CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.W.1
The Standard
Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts · College and Career Readiness Anchor Standards for Writing
What This Standard Means
Students need to make a clear claim, explain why it is reasonable, and back it with evidence that fits. In younger grades, that may mean an opinion with reasons. In older grades, it means a precise argument about a text or issue, with evidence chosen and explained carefully.
Mastery looks like writing that stays focused, uses strong evidence, and connects each piece of evidence back to the claim. Students often get stuck by listing facts without explaining them, choosing weak evidence, or writing a claim that is too broad to defend well.
Ways to Teach It
- Hands-on activity: Give students claim, reason, and evidence cards, then have them sort and build the strongest argument paragraph.
- Discussion prompt: Which evidence best supports this claim, and what makes the other evidence weaker?
- Quick assessment: Ask students to write one claim and underline the evidence that directly supports it.
- Real-world connection: Have students write a short argument to a principal about one school rule they would keep or change.
Plan a Lesson for CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.W.1
Generate a complete lesson plan aligned to this standard, with objectives, activities, and materials. Free, no account needed.
Related Standards
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.9-10.1
Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.11-12.1
Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.7.1
Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.8.1
Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.