Lesson Plan

• Identify and formulate a focused research question related to a social issue.
• Collect, evaluate and record evidence for credibility and relevance.
• Construct a logical line of reasoning that links evidence to a clear claim.
• Integrate counter‑arguments and assess alternative perspectives.
• Cite all sources accurately using a consistent referencing style.

• Projector and screen
• Whiteboard and markers
• Printed worksheet with evidence‑table template
• Laptops/tablets for online research
• Citation‑style guide handout (Harvard/APA)
• Assessment rubric sheet

Begin with the provocative statement “Social media has a greater positive impact than negative impact on young people.” Ask students to share one personal observation that supports or challenges this claim. Review briefly the research‑process steps they have previously learned and explain that today they will turn that research into a coherent line of reasoning. Success will be measured by a clear argument, balanced counter‑points and correct citation.

1. Do‑now (5') – Write an opinion sentence on the social‑media statement and note one piece of evidence you already know.
2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Present the research process and components of a line of reasoning using a flowchart.
3. Guided practice (15') – In pairs, craft a specific research question and list three types of sources needed; teacher circulates for feedback.
4. Independent research (20') – Students use laptops to locate at least three sources, recording full bibliographic details on the worksheet.
5. Evidence table & reasoning draft (15') – Fill the evidence table and write a paragraph linking each piece of evidence to the claim, including one counter‑argument.
6. Peer feedback (10') – Exchange drafts, use the rubric to check clarity, balance and citation accuracy.
7. Whole‑class share (10') – Selected groups present their reasoning; class provides brief constructive comments.
8. Exit ticket (5') – Write one specific improvement you will make to strengthen your argument before the final essay.

Summarise the eight steps from question formulation to presenting a reasoned argument, highlighting the importance of evaluating evidence and acknowledging alternative views. Collect exit tickets and remind students to revise their paragraph into a full essay for homework, applying the structured argument format.