Two-Paragraph Show Review Writing Template for 13-Year-Old English Students

Instructions

1. Write a two-paragraph review of a television show, streaming series, or live show.
2. Use the planning prompts to organize your ideas before drafting.
3. Paragraph 1 should introduce the show and summarize it without giving away important surprises.
4. Paragraph 2 should evaluate the show and explain whether you recommend it.
5. Support your opinions with specific details, such as acting, characters, plot, setting, music, humor, special effects, or messages.
6. Use complete sentences, transition words, and careful proofreading.

Helpful reminder: A review is more than a summary. A summary tells what happens; a review explains how well the show works and why.

Paragraph 1: Introduction and Summary

Begin by naming the show and giving basic information. Then briefly summarize the setting, main characters, and central conflict. Do not reveal the ending or major twists.

Sentence starters:

• The show I am reviewing is called ____.
• It is a __ genre, such as comedy, drama, mystery, fantasy, or documentary.
• The show takes place ____.
• The main character or characters are __.
• The story begins when ____.
• The main problem or conflict is ___.

Draft Paragraph 1:

Paragraph 2: Evaluation and Recommendation

State your opinion clearly. Explain what the show does well and what could be improved. Include at least two specific details to support your opinion. End by recommending—or not recommending—the show to a particular audience.

Sentence starters:

• Overall, I think this show is __.
• One strength of the show is ___.
• For example, ____.
• Another effective or interesting feature is ____.
• However, one weakness is _____
• This show would be a good choice for people who ____.
• I recommend/do not recommend this show because ____.

Draft Paragraph 2:

Review Checklist

Put a check next to each item when you have completed it.

• [ ] I wrote exactly two paragraphs.
• [ ] I named the show and identified its genre.
• [ ] I gave a brief summary without spoiling the ending.
• [ ] I included my clear opinion.
• [ ] I explained at least two specific details from the show.
• [ ] I described at least one strength or weakness.
• [ ] I gave a recommendation for a particular audience.
• [ ] I used transition words such as also, however, for example, or overall.
• [ ] I checked spelling, punctuation, capitalization, and complete sentences.

Optional Challenge

Improve your review by doing one or more of the following:

• Compare the show with another show in the same genre.
• Explain the main message or lesson of the show.
• Discuss whether a character changes during the story.
• Use a rating out of five stars and justify your rating.

Answer Key

Because this is a personal review, answers will vary. A strong response should include the required information and explanations.

Sample Paragraph 1:

The show I am reviewing is The Mysterious Benedict Society, a mystery and adventure series. It takes place in a world where several talented children are invited to attend a secret mission. The main characters must work together to uncover the truth about a strange message that is affecting people across the country. The story begins when the children complete a series of challenging tests and learn that their teamwork will be important. The show combines puzzles, humor, and suspense without revealing the final solution.

Sample Paragraph 2:

Overall, I think this show is creative and entertaining. One strength is the way the characters use different skills to solve problems, because each person contributes something valuable to the group. The show also does a good job creating suspense through its unusual setting and mysterious clues. However, some parts of the story move slowly, especially when the characters are explaining their plans. I recommend this show to viewers who enjoy mysteries, teamwork, and adventure because it encourages people to think carefully and appreciate their individual strengths.

Checklist Answers:

A complete review should have two paragraphs, an introduction, a spoiler-free summary, a clear opinion, specific supporting details, a strength or weakness, a recommendation, transitions, and correct conventions.