CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.2.8
The Standard
Describe how reasons support specific points the author makes in a text.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts · Reading Standards for Informational Text
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students identify a point an author makes in an informational text. They find the reason the author gives and explain how it supports that point.
What Mastery Looks Like
- Students can name a specific point the author makes and locate a reason for it. They can explain the connection using a sentence such as, “This reason supports the point because...”
Common Misconceptions
- Students may confuse the topic with the author’s point. They may choose a related detail that does not support the point, or give their own reason instead of the author’s.
How to Assess It
- Use this exit ticket: “Our class should plant a tree. It will provide shade on hot days.” Ask, “What is the point, and what reason supports it?”
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Give pairs sentence strips from a short article, then have them sort strips into author points and reasons and match each pair.
After reading a short paragraph, ask, “What does the author want you to think, and why?” Students answer in two sentences.
Play Point or Reason by reading statements aloud while students hold up a P card or an R card, then explain their choice.
Examine a school poster or cafeteria notice and have students label its main point and the reasons given to support it.
Free download
Printable RI.2.8 Worksheet
A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.2.8, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.
PDF, US Letter, prints cleanly in black and white.
Download the worksheetLearning progression
Where This Standard Sits
See the whole path on the Reading: Informational Text progression map.
Before This Standard
If students are struggling here, check these first.
What This Unlocks
Mastery here sets students up for these next.
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Related Standards
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.5.8
Explain how an author uses reasons and evidence to support particular points in a text, identifying which reasons and evidence support which point(s).
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.K.8
With prompting and support, identify the reasons an author gives to support points in a text.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.4.8
Explain how an author uses reasons and evidence to support particular points in a text.
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