CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.9-10.3
The Standard
Evaluate a speaker's point of view, reasoning, and use of evidence and rhetoric, identifying any fallacious reasoning or exaggerated or distorted evidence.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts · Speaking and Listening Standards
What This Standard Means
Students need to listen to a speech, podcast, debate clip, or presentation and judge how well the speaker builds a case. They should name the speaker’s viewpoint, track the reasons, check the evidence, and notice word choices meant to persuade the audience.
Mastery looks like a student saying, “The claim is clear, but the evidence is cherry-picked,” then pointing to the exact line or moment. Students often get stuck summarizing instead of evaluating. They may also call any strong opinion “bias” without explaining the reasoning problem or evidence issue.
Ways to Teach It
- Give pairs a short campaign speech transcript and have them highlight claims, evidence, emotional language, and one possible weak spot.
- Ask students to write: Which part of the speaker’s argument sounds strongest, and which part needs better proof?
- Play a two-minute debate clip, then have students complete a four-box chart: viewpoint, reason, evidence, flaw.
- Use a viral product review video and ask students to spot exaggeration, missing evidence, and persuasive language.
Before This Standard
If students are struggling here, check these first.
Plan a Lesson for CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.9-10.3
Generate a complete lesson plan aligned to this standard, with objectives, activities, and materials. Free, no account needed.
What This Unlocks
Mastery here sets students up for these next.