Standard: 6-8.RH.1 – Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.
Grade level: Grade 6-8
Subject: English Language Arts
Domain: History/Social Studies
Teacher Overview
This standard focuses on the ability to cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources. It is crucial for developing critical thinking and analytical skills, which are essential for understanding historical events and contexts. Students should be able to comprehend texts, distinguish between primary and secondary sources, and have some experience in citing textual evidence.
After mastering this standard, students will be able to construct well-supported arguments and have a deeper understanding of historical events and contexts.
Common Misconception 1
Students may believe that any piece of information from a text can be used as evidence, regardless of its relevance. This is incorrect because evidence must directly support the analysis or argument being made.
Intervention 1
To address this misconception, teach students to evaluate the relevance of evidence by asking how it supports their analysis or argument. Use guided practice with examples and non-examples of relevant evidence.
Common Misconception 2
Students may think that citing evidence means simply copying text without providing any analysis. This is incorrect because evidence must be explained and connected to the main argument.
Intervention 2
Encourage students to explain how the evidence supports their analysis and to connect it to their main argument. Use sentence starters and graphic organizers to help structure their explanations.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Students should have basic reading comprehension skills, an understanding of primary and secondary sources, and some experience with citing evidence from texts.
Subsequent Knowledge
Students will develop skills in critical thinking and analysis, improve their ability to construct well-supported arguments, and gain a deeper understanding of historical events and contexts.
Instructional Activities
- Analyze primary source documents from a historical event
- Write an essay supporting a thesis with evidence from texts
- Compare different historical perspectives using textual evidence
- Evaluate the reliability of various sources
- Create a presentation on a historical topic using cited evidence
