Kentucky Reading and Writing C.7.1.f

ELA7th GradeComposition

The Standard

C.7.1: Compose arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.

Provide a concluding statement or section that supports the argument presented.

Kentucky Academic Standards for Reading and Writing (2025) · Text Types and Purpose

Teacher's field guide

What Students Need to Do: Students end an argument by bringing the reader back to the claim. They connect the ending to reasons already given and leave the reader with a clear takeaway.
What Mastery Looks Like: A student can restate the claim in fresh words and show why a reason matters. The ending fits the argument without adding new evidence.
Common Misconceptions: Students may copy the claim word for word or end with 'That's why I'm right.' Some add a new reason at the end or write a closing line that has nothing to do with their evidence.
How to Assess It: Exit ticket: A writer argues that the school should add a water refill station because students throw away many plastic bottles. Write a two-sentence conclusion that supports the claim without adding a new reason.

Lesson moves

Give pairs a printed claim, two reasons, and three possible endings; have them choose the ending that best fits the reasons.
Ask students to compare two endings for the same argument and explain which one better connects to a reason.
Play conclusion match: give groups four short arguments and four endings to pair up, then ask them to explain each match.
Give students a sample letter asking for a water refill station; have them write a closing paragraph that returns to its strongest reason.

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