Write opinion pieces in which they introduce the topic or book they are writing about, state an opinion, supply reasons that support the opinion, use linking words (e.g., because, and, also) to connect opinion and reasons, and provide a concluding statement or section.

This standard is pretty similar to its first grade counterpart, but asks students to add linking words to the mix. Not only will linking words help second graders explain their thoughts more specifically and concisely, but they'll add some much-needed organization. Those skills will come in handy for middle and high school writing, when providing textual evidence becomes a must.