Help students choose relevant text evidence and explain why it supports their answer.

Text to Thinking is a 56-page printable reading and writing workbook for grades 6-8. Eight guided lessons move from a precise claim to accurate quotation, faithful paraphrase, clear reasoning and comparison of two sources. Students read original short fiction and school-based reports, weigh competing details, and revise conclusions that go beyond the text.

What is included

· 8 four-page lessons with Read, Learn, Analyze and Write pages.

· 11 original reading passages, including short fiction, reports, a letter and memos, plus 3 simulated source-evaluation cards.

· 8 worked examples, 40 guided analysis questions, 8 lesson writing tasks and 8 exit questions.

· A starting check and a four-page independent project with two new texts, an evidence planner and writing space.

· 4 reusable tools: evidence log, 12-point response rubric, source record and revision checklist.

· Answer guidance for every lesson task, 8 model lesson responses, a capstone model and starting-check answers.

· Teacher guidance, suggested pacing and options for support and extension.

· 56 workbook pages total, with black-and-white interiors and a color cover.

How to use

1. Use the starting check to identify a focus, then model the claim-evidence-reasoning reference page.

2. Read the numbered source and discuss the worked example. Use the A and B questions for guided or partner practice.

3. Have students write, cite source IDs and paragraphs, and explain how the evidence supports their claim.

4. Use the rubric for focused feedback. Finish with the independent paired-text project or reuse the tools with a teacher-selected text.

Use in middle-school ELA, close-reading lessons, writing workshops, small groups or homeschool. Allow 45-60 minutes per lesson and two 40-minute project sessions, with additional time for feedback as needed.