Express Your Opinion

Worksheet Description

This worksheet serves as an instructive resource for enhancing students’ writing by incorporating the rhetorical device of antithesis. It begins with a clear definition of antithesis, drawn from its Greek roots, emphasizing its function to contrast or oppose ideas within parallel grammatical structures. To aid understanding, it offers famous examples of antithesis from Neil Armstrong and Goethe, showcasing how contrasting ideas can be effectively juxtaposed to create a memorable impact. By analyzing these examples, students can observe how antithesis can be employed to emphasize differences in concepts, adding depth and dynamism to written expression.

The worksheet guides students through a three-step exercise designed to foster their ability to craft sentences using antithesis. Initially, students are asked to think of a subject they hold strong opinions about, encouraging them to engage with their own perspectives. Following this reflective prompt, they are tasked with identifying an opposing or contrasting idea to their own, setting the stage for a creative and critical thinking exercise. Finally, the worksheet challenges students to synthesize these ideas into a coherent sentence that uses antithesis, allowing them to practice creating impactful statements that clearly communicate contrasting ideas. Through this structured approach, students develop their writing skills while learning to appreciate the power of rhetorical devices.