Introduce a topic or text clearly, state an opinion, and create an organizational structure in which related ideas are grouped to support the writer's purpose.

Here's where the rubber meets the road. Nailing this substandard can be a challenge because at this age, fourth graders aren't always able to look at their writing—or opinions—objectively, thoughtfully, and purposefully.

You still got this, though. Helping kids with opinions—structured opinions—can be handled with brainstorming, diagrams, and outlines.