Big Ideas | Page 65

Common Core State Standards–English Language Arts STRAND SAMPLE STUDENT ENGAGEMENT, GRADES 6–8 Reading Informational Text Examine claims about “clean” sources of energy (e.g., hydroelectric, solar, nuclear, and wind) and form a set of questions to ask industry experts to help determine if the claims are accurate. RI.6.8. Trace and evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text, distinguishing claims that are supported by reasons and evidence from claims that are not. RI.8.8. Trace and evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text, assessing whether the reasoning is sound and the evidence is relevant and sufficient to support the claims. Learn about San Francisco’s efforts to diversify its water supply, and then write a letter to a local newspaper editor advocating for increasing your community’s resilience with more diverse sources of water and power. For reference, see “Local Water Supply” at www.sfwater.org/localwater. Writing History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects WHST.6-8.2. Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content. History – Social Science Content Standards for California Public Schools HISTORICAL AND SOCIAL SCIENCE ANALYSIS SKILLS SAMPLE STUDENT ENGAGEMENT, GRADES 6–8 Historical Interpretation Find out how pricing rates for local water or power differ between regional and retail customers, and how rates have changed over the past 20 years. Determine reasons for those changes. 6-8.6. Students interpret basic indicators of economic performance and conduct cost-benefit analyses of economic and political issues. BIG IDEAS | Grades 6–8 | SAN FRANCISCO PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION 65