This module is for Grades: 6-8 Welcome

When reading scientific information, you need to know how to evaluate the claims that the author is making in the text. Is the author presenting a claim that is supported with factual evidence and a reasoned explanation? Are the facts that are included accurate and able to be verified by another source if needed? Answering these types of questions will help you to evaluate the author’s claims as you read.

In this lesson, you will learn how to distinguish among facts, reasoned judgment and speculation.

Module Objectives

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

  • Distinguish among facts, reasoned judgment (conclusion supported by facts and evidence) and speculation (unsupported claims).
girl reading and taking notes

Evaluate claims an author makes by looking at the facts and research findings that an author uses to support such claims.

Focus Standard:

RST.6-8.8 - Distinguish among facts, reasoned judgment based on research findings, and speculation in a text.

Skill(s)

  • Facts/Reasoning