students rush and stop trying, so they learn less.”
Now you have a stronger, more markable reason.
How to build a strong paragraph in 5 minutes
Try this quick routine with your child:
- Pick one reason
- Write the reason as one sentence
- Add two “Explain” sentences using: because, so, this means
- Add one example starting with: for example
- Add one linking word at the start of the paragraph: Firstly, Secondly, Another reason
That is enough to turn a short paragraph into a strong one.
Linking words that make Year 5 writing sound more mature
Encourage your child to use simple, powerful connectives:
- Firstly, Secondly, Finally (structure)
- Because, so, therefore (cause and effect)
- However, on the other hand (counterpoint)
- For example, such as (evidence)
A good goal for Year 5 is one strong linking word per paragraph.
Common Year 5 persuasive problems (and quick fixes)
Problem: Paragraphs are too short
Fix: Use REE and require an example.
Problem: Reasons repeat the same idea
Fix: Plan three different reasons before writing:
- reason about learning
- reason about safety/health
- reason about fairness/time
Problem: Ideas jump around
Fix: One reason per paragraph. If the sentence does not match the reason, move it or delete it.
Want personalised feedback on your child’s persuasive writing?
The fastest way to find out what your child needs next is to start with a Free Writing Check. It takes about 5 to 10 minutes and you receive a clear feedback report by email.
Start Free Writing Check
(Add your button link here)
If your child is in Year 5, the best value option is the Year 5 Writing Mastery Program, which includes both Narrative and Persuasive courses.
Mini FAQ
How many paragraphs should Year 5 persuasive writing have?
A simple structure works well:
- 1 introduction
- 2–3 body paragraphs (one reason per paragraph)
- 1 conclusion
Does my child need fancy vocabulary?
No. Clear, precise words are better than big words used incorrectly.
Should my child include a counter argument?
It can help, but it is optional at this level. Strong reasons and paragraph structure matter most.
A simple takeaway
If your child learns to write one REE paragraph at a time, persuasive writing becomes much easier.
Reason. Explain. Example. Repeat.
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