English // Reading Comprehension

Evaluating Arguments in Non-Fiction

Evaluate arguments and claims in non-fiction texts — assess whether reasoning is sound, evidence is relevant and sufficient, distinguish between fact and opinion, and recognise bias, propaganda, and rhetorical techniques

Ages
11 to 14
Type
Concept
Builds on
3 topics
Leads to
1 topic
Standards
5 codes

Quick check

When the learner reads a persuasive piece — like an editorial or a speech — can they identify the rhetorical techniques being used, evaluate whether the argument is logically sound, and explain what might be biased or misleading?

Ask this to see whether the topic is secure.

Topic // Mastery

What mastery looks like

What a learner can do once this topic is secure.
  • Identify the main claim in an argument text and evaluate whether the evidence presented is sufficient
  • Spot logical fallacies or irrelevant evidence introduced to distract from weak reasoning
  • Compare two opposing arguments on the same issue and evaluate which is more convincing, with reasons

Topic // Map

Where this fits

What to learn first and what this topic opens up, with the reason for each link. Required links come first.
  • RequiredMust come first
  • HelpfulHelps, but not essential

Before this

3 topics
  • Fact vs opinionRequired

    Reading Comprehension // Ages 10 to 11

    Evaluating arguments builds on KS2 distinguishing fact from opinion

  • Using and Evaluating Textual EvidenceRequired

    Reading Comprehension // Ages 11 to 14

    Assessing whether evidence is sufficient requires textual evidence skills

  • Purpose, audience, and contextRequired

    Reading Comprehension // Ages 11 to 14

    Evaluating claims requires understanding purpose, audience, and context

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Evaluating Arguments in Non-Fiction

Ages 11 to 14 // Concept

Leads to

1 topic
  • Persuasive WritingHelpful

    Writing Composition // Ages 11 to 14

    Writing arguments benefits from reading skill of evaluating arguments and claims

Topic // Standards

Curriculum standards

Codes for the curriculum statements this topic maps to. Each publisher owns its standard text.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects
RI.6.8RI.7.8RI.8.8
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document
KS3-ENG-R-2bKS3-ENG-R-3e

English // Reading Comprehension

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