Free teaching resource
Evaluate a Web Source’s Credibility
In this estimated 40-minute lesson, learners evaluate what a source can support for a specific question by checking its creator or access, purpose, evidence and method, date, and source trail. They state limits and a useful next check rather than treating one cue or a polished page as proof.
All files are free. No email address, account, payment, trial or subscription is required.
- Who it is for
- Grade 6 ELA
- Preparation
- About 5 minutes.
- Teaching time
- About 40 minutes. Planning estimate: opening 3, strategy 7, model 8, guided comparison 10, independent evaluation 10, closure 2. Not classroom-timed.
- Teacher guidance
- Separate teacher files include completed examples or answer and scoring guidance.
Materials
- Learner pages in print or editable DOCX.
- Pencil or another way to mark and draft an evaluation.
- Optional highlighter for marking source details.
Download the complete resource
- Learner copy — Editable Word file (39 KB)
- Learner copy — Printable PDF (61 KB)
- Teacher guide and answer key — Editable Word file (43 KB)
- Teacher guide and answer key — Printable PDF (98 KB)
Keep teacher guidance and answers separate from student copies. Word files contain editable text; the PDF files are ready to print.
Support and adaptation
- Read one card at a time, use the independent organizer, mark the question/creator/evidence/limit, and allow oral rehearsal, dictation, or typing without revealing a preferred schedule.
Extension
- Apply one source to a different question, identify evidence that could independently corroborate a claim, and explain how a new result would change the conclusion.
Preview
Review and use
Version 0.1.3. Independent AI release review passed. Review included a blind task or tool check, a separate instructional audit and file checks. This is not a claim of classroom testing or human certification.
Timing is estimated. Assistive-technology, Microsoft Word and Google Docs testing has not been completed. Use the editable files to adapt the resource to your learners and local curriculum.
You may print, copy and adapt the resource for your planning and classroom use under our Terms of Use. Report a resource issue.