Explain from the Evidence
Students take a mixed case file — two cause pairs and one coincidence — and write a 5–7 sentence explanation that names the cause chain with at least two different causal connectors, cites at least three evidence numbers, and ends with one honest line about what the evidence does not prove.
Purpose
Teachers: this lesson pulls EC-01 and EC-02 together. Students produce a short, evidence-based causal explanation that puts two supported links in order, uses because and so accurately, and names one thing the evidence does not prove — the foundation for the Compare arc and for the planned Qualify and Argue pathways. Keep the target at 5–7 sentences: the thinking, not the length, is the work.
Grammar target
Write a 5–7 sentence explanation that names at least three numbered pieces of evidence, uses at least two different causal connectors (because, so, because of), and honestly marks one relationship that is not confirmed.
Essential question
How do I explain, from the evidence, why the file server shut down — and say what the evidence does not prove?
Objective
Students can write a 5–7 sentence causal explanation that names at least three numbered pieces of evidence, uses at least two different causal connectors correctly, and does not claim a cause the evidence cannot support.
Where this lesson sits
Lesson 3 of 3 in the Explain Causes arc. Teach the lessons in order across 3 class periods.
- EC-01 · Cause, Effect, or Coincidence?
- EC-02 · Say Why It Happened
- EC-03 · Explain from the Evidence (this lesson)
Practise this lesson
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