Da VIP Academy / GED / RLA / Extended Response Writing
Writing With Evidence
Build body paragraphs that quote, explain, and connect evidence to the thesis.
How it works
Claim, evidence, explanation
Each paragraph: state the point, quote or paraphrase the source, then explain in your own words why it supports your thesis. The explanation is where most points are earned.
Address the other side
One or two sentences naming the opposing argument and its weakness strengthens the essay noticeably.
Worked examples
Turn a quotation into a body paragraph.
- Point: Letter A grounds its claim in measured behavior.
- Evidence: 'ridership on the daytime 74 has dropped 18 percent.'
- Explanation: a citywide measure applies beyond one person's circle.
Words to know
- Counterargument
- The opposing view, stated fairly before you answer it.
Test-day tips
- • Never end a paragraph on a quotation — end on your explanation.