Worked example
Question: Which response gives a reason? “I like the poem because the rhyme is funny.” It says the preference and explains why.
Key concept
Learning goal: I can explain my likes, dislikes and preferences with clear reasons.
- Use because to give a reason for a like, dislike or preference.
- Use comparison words such as better and faster to show how strongly you prefer something.
Steps to use
State preference → Give reason → Use evidence → Listen/respond
See it, then try it
Use because to explain a preference
I prefer the red coverbecause it is easier to seeI dislike the noisy endingbecause it distracts me
Build a reasoned response
I like...I prefer...because...My reason is...
Curriculum Coverage & Elaborations
Curriculum Coverage & Elaborations
The content description is the required target. The elaborations below are taught as examples and contexts, not as disconnected checklist wording.
- E1: using words including “because” to introduce reasons for likes, dislikes and preferences
- E2: exploring comparative words (adjectives) to express the degree of preference; for example, “better”, “faster”
Common misconceptions
- No reason — Add because and a real reason.
- Repeating the same words — Use like, dislike, prefer and reason language.
- Reason does not match — Check the reason explains the choice.
Try these
- Reason ladder — Choose a book, game or activity and add one clear reason.I prefer ___ because ___.
- Sort strong responses — Sort responses into ‘reason’ and ‘no reason’.I like it. / I like it because it is funny.
- Agree and build — Listen to a partner’s preference and add your own reason.I agree because...
Explain and apply
Preference plus reason
Choose a favourite between reading outside and drawing inside. Give the preference and the reason.
Answer and teaching guidance
The answer should name the choice and use because to explain why the speaker prefers it.
Fact or opinion
Compare The apple is red and I like red apples best. Which sentence gives a personal preference?
Answer and teaching guidance
I like red apples best is a preference because another person could choose differently.
Give a clear reason
A learner says I dislike the game because it is hard to join. What does the reason explain?
Answer and teaching guidance
The reason explains the dislike. It gives listeners more information than I dislike the game by itself.
Disagree respectfully
Your partner prefers soccer; you prefer skipping. Share your view without making their choice wrong.
Answer and teaching guidance
A suitable response begins with I prefer and gives a reason, while still accepting that the partner has a different preference.
Check your understanding
Quick checks
- Complete: I prefer ___ because ___.
- Which sentence gives a reason?
- How can you politely disagree?
- Why is “because” useful?
I am ready when I can
- I can use because to give a reason for a like, dislike or preference.
- I can use comparison words such as better and faster to show how strongly you prefer something.
Curriculum equivalents: Victoria, NSW and international
Curriculum equivalents for Language to provide reasons for likes, dislikes and preferences
Mapped skill: explore language to provide reasons for likes, dislikes and preferences
These references identify matching or closely related learning. Curriculum sequence, terminology and depth vary, so teachers should use the mapped skill and lesson difficulty to confirm suitability.
| Region | Curriculum framework | Closest level or code |
|---|---|---|
| Australia | Australian Curriculum v9.0 | AC9E1LA02 · Year 1 |
| Victoria | Victorian Curriculum F–10 Version 2.0 — English | VC2E1LA02 · Level 1 |
| New South Wales | NSW English K–10 Syllabus (2022) | EN1-OLC-01 · Stage 1 |
| United States (USA) | Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts | Grade 1 |
| Canada (Ontario) | Ontario Curriculum — English | Grade 1 |
| United Kingdom (England) | National Curriculum in England — English | Year 2, Key Stage 1 |
| India | NCERT / CBSE — English | Class 1 |
Australian Curriculum v9.0 is the canonical source for this SkillrHub lesson. Victoria and NSW entries name the closest published state codes or outcomes; international entries are planning references rather than claims of identical curricula.
🎥 Optional Video Lesson
The SkillrHub lesson remains the primary learning resource. This optional video reinforces the explanation; you can complete the lesson and practice without watching.
Before you watch:
- Pause after each worked example.
- Try the examples yourself.
- Return to the SkillrHub lesson before continuing.
Recommended: Opinion Writing for Kids: What Is It?
Teaching Without Frills — Recognise words that express a preference and practise giving a simple reason.
As you watch: Which words tell you how the speaker feels? Listen for a reason for an opinion.
Load video player Loads YouTube in this lesson. See the video notice below.
Try it: Choose a favourite game. Tell someone: I like ___ because ___. Ask for their opinion and listen to their reason.
Video unavailable, inaccurate or unsuitable for this year? Report a video problem to SkillrHub by email. You can continue with the written lesson and practice resources.
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