Unit Plan 11 (Grade 4 ELA): Evidence that Convince(s)
Grade 4 argument writing unit: identify points, reasons, and evidence in texts and speeches, then craft opinion paragraphs with strong proof and clear conclusions.
Focus: Reasons/evidence from texts; listening for reasons in speeches
Grade Level: 4
Subject Area: English Language Arts (Reading Informational, Writing, Speaking & Listening)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 45–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
This week levels up argument literacy: students learn to identify a writer’s or speaker’s point, distinguish reasons from evidence, and evaluate how well those reasons are supported. They’ll practice pulling text-based evidence into opinion writing, ending with a clear concluding statement. By Friday, each learner will analyze points in print and audio, cite precise details (not just general ideas), and publish a tight opinion paragraph with two evidence-backed reasons and a conclusion tailored to audience.
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to…
- Explain how an author uses reasons and evidence to support particular points (RI.4.8).
- Listen to a short speech and identify the point, reasons, and evidence a speaker provides (SL.4.3).
- Draft an opinion paragraph with reasons supported by facts/examples from texts and a clear concluding statement (W.4.1b–d, W.4.9b).
- Use precise evidence (quotes/paraphrases) and linking language to connect ideas logically.
Standards Alignment — CCSS Grade 4
- RI.4.8 (explain how an author uses reasons and evidence to support points)
- W.4.1b–d (provide reasons supported by facts/details; link opinion and reasons; provide a concluding statement)
- SL.4.3 (identify reasons and evidence a speaker provides)
- W.4.9b (draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis/opinion)
Success Criteria — student language
- I can name the author/speaker’s point and list reasons with the exact evidence that proves each one.
- I can write an opinion paragraph with two reasons, each tied to text evidence, and a conclusion that wraps it up.
- I can paraphrase or quote accurately and explain why it belongs with my reason.
- I can tell whether a reason is strong or weak and explain why.