Common Core Standards

Grade 8

Writing W.8.1

Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.

By this point, students should know how to write a pretty effective essay. In case if they haven't yet mastered those skills, here they are (courtesy of the Common Core):

1. The ability to write clearly and to recognize that their viewpoint isn't the only one out there.
2. The ability to sound intelligent when they're backing their argument.
3. The ability to successfully play connect the dots with different parts of an essay.
4. The knowledge that "I" and "you" don't really have a place in a formal essay.
5. The ability to write a conclusion that wraps everything up, sort of like how wrapping paper makes a present look all nice.

Don't forget to write "Good Job!" or "Well Done!" at the end of students' essays when they've passed this standard with flying colors.

Standard Components

Example 1

Here's an example lesson to use when your students are reading Animal Farm.

Have students discuss censorship and consider why Animal Farm was banned in many U.S. schools. Then, in a short essay, students should explain the circumstances of banning books in America (who bans books, why, when, etc.). They should also defend or dispute the reasons for banning Animal Farm, citing evidence from the text to prove their points.

Aligned Resources

Teacher Guides

More standards from Grade 8 - Writing

If I'd had to teach to the Common Core, I would have used Shmoop, too.

Aristotle

The observed gravitational effect between Common Core activities results from their warping of Shmooptime.