Thinking Like a Scientist CER Writing Prompt | Introduction to Science | C.E.R.

Thinking Like a Scientist CER Writing Prompt

Help students apply their understanding of the Nature of Science with this engaging Claim, Evidence, and Reasoning (CER) writing activity!

In this standards-aligned lesson, students respond to the prompt:

"Science is just about memorizing facts from a textbook."

Using the CER (Claim, Evidence, and Reasoning) framework, students defend their position by citing evidence from their Introduction to Science lessons. This activity encourages critical thinking, scientific writing, and evidence-based reasoning while reinforcing key Unit 0 concepts.

Perfect for the end of an Introduction to Science unit, weekly writing assessments, bell work, independent practice, or formative assessment.

What's Included

• Student CER Brainstorm & Planning Page

• Student Final CER Writing Page

• Teacher Grading Rubric (20 Points)

• Teacher Sample Response & Answer Guide

• Ready-to-Print PDF

Students Will Practice

• Writing scientific claims

• Supporting ideas with evidence

• Explaining scientific reasoning

• Using scientific vocabulary

• Evidence-based writing

• Critical thinking

• Scientific communication

Perfect For

• Introduction to Science Units

• Nature of Science

• Scientific Method

• CER Writing Practice

• First Week of School

• Middle School Science

• Bell Ringers

• Exit Tickets

• Formative Assessment

• Independent Practice

Grades

Grades 6–8