In CCSS practice, what does 'cite evidence' require from a student?

• A. Summarizing the entire text in your own words
• B. Quoting or paraphrasing specific parts of the text and linking them to a claim
• C. Listing unrelated facts
• D. Providing personal opinions without references

Answer: (B)

Citing evidence means grounding your claim in the text by pulling out specific parts that directly support what you’re saying, then showing how those parts back the point. You do this by either quoting a concise, exact line or paraphrasing a brief portion in your own words, and then explaining how that piece of evidence connects to and supports your claim. This demonstrates that your reasoning comes from what you read, not from guesswork or opinion.

Why this is the right approach: it focuses on precise support tied to the text and requires you to explain the link between the evidence and your argument. It’s not about summarizing the whole text, listing unrelated facts, or giving opinions without references. If you claim a character is brave, you cite a scene or quote that shows bravery and explain how it proves that point.