Balanced Argument – Guided Reading Unit (Y3/Y4 | KS2) | 5 Fully Planned Sessions

Ideal for whole-class or small group reading | Focus on school uniform debate

This 5-session guided reading unit focuses on the balanced argument structure, with a text centred around the debate on school uniforms. Students will learn how to analyse and evaluate both sides of the argument, using critical thinking and reasoning skills to form their own opinions on the topic.

The unit is perfect for exploring persuasive language and argument techniques, and each session is designed to guide students through understanding the features of a balanced argument.

What’s included:
✓ 5 fully planned guided reading sessions
✓ A text focusing on reasons for and against school uniforms
✓ Vocabulary clarification and prediction tasks
✓ Comprehension questions focused on structure, language, and argument evaluation
✓ Clear learning objectives for each session

Why this unit stands out:

• Helps students engage with a relevant, real-world issue
• Focuses on evaluating arguments and forming evidence-based opinions
• Encourages critical thinking and understanding of persuasive techniques
• Ideal for building skills in both reading and writing persuasive texts
• Ready to use with no prep – perfect for classroom or intervention groups

Learning Objectives Covered:

1. Identify and explain the features and structure of a balanced argument and express their own opinion on the topic
2. Compare and contrast different points of view on school uniforms and use conjunctions to link ideas
3. Analyse the language and techniques used to present the negative aspects of school uniforms and evaluate the strength of the arguments
4. Evaluate the validity and reliability of the statements in a balanced argument and justify their own opinion
5. Summarise the main points of a balanced argument and write a conclusion that states the writer’s opinion and the reasons for it

Ideal for:
Y3, Y4
Whole-class or group guided reading
KS2 literacy lessons or reciprocal reading sessions

Search terms: ks2 guided reading balanced argument school uniforms y3 y4 lower key stage 2 writing comprehension opinion persuasive language evaluating arguments