Analyzing Arguments in Grade 5 Texts

Learning to identify reasons and evidence Tennessee Standard 5.RI.IKI.8 Building critical thinking skills

What is an Argument?

An argument is when an author tries to convince you of something It includes a main point or claim The author gives reasons to support their point Evidence backs up those reasons

Think About It

Can you think of a time when someone tried to convince you of something? What reasons did they give? Did you believe them? Why or why not?

The Three Parts of an Argument

CLAIM: What the author wants you to believe REASONS: Why you should believe it EVIDENCE: Proof that supports the reasons (facts, examples, expert opinions)

Argument Detective Activity

Read the short passage about school uniforms Find the CLAIM (what does the author want you to believe?) Identify the REASONS (why should you believe it?) Locate the EVIDENCE (what proof is given?)

Strong vs. Weak Evidence

{"left":"Facts and statistics from reliable sources\nExpert opinions and research\nReal examples and case studies","right":"Personal stories only\nOpinions without proof\nInformation from unreliable sources"}

Video Time: Finding Arguments in Texts

Practice with Real Texts

Choose one of three short articles Article 1: Why We Need More Recycling Programs Article 2: The Benefits of Reading Every Day Article 3: Should Students Have Homework? Use your detective skills to find claim, reasons, and evidence

Reflection Questions

Which article had the strongest argument? Why? What made the evidence convincing? Did you agree with the author's claim? What questions do you still have?

Remember: Be an Argument Detective!

Always look for the author's main claim Ask: What reasons does the author give? Check: Is the evidence strong and reliable? Think: Do I agree with this argument? Why or why not?