CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.11-12.1b
The Standard
Develop claim(s) and counterclaims fairly and thoroughly, supplying the most relevant evidence for each while pointing out the strengths and limitations of both in a manner that anticipates the audience's knowledge level, concerns, values, and possible biases.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students build an argument that gives fair attention to their position and opposing views. They choose relevant evidence, weigh strengths and limits, and shape explanations for a specific audience.
What Mastery Looks Like
- A student presents a clear claim and an accurate counterclaim without distorting either side. The student selects strong evidence, explains its limits, and addresses the audience’s likely concerns and values.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may present a weak version of the opposing view or give evidence only for their own position. They may dismiss counterclaims quickly or assume the audience already agrees with them.
How to Assess It
- Give students two short source excerpts on school phone restrictions. Ask them to write one paragraph presenting both positions, weighing the evidence, and addressing parent concerns.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Give groups claim, counterclaim, evidence, and audience cards to sort, then have them build a balanced argument outline.
Ask, “How would your argument change for parents, students, and administrators?” Students write three different openings.
Run an evidence draft game where teams choose the strongest source for each side and explain why weaker sources fall short.
Compare editorials about a local policy, then identify how each writer responds to readers’ concerns, values, and likely biases.
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Printable W.11-12.1b Worksheet
A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.11-12.1b, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.
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Where This Standard Sits
Before This Standard
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Related Standards
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