The 2011 ELA framework emphasizes teaching students to use evidence from texts when making analyses, determining meaning, or defending claims. These new reading standards develop students’ ability to read with focus, purpose, and care.

Students are learning how to write arguments and informative pieces, defending or supporting their claims with evidence from the text.  They also learn how to cite textual evidence through activities and assignments that stress reading and writing to respond to text. Consider the kinds of strategies that encourage students to use evidence in their writing.