Two emoji panels show a sun with sunglasses and three autumn leaves in tan and orange tones
Art by Carolyn Ridsdale

Summer vs. Fall

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

A woman faces the camera with a warm smile
By Gabby Bing
From the September 2026 Issue

Learning Objective: Students will identify and evaluate reasons and evidence from both sides of a debate, then state their opinion on the subject in one sentence.

Lexile: 700L-800L

Standards

iStockPhoto/Getty Images (Goggles, Grant, Sun on Shirt)

Dear Olivia,

I just learned that this year, summer officially ends on 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.
Here’s why. 

First, summer is perfect for playing outside. The days are long. 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! Going to the beach on a bright day always puts me in a good mood. 

Second, we have more free time in 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. Plus, we can try new hobbies! Remember when my grandma taught us how to play chess last summer? I know you still love to play! 

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?

Summer is a time of sunshine, freedom, and unforgettable celebrations. It’s the G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time)!


Your summer sidekick, 

Grant

ADDICTIVE STOCK CREATIVES/Alamy Stock Photo (Olivia); Shutterstock.com (All Other Images)

Dear Grant,

You make some good points. But I still think fall is the best season. And guess what? I read a survey that showed most Americans agree with me! Let me tell you why. 

Picture a perfect fall day. The leaves are ruby red and golden yellow. As we walk home from school, some crunch under our feet. The air is crisp and cool. Not too hot, not too cold. Just right. In my opinion, that’s the best weather for playing outdoors—or cozying up on the couch with a good book! 

There are also so many fun activities to do in the fall. You can go apple picking or go on hayrides. Plus, fall marks the beginning of some of the most popular pro sports seasons, including basketball. I can’t wait to watch our home team shoot hoops. (Go Knicks!) I know I’m not alone. Last October, 37 million people tuned in to the NBA’s opening week!

Last, many people’s favorite holidays are during fall. I’ve been planning my Halloween costume for months. Plus, no holiday has more delicious
food than Thanksgiving. I can smell my nana’s cinnamon pumpkin pie
already. Mmm! 

Fall gives us cozy weather, exciting sports, and fun traditions. So what do you say? Are you ready to admit fall is the best of all?


Your fall-loving friend, 

Olivia

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Think & Write

Which do you prefer: summer or fall? Write an opinion essay explaining your choice.

This story was originally published in the September 2026 issue.

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