A quick worksheet in two parts to help activate and/or assess students' understanding of essay claims. Part 1 is three questions in which students choose the best claim from the multiple-choice options provided (answer key included). Part 2 is space for students to list criteria for strong claims; there is a challenge prompt for students to also list what should not be in a strong claim. Students will use their critical thinking about Part 1 to determine criteria on their own in Part 2. I recommend using this activity as part of my deep-dive lesson on writing essay claims; it would also work as a stand-alone before or after claim instruction, or as a pre-check before embarking on essays with your students. It will give you valuable information on students' current concept of claims to help you identify gaps and opportunities for clarification or re-teaching.

Objectives: SWBAT identify strong claims and determine qualifications for strong claims

Standards: W.8.1a/W.9-10.1a/W.11-12.1a

In this resource:

• One-page worksheet
• Clear, concise instructions for both parts of the activity
• Answer key