Using Text Evidence to Explain
Aligned to W.5.9 — Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts.
What this lesson teaches
When you analyze or reflect in writing, back your ideas with evidence from what you read. Point to specific details instead of just giving opinions.
Worked examples
Example 1
Claim: the story's hero is brave. Evidence: 'she stepped into the dark cave first,' which shows she faced fear to protect her friends.
Example 2
Claim: the author thinks the law failed. Evidence: they call it 'well-intentioned but toothless' — the word 'toothless' carries the judgment.
Example 3
Explain what the quote proves. A quote sitting alone makes the reader do your work, and they may reach a different conclusion.
Practice questions
- Write a claim about a text and one piece of evidence.
- Explain how your evidence supports your claim.
- Add a second detail that strengthens your point.
Watch the lesson
Every lesson comes with a video taught in English and Spanish — the same video the QR code in the printed workbook opens.
▶ Watch this lessonEn español
Usar Evidencia del Texto para Explicar
Cuando analizas o reflexionas por escrito, respalda tus ideas con evidencia de lo que leíste. Señala detalles específicos en vez de solo dar opiniones.
Ejemplo 1: Afirmación: la heroína de la historia es valiente. Evidencia: 'entró primero a la cueva oscura', lo que muestra que enfrentó el miedo para proteger a sus amigos.
Ejemplo 2: Afirmación: el autor cree que la ley fracasó. Evidencia: la llama 'bienintencionada pero sin dientes' — la palabra 'sin dientes' carga el juicio.
Ejemplo 3: Explica qué prueba la cita. Una cita sola hace que quien lee haga tu trabajo, y puede llegar a otra conclusión.
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