Text-evidence paragraphs
Help students move from choosing a detail to explaining why it matters. Start with a short passage, one clear claim, and a model they can use as a guide.
Try this writing routine
1. Answer the question in one sentence.
2. Choose a detail that supports your answer.
3. Explain how that detail supports your thinking.
4. Reread: does every sentence connect to your claim?
Free lesson: Using Text Evidence: The Library Plan
A free high school ELA lesson with an original short story, vocabulary support, a worked example, guided practice, and independent writing. A separate teacher guide includes sample answers. Review and adapt the materials for your class.
Student lesson PDF · Student lesson Word
Teacher guide and answer key PDF · Teacher guide and answer key Word
A quick practice prompt
Jordan read the instructions twice. When the group began, Jordan pointed to the first step and asked everyone to check the materials.
What does Jordan’s behavior suggest? Write a claim, include one detail, and explain your thinking.
Sentence frame: Jordan seems ___. The text says ___. This suggests ___ because ___.