CCSS.ELA-Literacy.WHST.6-8.1
The Standard
Write arguments focused on discipline-specific content.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts · Writing Standards for Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects 6—12
What This Standard Means
Students need to make a clear claim about a topic from science, social studies, or a technical subject. They must support it with relevant evidence, explain how the evidence proves the claim, use content words correctly, and organize the argument so a reader can follow it.
Mastery looks like a focused claim, evidence from reliable sources, reasoning that connects the facts to the claim, and a short conclusion. Students often get stuck choosing evidence that truly supports the claim. They may also summarize facts instead of arguing, use weak reasons, or forget to address the other side.
Ways to Teach It
- Hands-on activity: Give students three source cards on one issue, then have them sort each fact under claim, evidence, or counterclaim.
- Discussion or writing prompt: Should our school ban single-use plastic bottles, using only evidence from the provided science article?
- Quick assessment: Ask students to write one claim, two evidence bullets, and one reasoning sentence on an exit ticket.
- Real-world connection: Have students read two local news excerpts, then write a short argument to the principal using facts from both.
Related Standards
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.WHST.9-10.1
Write arguments focused on discipline-specific content.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.7.1
Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.WHST.11-12.1
Write arguments focused on discipline-specific content.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.6.1
Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.
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