Claim it!
Evidence Experts
Reasoning Rookies
Purpose & Structure
Citation Station
100

What should your first sentence always include in a CERCA paragraph?

A clear claim 

100

Name the two kinds of evidence required in BEST writing.

A direct quote and a paraphrase.

100

What is reasoning?

The explanation of your evidence and how it supports your claim.

100

What is the purpose of a conclusion paragraph?

To restate the claim and wrap up the point.

100

What’s the difference between sentence starter and parenthetical citation?

Sentence starter introduces the source; parenthetical comes at the end.

200

What does a strong claim do in argumentative writing?

It clearly states your position. 

200

What must follow every piece of evidence?

A citation and reasoning.

200

Can you repeat your evidence as reasoning?

No, reasoning must build on it, not repeat it.

200

What does a strong introduction need?

A hook, background information, and a clear claim.

200

What is this? “(Smith 12)”

Parenthetical citation.

300

What can you score if your claim is vague or missing?

A two or below

300

What type of citation is this? “According to the article, students thrive with structure.”

Sentence starter citation.

300

Why does reasoning need to be original and connected?

It shows your thinking and strengthens your argument or explanation.

300

Name a good transition to connect two paragraphs.

(Accept any: "In addition," "However," "Another things to consider," etc.)

300

True or False: You can get full points without any citations.

False. No citations equals max 2 in Development.

400

Fix this weak claim: “School is good.”

School is good because... Etc. 

400

What part of the rubric mentions evidence?

Development

400

What numerical score will weak or repeated reasoning get scored using the state rubrics?

A 2 or below.

400

What happens if your organization is unclear?

Your ideas are hard to follow and your score drops.

400

Rewrite this evidence with a proper citation: “Students need sleep to do well.” 

Source: CDC

“According to the CDC, students need sleep to do well in school.” OR add (CDC).

500

Why must your claim be restated in your conclusion?

To remind the reader of the purpose of the essay.

500

Identify what's missing in this evidence: “Students who read more books are more likely to succeed in school.”

Specific source or citation.

500

Explain how this reasoning is strong: “This shows that setting goals helps students focus, which improves learning.”

It connects the evidence to the claim and explains the impact.

500

Explain what makes a paragraph "cohesive."

Strong transitions, clear structure, and logical flow.

500

What must you always include for evidence in a BEST writing essay to get a 4 in Development?

At least one paraphrase, one direct quote, and proper citations in every body paragraph.