Argumentation
In this introductory unit, students will identify, trace, and evaluate arguments within various informational texts. Students will study argumentation techniques, looking closely at relevant v. irrelevant evidence. Students will use multiple formats (verbal, written, etc.) to create their own arguments on a social issue that impacts them or their community, using clear reasoning and relevant evidence.
Note: Each unit plan is generally taught over the course of one quarter of the school year. Lessons will vary in length, depending on the amount of time you have with students, the resources that you choose to accompany the unit, the level of rigor within each learning target, and any other factors that may contribute to the pacing of your learning progressions. It is recommended that you adjust the pace and length of each learning progression(s) accordingly in response to these factors.
These learning progressions were developed using Next Generation Learning Standards and were cross-walked with the Common Core Standards.
Download the complete Grade 7 ELA Unit 1 framework to customize for your own planning.
Essential Outcomes
Reading
- 7R1: Cite textual evidence to support an analysis of what the text says explicitly/implicitly and make logical inferences.
- 7R3: In informational texts, analyze how individuals, events, and ideas are introduced, relate to each other, and are developed
- 7R6: In informational texts, analyze how the author distinguishes his or her position from that of others.
- 7R8: Trace and evaluate the development of an argument and specific claims in a text, assessing whether the reasoning is valid and the evidence is relevant and sufficient and recognizing when irrelevant evidence is introduced.
Language
- 7L3: Use knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading, or listening.
Writing
- 7W1: Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence
- 7W5: Draw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research. Apply the grade 7 Reading Standards to both literary and informational text, where applicable
Speaking and Listening
- 7SL1: Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners; express ideas clearly and persuasively, and build on those of others.
All Standards Addressed in this Unit
- R1, R3, R4, R6, R8
- L3
- W1, W5
- SL1, SL3
Essential Questions and Big Ideas
- How do authors develop their arguments?
- Authors use a variety of techniques to develop an argument over the course of a text
- Authors must leverage sufficient, supporting evidence to make a relevant claim
- How can we determine the effectiveness of an argument?
- Readers must be well-versed in argumentation techniques, including use of relevant v. irrelevant evidence, to determine the effectiveness of an argument
- Good readers look for how arguments develop over the course of a text
- Why is it important to determine the effectiveness of an argument?
- To protect ourselves, we need to be aware that not all arguments are sound or based on reliable evidence and sources.
Download the complete Grade 7 ELA Unit 1 framework to customize for your own planning.