Standard: 6.W.1a – Introduce claim(s) and organize the reasons and evidence clearly.
Grade level: Grade 6
Subject: English Language Arts
Domain: Writing
Teacher Overview
This standard focuses on helping students learn to introduce claims clearly and support them with organized reasons and evidence. This skill is crucial for developing strong argumentative writing, which is a key component of the English Language Arts curriculum. Mastering this standard will enable students to present their ideas logically and persuasively, which is essential for academic success and effective communication in various contexts. Students should be familiar with essay structure and the concept of a ‘claim.’ They should have some practice in supporting their ideas with reasons or evidence.
Students will develop the ability to write more complex argumentative essays, including counterclaims and rebuttals. They will also improve their critical evaluation skills, assessing the strength of evidence and the logic of arguments in various texts.
Common Misconception 1
Some students may think that any opinion can be considered a valid claim without needing evidence. This is incorrect because a claim must be supported by credible reasons and evidence to be persuasive and valid.
Intervention 1
Use examples and practice exercises to teach students the importance of backing up claims with credible evidence. Show them how unsupported claims can weaken their arguments.
Common Misconception 2
Students might believe that the organization of evidence is not important as long as they have it. This misconception can lead to disorganized writing that is difficult to follow and less persuasive.
Intervention 2
Compare disorganized and well-organized essays to show students how organization enhances clarity and persuasiveness. Provide graphic organizers to help them structure their arguments effectively.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Students should understand the basic structure of an essay, including introduction, body, and conclusion. They should also be familiar with the concept of a ‘claim’ and have some experience with supporting their ideas with reasons or evidence.
Subsequent Knowledge
After mastering this standard, students will be able to write more complex argumentative essays, incorporating counterclaims and rebuttals. They will also enhance their ability to critically evaluate the strength of evidence and the logic of arguments in various texts.
Instructional Activities
- Have students write a persuasive essay on a school policy.
- Organize a classroom debate on a current event topic.
- Create an advertisement for a product, focusing on clear claims and supporting evidence.
- Write a letter to the editor of a newspaper on a community issue.
- Develop and present a speech for a student council election.
