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288EAL in Practice 288 · Writing

Ask for a Better Reason

After a learner gives an answer, invite a partner to ask what evidence would make the reason stronger.

5 min preparation
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01 · Make the thinking visible

Worked model: Ask for a Better Reason

Four-step teaching routine for Ask for a Better Reason. Full instructions are in Teach it.
  1. 1After a learner gives an answer, invite a partner to ask what evidence would make the reason stronger
  2. 2Select evidence that answers this question, not merely an interesting detail
  3. 3Name the source, value or quotation precisely
  4. 4Explain how the selected evidence supports or challenges the claim
Worked classroom example

Claim: the liquid warmed. Evidence: the reading increased from 20 °C to 28 °C. Link: the later reading is 8 °C higher. The colour of the beaker does not support this claim.

A model to discuss and adapt to your class.