CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.9-10.1e
The Standard
Provide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts
What This Standard Means
Students need to end an argument in a way that grows from the claim, reasons, and evidence already presented. The conclusion should not feel tacked on. It should remind readers what the argument proved and why it matters, without repeating the introduction word for word.
Mastery looks like a final paragraph that ties the strongest points together and leaves the reader with a clear sense of closure. Students often get stuck by adding a random quote, making a new claim, repeating every topic sentence, or ending with a vague line like “This is why I am right.”
Ways to Teach It
- Give students three weak conclusions and have them revise one using the claim, strongest evidence, and a final why-it-matters sentence.
- Ask students to write: Which part of your argument should readers remember, and why does it matter beyond this essay?
- Have students highlight the claim, two key reasons, and the final sentence, then check if the conclusion matches all three.
- Show an opinion article editorial ending and ask students how the writer creates closure without simply repeating the opening.
Before This Standard
If students are struggling here, check these first.
Plan a Lesson for CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.9-10.1e
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.