Model and guided practice

Support an Answer with Textual Evidence

Classroom copy · 6 October 2026

Answer a how question about an original informational passage, select accurate details from different parts of the text, and explain how those details support the answer.

1 · Watch the model

Amira’s paper stars

Invented instructional example.

Amira set a small basket of paper stars beside the art table. A sign above it said, “Choose one for your notebook.” Before the next group came in, she moved the basket beside the classroom door. When the students entered, several stopped at the basket and took a star.

Read: Amira’s paper stars

Read “Amira’s paper stars.” Why did Amira move the basket beside the door? Use two details from the scene and explain how they support your answer.

Answer: Amira moved the basket so students would notice it and take a star as they entered.

Evidence: The sign invited students to choose a star, and the basket was beside the door before the next group arrived.

Explanation: Those details show why the new location made the activity easy to notice at arrival.

2 · Try together

Mei clears a path

Invented instructional example.

On the class shelf, a dictionary leaned against a row of thin notebooks. Mei slid the dictionary to the lower shelf, then placed a small label on the open space. When Mei’s partner reached for a notebook, the partner pulled one out without moving the dictionary.

Read: Mei clears a path

With a partner, answer: What change made it easier to reach a notebook? Use at least two details from “Mei clears a path.” Then explain how one detail supports your answer. First identify the change; next point to what happened afterward.

Partner draft