Learning goals
We are learning to…
- understand sustainability and the positive impacts of sustainable homes
- differentiate sustainable and non-sustainable actions
- identify the characteristics of an opinion paragraph including the topic and purpose
- reflect on how building communication skills can support us in our everyday life
Success criteria
I am able to…
- share my understanding of the positive impacts of sustainable homes
- analyze and differentiate between sustainable and non-sustainable actions
- identify the parts of an example opinion paragraph including the purpose, topic sentence, supporting details, and concluding sentence
Sustainability
Sustainability means taking care of the Earth and making sure we have enough resources for now and for the future. It means we do things in a way that doesn't harm the environment, like using less energy, recycling, and not wasting water. Sustainability is about making positive choices so that our planet stays healthy and happy for future generations!
Sort the examples to identify which actions are sustainable or not sustainable.
Practicing sustainability
There are many ways to take part in sustainability, like reducing our waste, conserving water, and protecting animal species.
Explore the following carousel of sustainable buildings from around the world.
Suzlon One Earth, in Pune, India, is designed by Christopher Benninger. This building is made with recycled and nontoxic materials, and all the electricity it uses is generated by wind turbines and solar panels.
ACROS Fukuoka Prefectural International Hall, in Fukuoka, Japan, is designed by Emilio Ambasz and Associates. This building has 15 garden terraces that help save electricity by keeping the building warm in winter and cool in summer. These gardens also give birds and insects a place to live.
The PARKROYAL Collection Pickering in Singapore, designed by WOHA. It has waterfalls, small valleys, and narrow openings that collect rainwater. This rainwater is used to water gardens on the balconies. These gardens make the hotel cooler because they give shade from the hot sun.
Some communities are also trying to build sustainable homes and buildings.
In the following video, TVO News shows how people around the world are finding ways to help our planet. These are called sustainable solutions. Sustainable solutions use resources in a way so that we don’t run out and make sure the Earth stays healthy for future generations. As you explore the video, notice the different materials that are being used.
Learning check
Why is using bamboo as a building material a sustainable solution?
Press Show Answer to learn more.
- Bamboo produces 35 percent more oxygen than trees, so it is good for the air.
- Bamboo grows very fast which means the bamboo trees that are used will be replaced more quickly.
How is building furniture using rice straw a sustainable solution?
Press Show Answer to learn more.
By using rice straw, we reduce waste and make good use of something that would otherwise be burned. This helps keep the environment clean and saves trees, as we don't need to cut down as many for wood.
Sustainable materials
Sustainable homes and buildings involve using renewable and recycled materials. These are called sustainable materials.
Explore the following carousel of sustainable materials.
Bamboo is a sustainable material because it grows very fast and releases 35 percent more oxygen than trees.
Hemp is a sustainable material because it doesn't need much water to grow and makes more pulp than trees.
Cork is a sustainable material because it can be taken from tree bark without cutting down the trees.
Let’s review
Select the correct answer, then press Check Answer to see how you did.
How can sustainable housing help protect the environment?
Press Show Answer to learn more.
- They use solar power which causes less air pollution.
- They use materials that can be used again, like bamboo.
Today’s vocabulary
Learning check
For each sentence, select the missing words from the drop-down menu. Press Check Answer to see how you did.
Student Wellness
Take a break!
Take a break before moving onto the next section.
Opinion paragraph
An opinion is what you think or feel about something. Opinion paragraphs help to communicate your opinion in a clear way. This can help you share ideas with others, learn new things, and even solve problems. Everyone has different opinions about sustainable homes.
Parts of a paragraph
Let’s review the basic parts of a paragraph.
Check out the following video on how to write a paragraph.
An opinion paragraph follows the same paragraph structure from the video. What makes an opinion paragraph special is that it shares the writer’s opinion (what they think and how they feel) on a specific topic.
Press the following tabs to learn more about parts of an opinion paragraph.
The main idea or subject of the paragraph.
The reason why the writer wrote the paragraph.
The first sentence that shares the opinion the paragraph will be about.
The reasons for the opinion in the paragraph.
A sentence that summarizes the writer’s opinion.
Explore the following paragraph and think about the different parts of an opinion paragraph.
Example opinion paragraph
I think sustainable homes are great because they help protect our planet. These homes are built with materials that don't hurt the environment, like recycled wood or bamboo. They also save energy by using big windows to let in lots of sunlight. This means we use less electricity for light and heat, which is good for nature. Sustainable homes can even have solar panels and wind turbines to make their own power! Sustainable home helps us do our part to keep the Earth healthy and beautiful for everyone.
Explore the following recording to find out more.
Example opinion paragraph
Let’s practice
For each term, select the corresponding description.
Cursive practice
Arthur says, 'Cursive is a style of writing. It helps build muscles in our hands and gives us another option when we are writing messages, taking notes, or creating a final copy of our work.
Let's practice writing a few words in cursive.'
| Sustainability | Energy |
| Efficient | Solar |
Tips for cursive letters
- When we write in lowercase, we always begin at the bottom.
- When we write in uppercase we can start from the top or the bottom.
- Try to keep the pencil on the page until you are done the word.
- Create a finger space before you continue to the next word.
- Try to press gently as you write so that your hand can move easily across the page.
- Take your time to make sure that you are writing clearly and evenly.
Let’s review your learning
Select the correct answer, then press Check Answer to see how you did.
Planning an opinion paragraph
Now it’s your turn to plan and write an opinion paragraph about sustainable homes.
Consider the following questions:
- Why are sustainable homes important for our environment?
- Should everyone be required to build a sustainable home?
- Which sustainable materials are best for the environment?
Choose one issue to write about (this will be your purpose) and then plan what you will include in your paragraph.
Student Tip
Student tip
Remember: if you need help with writing an opinion paragraph, you can refer to the example in the Action section at any time.
Complete the fillable and printable My Opinion Paragraph Plan in your notebook or using the following document. If you would like, you can use speech-to-text or audio recording tools to record your thoughts.
Writing your paragraph
Now that you have completed your Opinion Paragraph Plan, it’s time to put your ideas together in paragraph form using any method of your choice.
Here are a few ways you could state your opinion in your paragraph:
- I believe...
- My opinion is...
- I think...
- Sustainable homes are...
Once your paragraph is complete, use the fillable and printable Self-Editing Checklist to review and edit your work.
Extension activity
When you are happy with your opinion paragraph, you may want to record it using a method of your choice or read it to a learning partner, if possible. Sharing our opinions about sustainability allows us to learn and hear other ideas about protecting our environment that we might not have considered. Reading our paragraphs aloud also helps us with our reading fluency and presentation skills.
Reflection
How do you feel about what you have learned in this activity? Which of the next four sentences best matches how you are feeling about your learning? Press the button that is beside this sentence.
I feel...
Now, record your ideas about your feelings using a voice recorder, speech-to-text, or writing tool.