Standard: 8.RI.9 – Analyze a case in which two or more texts provide conflicting information on the same topic and identify where the texts disagree on matters of fact or interpretation.
Grade level: Grade 8
Subject: English Language Arts
Domain: Reading: Informational Text
Teacher Overview
This standard focuses on developing students’ ability to critically analyze multiple texts that provide conflicting information on the same topic. This skill is essential for understanding complex issues and forming well-rounded opinions, making it a crucial part of their education in English Language Arts. Students should be able to identify main ideas and supporting details, and have experience comparing and contrasting different texts.
Students will develop critical thinking and advanced analysis skills, enabling them to evaluate the credibility of sources and synthesize information from multiple texts.
Common Misconception 1
Students may think that if two texts disagree, one must be entirely incorrect. This misconception arises from a binary view of information, failing to recognize that multiple perspectives can coexist.
Intervention 1
Introduce activities that involve evaluating the credibility and evidence of different sources, helping students understand that differing interpretations can both be valid.
Common Misconception 2
Students might believe that conflicting information makes a topic too complicated to understand. This misconception can lead to frustration and avoidance of complex topics.
Intervention 2
Break down the texts into smaller sections and guide students through analyzing each part separately, which can make the process more manageable and less overwhelming.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Students should have a foundational understanding of how to identify main ideas and supporting details in informational texts, as well as basic skills in comparing and contrasting different texts.
Subsequent Knowledge
After mastering this standard, students will develop skills in critical thinking and advanced analysis, enabling them to evaluate the credibility of sources and synthesize information from multiple texts to form a well-rounded understanding of a topic.
Instructional Activities
- Compare and contrast news articles on the same event
- Analyze historical accounts of a significant event
- Evaluate scientific studies with differing conclusions
- Review different biographies of a famous person
