English Language Arts and Reading.4.12.C

The student is expected to

compose argumentative texts, including opinion essays, using genre characteristics and craft; and

composition strand teks talk image

Knowledge and Skills Statement

Composition: listening, speaking, reading, writing, and thinking using multiple texts--genres. The student uses genre characteristics and craft to compose multiple texts that are meaningful.

As adverbs that convey degree are well suited for use in argumentative writing, a teacher may wish to pair SE 4.11.D.v with SE 4.12.C and assess both SEs at the same time. With SE 4.11.D.v, students correctly use adverbs that convey frequency and adverbs that convey degree. Task students with composing an argumentative essay on a topic that has multiple viewpoints. Students should incorporate multiple examples of adverbs that convey degree in their writing. Have students read their essays to the class, and as they are reading, the other students should list the characteristics of argumentative text that they identify as they listen. Students may need to be prompted to identify some characteristics.

Students' informational text should include the following:

  • A statement of opinion
  • Support of the opinion
  • Recognition of other viewpoints
  • Use of factual and personal examples that support the opinion
  • Clear organization
  • Development of ideas
  • Use of grade-appropriate language and conventions such as purposeful word choice
  • Sentences that are varied and well controlled
     

Further Explanation

This assessment item requires students to compose an effective argumentative text that demonstrates how a certain position on a topic is logical and correct while other positions are incorrect or not as strong. Their writing must have a clear central argument or claim that is supported by evidence. Their writing is expected to be organized, coherent, and include an introduction and a conclusion.

a text written to demonstrate to an audience that a certain position or idea is valid and that others are not The writer appeals to reason, develops, defends, or debates the topic, connecting a series of statements in an orderly way so they lead to a logical conclusion.
Students are expected to compose effective argumentative papers. They should understand that an argumentative text demonstrates to an audience that a certain position on a topic is logical/correct while other positions are incorrect. Student writing should have a clear central argument or claim that is supported by evidence. Their writing is expected to be organized and coherent and include an introduction and a conclusion.
an essay that describes a position on a particular topic or issue and develops the argument with supporting evidence

Research

Mora-Gonzalez, C. A., Anderson, C. E., & Cuesta-Media, L. (2018). Graphic organizers support young L2 writers' argumentative skills. GIST Education and Learning Research Journal, 17, 6–33. Retrieved from https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1200240.pdf

Summary: This research is on a student of a group of grade 6 Colombian English learners. The learners are asked to present arguments in their second language. Graphic organizers were used to support students' brainstorming and to assist students in structuring information in order to support a successful argument.