Page 19 - SpringBoard_Writing_Workshop_Grade7_Flipbook

Writing Workshop 2 (continued)
ACADEMIC VOCABULARY Evidence is said to be relevant if it is closely related to the issue or topic.
A credible source is one that is convincing or believable because it is reliable, accurate, and trustworthy.
student achievement (“. . . schools are interested in improving student achievement . . .”).
The idea that chewing gum is unhealthy is countered with evidence supporting the health benefits (“chewing sugar-free gum can reduce cavities by 70 percent”).
e. Organization: How does the thesis statement set up the organization of the essay?
Introduction: Begins with a rhetorical question and then introduces the rationale for banning gum chewing.
Body paragraph 1: Effective topic sentence introduces the writer’s first point.
Body paragraph 2: Presents a counterclaim and addresses it.
Body paragraph 3: Presents the writer’s most effective argument. Conclusion: Ends with a restatement of the claim and a call to action.
f. Transitions: What words does the writer use to connect thoughts and guide the reader through the essay?
Transitions include: “Even better, . . .” “As a matter of fact, . . .” “However, . . .” “By now it should be clear that chewing gum has real benefits.” “One last piece of evidence ...”
g. Sources: What sources does the writer cite? How do those sources support the writer’s claim with relevant evidence? Do the sources appear credible? How does the source of the evidence affect its relevance?
Check Your Understanding
The most effective form of evidence in an argument combines logic, or clear reasoning, and relevant information. For example, to say that “chewing sugar-free gum can reduce cavities by 70 percent” is a fact that logically supports the idea that chewing gum is healthy. However, reducing cavities does not necessarily lead to better performance in school, so this fact may not be as relevant to the claim as other evidence. Which evidence cited do you think is the most logical while also being relevant to the writer’s claim?
ACTIVITY 2
Writing an Argumentative Class Essay
WRITING PROMPT: Consider a decision that young people are asked to make between two potential options (such as whether to eat fast food or choose a healthier option). As a class, write an essay that discusses the opposing sides of that issue and convinces other seventh graders that one option is better than the other. Be sure to:
• Establish a clear position – the claim
• Use formal language appropriate for the purpose and audience
• Include relevant evidence that is logically organized and supports the writer’s
viewpoint
• Include a variety of credible evidence based on fact rather than opinion
• Anticipate and address potential audience concerns and/or questions
• Anticipate and answer counterarguments
• Use an appropriate blend of simple, compound, complex, and compound/ complex
sentences
4 SpringBoard® Writing Workshop with Grammar Activities Grade 7
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