In today's educational landscape, critical thinking and analytical skills are highly valued. One approach to developing these skills is through the use of the Claim Evidence Reasoning (CER) framework. This framework provides a structured method for students to engage with complex topics, evaluate evidence, and construct well-supported arguments.
What is Claim Evidence Reasoning (CER)?
Claim Evidence Reasoning is a framework used to develop critical thinking and scientific literacy skills. It involves making a claim, providing evidence to support that claim, and explaining the reasoning behind the connection between the claim and the evidence. This framework is widely used in science education to help students develop a deeper understanding of scientific concepts and principles.
The Components of CER
The CER framework consists of three main components:
- Claim: A statement that answers a question or addresses a problem. The claim should be clear, concise, and specific.
- Evidence: Data, observations, or research findings that support the claim. The evidence should be relevant, accurate, and reliable.
- Reasoning: An explanation of how the evidence supports the claim. The reasoning should be logical, coherent, and well-supported.
Example of CER in Action
Let's consider an example of CER in action. Suppose we want to investigate the question: "Does the amount of sunlight affect the growth of radish plants?"
Claim: Radish plants grown in areas with more sunlight will grow faster than those grown in areas with less sunlight.
Evidence: Data from an experiment shows that radish plants grown in areas with 6 hours of direct sunlight per day grew an average of 5 cm in 7 days, while those grown in areas with 2 hours of direct sunlight per day grew an average of 2 cm in 7 days.
Reasoning: The evidence suggests that the amount of sunlight affects the growth of radish plants. This is because sunlight provides the energy needed for photosynthesis, which is essential for plant growth. With more sunlight, the plants are able to undergo more photosynthesis, resulting in faster growth.
Benefits of Using CER
The CER framework offers several benefits for students, including:
- Improved critical thinking skills: By evaluating evidence and constructing arguments, students develop their critical thinking skills.
- Enhanced scientific literacy: CER helps students understand the scientific process and develop a deeper appreciation for the nature of science.
- Better argumentation skills: Students learn to construct well-supported arguments and evaluate the arguments of others.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Claim Evidence Reasoning framework is a powerful tool for developing critical thinking and analytical skills. By providing a structured approach to evaluating evidence and constructing arguments, CER helps students develop a deeper understanding of complex topics and prepares them for success in an increasingly complex world.
Gallery of Claim Evidence Reasoning Examples
FAQs
What is the Claim Evidence Reasoning framework?
+The Claim Evidence Reasoning framework is a structured approach to developing critical thinking and analytical skills. It involves making a claim, providing evidence to support that claim, and explaining the reasoning behind the connection between the claim and the evidence.
What are the benefits of using the Claim Evidence Reasoning framework?
+The Claim Evidence Reasoning framework offers several benefits, including improved critical thinking skills, enhanced scientific literacy, and better argumentation skills.
How can I use the Claim Evidence Reasoning framework in my teaching practice?
+You can use the Claim Evidence Reasoning framework in your teaching practice by incorporating it into your lesson plans and activities. Encourage students to make claims, provide evidence to support those claims, and explain the reasoning behind the connection between the claim and the evidence.