CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.6.1

ELA6th GradeText Types and Purposes

The Standard

Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.

Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts · Writing Standards

What This Standard Means

Students need to take a clear position, give reasons that make sense, and back those reasons with evidence from texts or reliable sources. They also need to organize the argument so a reader can follow it, use linking words, and write a conclusion that fits the claim.

Mastery looks like a focused claim, reasons in a logical order, quoted or paraphrased evidence, and an explanation of how the evidence proves the point. Students often get stuck writing opinions without proof, choosing weak evidence, repeating the claim, or dropping in quotes without explaining them.

Ways to Teach It

Hands-on activity: Give students cut-up claim, reason, evidence, and explanation cards, then have them build a strong argument paragraph in order.
Discussion or writing prompt: Should sixth graders have assigned seats at lunch, and what evidence would make your argument stronger?
Quick assessment: Ask students to underline the claim, circle each reason, and star the best evidence in a sample paragraph.
Real-world connection: Analyze a product review and identify the claim, reasons, evidence, and whether the review actually proves its point.