Independent Reading Answer pg. 244, #1

Analyzing the Text pg. 244

Cite Text Evidence.  Support your responses with evidence from the text.

QUESTION 1

EVALUATE.  In “What the Brain Says about Maturity,” what is the main reason the author gives to support his claim?

ACADEMIC VOCABULARY:  Claim, Reason 

ANSWER 1

Steinberg’s position is that there is not one particular age at which a minor becomes an adult; the main reason he gives is that brain science shows that different parts of the brain mature at different times.

Mini-Lesson

"Reasons" vs. "Reasoning"

In C.E.R.S. "Reasoning" is explaining the Evidence and how to proves the Claim.  It may include paraphrasing the evidence in your own words, connecting the dots between the ideas for the reader, or using logic to explain how the Evidence supports the Claim and why.

For example, if a claim was that Crest Toothpaste is the best brand, some evidence might be a study that says that 4 out of 5 dentists recommend Crest.  Reasoning would then explain what that fact means:  how the research was done, why most dentists make this choice, and why dentists are the experts for choosing toothpaste.

In other writing, such as this informational text, a "Reason" is an explanation for the claim -- sort of like an excuse.  For example, if a claim was that peanut butter is the best lunch food for sandwiches, one reason might be because it stores at room temperature unlike meat.  Another reason might be that it both vegetarians and omnivores can enjoy peanut butter.  

In "Reasoning" you are explaining evidence to support a claim.  With "Reasons" you are ticking off reasons why without explaining evidence.