Unit Plan 10 (Grade 7 ELA): Launching Argument Writing
Grade 7 ELA unit: students craft precise, debatable claims supported by clear reasons and credible evidence. They plan logical arguments, use cohesive linkers, acknowledge counterpoints, and engage in discussions to test and refine their reasoning for real audiences.
Focus: Claims, reasons, audience awareness; planning arguments
Grade Level: 7
Subject Area: English Language Arts (Writing—Argument; Reading Informational—Evidence; Speaking & Listening—Discussion)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 50–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
Arguments aren’t fights—they’re clear claims supported by reasons and evidence for a real audience. This week launches the argument cycle by teaching students to craft debatable, precise claims, plan reason → evidence pairings from texts, and use cohesion to connect ideas. We’ll practice accountable discussion moves to pressure-test claims before drafting.
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to…
- Introduce and focus a claim, acknowledge an alternate/ opposing idea, and plan a logical structure for reasons and evidence (W.7.1a).
- Support claims with logical reasoning and relevant evidence from accurate sources (quoting/paraphrasing with attribution) (W.7.1b; RI.7.1).
- Use cohesive devices (words, phrases, clauses) to clarify relationships among claims, reasons, and evidence (W.7.1c).
- Collaborate in discussions to test ideas, ask clarifying questions, and build on peers’ reasoning (SL.7.1).
Standards Alignment — CCSS Grade 7
- Writing 7.1a–c (W.7.1a–c): Introduce/organize claim(s) (acknowledge alternate views), support with reasons/evidence, and create cohesion with linking language.
- Reading Informational 7.1 (RI.7.1): Cite several pieces of textual evidence to support analysis and inferences.
- Speaking & Listening 7.1 (SL.7.1): Engage effectively in collaborative discussions; prepare, follow norms, pose/respond to questions, connect ideas.
Success Criteria — student language
- I can write a debatable, precise claim that fits a real audience and purpose.
- I can pair each reason with relevant, text-based evidence (quote or paraphrase with citation).
- I can use linking words/phrases/clauses to make my logic easy to follow.
- I can acknowledge an alternate viewpoint fairly before supporting mine.