Standard: 7.W.1b – Support claim(s) with logical reasoning and relevant evidence, using accurate, credible sources and demonstrating an understanding of the topic or text.
Grade level: Grade 7
Subject: English Language Arts
Domain: Writing
Teacher Overview
This standard focuses on teaching students to support their claims with logical reasoning and relevant evidence from credible sources. It is crucial because it helps students develop critical thinking skills and the ability to construct well-founded arguments, which are essential for academic success and informed citizenship. Students should already know how to construct a basic argument and identify credible sources. They should also be able to distinguish between fact and opinion.
Once students master this standard, they will be able to craft more complex arguments, integrate multiple sources seamlessly, and critically evaluate the strength of evidence presented in various texts.
Common Misconception 1
A common misconception is that any source can be used as evidence. This is incorrect because not all sources are credible or reliable, and using questionable sources weakens an argument.
Intervention 1
To remediate this misconception, teach students how to evaluate the credibility of sources by checking the author’s qualifications, the publication date, and the source’s reputation.
Common Misconception 2
Another misconception is that simply stating an opinion is enough to support a claim. This is incorrect because opinions need to be backed by logical reasoning and relevant evidence to be convincing.
Intervention 2
Address this by providing examples of weak vs. strong arguments and emphasizing the importance of using logical reasoning and relevant evidence to support claims.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Students should have a basic understanding of how to construct a simple argument, identify credible sources, and differentiate between fact and opinion.
Subsequent Knowledge
After mastering this standard, students will be able to craft more complex arguments, integrate multiple sources seamlessly, and critically evaluate the strength of evidence presented in various texts.
Instructional Activities
- Analyzing persuasive essays to identify claims and supporting evidence
- Conducting research on a given topic and presenting findings in a structured argument
- Participating in classroom debates to practice logical reasoning
- Writing opinion pieces with cited sources
- Creating multimedia presentations that include evidence-based arguments
