Ebook explaining perspective, viewpoint, and opinion

A school garden’s tomatoes go missing, revealing how perspective, viewpoint, and opinion shape how different people see the same event.

At Maplewood School, each grade tends a section of the garden. Grade 5 has been carefully growing tomatoes for a healthy eating project. One morning, Mr. Ortiz, the science teacher, discovers all the tomatoes are gone.

Different people react based on their perspectives — shaped by their background and role. Maya, who watered the plants each week, feels the loss of her hard work. Ethan, focused on winning the “Best Garden Patch” prize, sees their chances ruined. Mr. Ortiz views it as a teaching moment, while Mrs. Patel, the school cook, worries about changing her lunch menu.

Investigating from different viewpoints — physical or situational angles — reveals clues. From the gate, Ethan notices the latch open. At the patch, Maya spots small footprints. From the art room window, Zara saw someone in a blue hoodie in the garden. From the playground, Liam recalls seeing a similar hoodie near the back gate.

Opinions form quickly: Maya says taking what isn’t yours is wrong. Ethan feels the culprit should apologize. Mrs. Patel suspects a misunderstanding. Zara is convinced the hoodie-wearer is suspicious. Mr. Ortiz urges patience.

A meeting with the principal, Mrs. Green, uncovers the truth: the Environmental Club harvested the tomatoes for a workshop, with office permission — but no one told the Grade 5 class.

Disappointment turns to understanding. Maya is relieved they weren’t wasted, Ethan suggests planting more, and Mr. Ortiz explains how perspective, viewpoint, and opinion shaped everyone’s reaction — and why listening first matters.