CCSS.ELA-Literacy.WHST.9-10.8
The Standard
Gather relevant information from multiple authoritative print and digital sources, using advanced searches effectively; assess the usefulness of each source in answering the research question; integrate information into the text selectively to maintain the flow of ideas, avoiding plagiarism and following a standard format for citation.
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 find information from several reliable print and online sources, not just grab the first search result. They should use smart search terms, judge whether a source actually helps answer their research question, and take notes that separate source words from their own thinking.
Mastery looks like a short research piece where evidence is chosen carefully, blended smoothly into the writing, cited correctly, and not overstuffed with quotes. Students often get stuck using weak websites, copying too much language, dropping in evidence without explanation, or citing only after the writing is finished.
Ways to Teach It
- Give pairs one research question and have them compare a library database article, a government page, and a blog using a source checklist.
- Ask students to write: Which source best answers your research question, and what makes it more useful than the others?
- Collect an exit ticket with one advanced search string, one useful source, and one sentence explaining why the source fits.
- Show a local news article about water quality, then have students trace one claim back to the study or agency it cites.
What This Unlocks
Mastery here sets students up for these next.
Related Standards
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.8.8
Gather relevant information from multiple print and digital sources, using search terms effectively; assess the credibility and accuracy of each source; and quo...
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.11-12.8
Gather relevant information from multiple authoritative print and digital sources, using advanced searches effectively; assess the strengths and limitations of ...
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.9-10.8
Gather relevant information from multiple authoritative print and digital sources, using advanced searches effectively; assess the usefulness of each source in ...
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