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A sun with sunglasses beside three autumn leaves in tan and rust tones
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Debate,

Summer vs. Fall

Summer is Grant’s favorite season. Olivia prefers fall. Whose side are you on?

By Gabby Bing | Art by Carolyn Ridsdale
From the September 2026 Issue
Lexiles: 500L-600L
Featured Skill: Supporting an Argument,

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Dear Olivia,

I just learned that summer lasts until September 22. Do you know what that means? There’s still time to enjoy the best season ever! I know you love fall. But I think summer should be your new favorite.

First, summer is perfect for spending time outside. The weather is usually warm and sunny. Research shows that being outdoors and soaking up the sun makes people happier. That doesn’t surprise me! What could be better than building sandcastles at the beach or doing a cannonball into a pool?

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Second, we have more free time in the summer. Most kids get about 10 weeks off from school. That means we can spend entire days doing things we love, like swimming, riding bikes, or making art.

Finally, summertime holidays are the most exciting. Just think about the fireworks we saw last Fourth of July. They lit up the whole sky! And the rainbow-sprinkle ice cream cones we had at our Labor Day cookout were so delicious. What season could top that?


Your summer sidekick,

Grant

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Dear Grant,

You make some good points. But I still think fall is the best season. And I’m not alone. I saw a survey that showed most Americans agree with me! Here’s why.

Picture a perfect fall day. The leaves are beautiful colors like ruby red and golden yellow. The air is crisp and cool. It’s not too hot and not too cold. It’s just right! You can play outside without breaking a sweat. Or you can cuddle up on the couch to read a book.

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There are also so many fun activities to do in the fall. You can go apple picking, carve pumpkins, and go on hayrides. Plus, it’s a great time for watching professional sports like basketball and football!

Last, many people’s favorite holidays are in the fall. I’ve been planning my Halloween costume for months. I know you can’t resist the candy we get from trick-or-treating! Plus, no holiday has tastier food than Thanksgiving. I can smell my nana’s cinnamon apple pie already! Mmm. So what do you say? Ready for some fall fun?


Fall fan,

Olivia

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What do you think?

Read the letters. List the reasons for each side of the debate and review them carefully. Write one sentence stating your opinion. (This can be a topic sentence for an opinion paragraph.)

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