Scaffold scientific explanations with a claim, evidence, reasoning writing template¶

Strategy · All strategies
Evidence · no claims cited

Description¶

The guide recommends the common science-classroom practice of writing claims using a claim, evidence, reasoning framework, initially scaffolded with a fill-in template: "My claim is ____________ . The evidence that supports my claim is __________ . I believe my evidence supports my claim because ___________ ." Because persuasive reading and writing require evaluating evidence, this practice builds a skill that transfers to reading and writing outside science. Students also apply it when proposing playground design solutions.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• Space for disagreement in the science classroom so students reflect on claims and the evidence behind them

Constraints¶

Target Learners¶

• Upper elementary students (grades 3-6 in the sample sequence)

Target Learning Goals¶

• Evidence-based scientific explanation and persuasive writing

Affordances¶

• Four Key Components Literacy Science Integration

Related Strategies¶

Examples¶

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Key Sources¶

• Practitioner's guide to integrating literacy and science. (2025). HMH Education Company / NWEA. https://www.nwea.org/research/publication/practitioners-guide-to-integrating-literacy-and-science/