Paragraph Structure (PEEL) for Kids (KS1–KS2)

PEEL Steps

Point – your main idea (one clear sentence).
Explain – add detail that makes your point clearer.
Evidence/Example – give a short fact or example that supports the point.
Link – finish by reminding the reader how the paragraph connects to the question or the next idea.

PEEL helps paragraphs stay focused. Use it for one idea at a time.

Worked example

Question: Why is reading before bed helpful?

P (Point): Reading before bed helps me relax.

E (Explain): When I read I focus on the story and stop thinking about worries from the day.

E (Evidence): For example, last night I read for 15 minutes and fell asleep more quickly than usual.

L (Link): This shows that reading can make bedtime calmer and help me sleep better.

Try It — scaffolded

Write one clear point sentence about your favourite hobby.
Add one sentence to explain the point.
Give a short example or fact that proves your point.
Finish with a link sentence that reminds the reader how this helps answer the question.

Tip: Keep each sentence focused — one idea per sentence makes PEEL easier to use.

PEEL sentence frames

P: "My point is that..." or "I think..."
E: "This means that..." or "Because..."
E: "For example..." or "Evidence of this is..."
L: "This shows that..." or "Therefore..."

More worked examples

KS1 short PEEL:

P: Dogs make good pets. E: They are friendly and like company. E: For example, my dog waits at the door when I come home. L: This shows dogs can be great companions.

KS2 extended PEEL:

P: School trips help children learn in different ways. E: Trips let pupils see real examples of what they're studying rather than only reading about them. E: For example, visiting a museum helped our class understand how objects from the past were used. L: Therefore, school trips are a valuable part of learning.

Common errors & fixes

Too many ideas in one paragraph — split into two PEEL paragraphs.
Missing explanation — add a sentence that links evidence to the point.