Standard: 6-8.WHST.1b – Support claim(s) with logical reasoning and relevant, accurate data and evidence that demonstrate an understanding of the topic or text, using credible sources.
Grade level: Grade 6-8
Subject: English Language Arts
Domain: Writing: History, Science & Technical Subjects
Teacher Overview
This standard emphasizes the importance of supporting claims with logical reasoning and credible evidence. It is crucial for students to learn how to back up their arguments with reliable data, as this skill is fundamental for academic writing and critical thinking across various subjects. Before tackling this standard, students should be able to identify credible sources and understand the difference between fact and opinion. They should also have experience in constructing simple arguments with supporting details.
After mastering this standard, students will be able to craft more complex arguments, analyze multiple sources for bias and reliability, and integrate diverse types of evidence into cohesive written works.
Common Misconception 1
A common misconception is that any source of information is credible. This is incorrect because not all sources are created equal; some may have biases, lack expertise, or be outdated.
Intervention 1
To address this misconception, teach students how to evaluate the credibility of sources by looking at the author’s credentials, the publication date, and the purpose of the source. Use examples of both credible and non-credible sources for practice.
Common Misconception 2
Another misconception is that all evidence is equally valid. This is incorrect because evidence can vary in relevance, accuracy, and context, affecting its strength in supporting a claim.
Intervention 2
To remediate this, instruct students on how to assess the quality of evidence by considering its relevance, accuracy, and context. Provide examples of strong and weak evidence and discuss why some evidence is more compelling than others.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Students should have a basic understanding of how to identify credible sources, differentiate between fact and opinion, and construct simple arguments with supporting details.
Subsequent Knowledge
Students will develop the ability to craft more complex arguments, analyze multiple sources for bias and reliability, and integrate diverse types of evidence into cohesive written works.
Instructional Activities
- Conduct a source evaluation exercise where students assess the credibility of various sources.
- Have students write a persuasive essay on a current event using credible sources for evidence.
- Engage students in a debate where they must support their arguments with logical reasoning and relevant data.
- Assign a research project on a historical event requiring the use of primary and secondary sources.
- Create a science report that includes data from experiments and credible references.
