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Lexia Skill Builders®
INSTRUCTIONAL VOCABULARY CARDS
Use these cards independently or with a partner to review the instructional terms introduced online.
reason
why the author makes the claim
claim
the main point of an author’s argument
!
argument
writing that supports a claim
with reasons and evidence
!
evidence
examples, facts, and expert
quotes that support the reason
SKILL FOCUS
A. Read the terms in the box. Then, write each term next to its definition.
claim reason evidence argument
1. examples, facts, and expert quotes that support the reason
2. writing that supports a claim with reasons and evidence
3. why the author makes the claim
4. the main point of an author’s argument B. Read each sentence. Circle True or False.
1. An argument tells a story. True / False
2. A claim is the main point of an author’s argument. True / False
3. Authors use reasons to show why they are making a claim. True / False
4. Examples, facts, and expert quotes are types of evidence. True / False
C. Circle the correct answer to complete each sentence.
1. Authors write arguments to convince readers to ( agree / disagree ) with their viewpoint.
2. A claim is a ( specific detail / main point ) of an author’s argument.
3. Reasons and ( evidence / claims ) support claims.
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Lexia Skill Builders®
SKILL FOCUS
D. Use the terms and definitions in Part A to complete the missing parts of the organizer.
ARGUMENT
!
C : the main point of an author’s argument
R : why the author makes the claim
EVIDENCE: examples, f , and expert q that support the reason
E. Read each sentence. Decide whether the sentence could be used as a claim, reason, or evidence in an argument.
Circle your answer.
Set 1
1. Dogs are much better pets than cats. evidence / claim
2. One reason is that dogs can help keep people active. reason / claim
3. For example, you can take a dog on a walk, run, or hike.
These are not things people bring cats outside to do. evidence / reason
Set 2
1. Cats are far better pets than dogs. evidence / claim
2. Cats cost less to own. reason / claim
3. Cats don’t need as many things like toys, crates, and classes. They also eat
TEXT
Read the argument Adopt an Adult Dog. Then, complete the activities.
Adopt an Adult Dog
Do you want a pet dog? Help one of the many dogs in need by adopting an older dog from an animal shelter. An adult dog can be a better choice than a puppy since they are easier to plan for. You’ll know how big the dog will be. You’ll be able to tell how shy, friendly, or active it is. Also, an adult dog is easier to care for. Many older dogs in shelters are already trained. This means they come when called and you’ll have fewer accidents in the house! Last, there are so many dogs in shelters that need homes! The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) works to protect pets. The ASPCA says that more than 3 million dogs are placed in shelters every year. Adopt an adult dog. Give it freedom and a family to love.
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Lexia Skill Builders®
SKILL APPLICATION
A. Complete the missing parts of the organizer using the text.
ARGUMENT
!
CLAIM: You should .
REASON: Adult dogs are easier
to for.
REASON: Adult dogs are easier
to for.
REASON: There are many
dogs in shelters that need
. EVIDENCE: You’ll know how
the dog will
be.
You’ll be able to tell how shy,
friendly, or
the dog is.
EVIDENCE: Many dogs in shelters
are already .
EVIDENCE: According
to the ASPCA, more than
million
dogs are put in shelters each year.
B. Answer the questions using information from the text and organizer.
1. Circle the correct answer. The author’s purpose is to convince the reader to a. adopt a puppy from a shelter.
b. adopt an adult dog from a shelter.
2. According to the text, why is it easier to get an adult dog? Circle the 2 correct answers from the choices below.
a. You’ll know what the dog’s favorite toys are.
b. Adult dogs are easier to care for.
c. You’ll have an easier time planning for the dog. d. Adult dogs are more playful.
SKILL APPLICATION
3. What is the author’s third reason for adopting an adult dog?
4. Why do you think the author included this fact?
The ASPCA says that more than 3 million dogs are placed in shelters every year.
5. Why do you think the author included the 2 sentences at the end of the text? Circle your answer below.
Adopt an adult dog. Give it freedom and a family to love.
a. To add a new piece of evidence to the argument b. To conclude and remind the reader of the claim c. To ask the reader a question
★ Write a short argument about why students should or should not be allowed to chew gum in class. Include 1 claim, 2 reasons, and 2 pieces of evidence for each reason. Use an approved search engine to find strong evidence for your argument.
