CCSS.ELA-Literacy.WHST.6-8.1b
The Standard
Support claim(s) with logical reasoning and relevant, accurate data and evidence that demonstrate an understanding of the topic or text, using credible sources.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts
What This Standard Means
Students need to back up a claim with reasons that make sense, then choose evidence that actually proves those reasons. They should use facts, examples, quotes, data, or details from sources that can be trusted, not random opinions or weak internet finds.
Mastery looks like a paragraph or essay where every reason connects to the claim, every piece of evidence is accurate, and the source fits the topic. Students often get stuck using evidence that is interesting but not relevant, copying facts without explaining them, or trusting the first website they find.
Ways to Teach It
- Give pairs three source cards and a claim, then have them sort evidence into strong, weak, and unrelated piles.
- Ask students to write: Which piece of evidence best proves this claim, and why is it more convincing than the others?
- Use an exit ticket with one claim, two reasons, and four evidence choices, asking students to circle the best match.
- Have students compare two product reviews online and identify which one uses stronger evidence to support its rating.
Related Standards
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.9-10.1
Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.7.1b
Support claim(s) with logical reasoning and relevant evidence, using accurate, credible sources and demonstrating an understanding of the topic or text.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.8.1b
Support claim(s) with logical reasoning and relevant evidence, using accurate, credible sources and demonstrating an understanding of the topic or text.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.6.1b
Support claim(s) with clear reasons and relevant evidence, using credible sources and demonstrating an understanding of the topic or text.
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