Distinguish Between the Types of Assertions

Strong, reliable and evidence-based arguments are an essential element of any persuasive text. That is why it is important that our students understand that not all opinion statements are created equal! There are types of opinions (also known as “assertions”), as outlined below:

• Bare assertions – Personalized opinion statements that are not supported by any evidence or explanation.
• Generalized assertions – Broad statements that may reflect a commonly held belief, but lack any factual support.
• Supported assertions – Specific statements that are backed up with evidence, examples or reasoning.   

In this sorting activity, students will practice distinguishing between these three types of assertions. The resource contains 24 statements on a variety of age-appropriate topics that students must sort into the correct category. By analyzing each assertion, students learn to identify whether a statement lacks support, makes broad claims or is backed by solid evidence. This process encourages critical thinking and helps students understand the importance of justification in persuasive writing.

This types of assertions sorting activity downloads as a full-color PDF or editable Google Slides file. It contains:

• Instruction page
• 3 x sort headings (Bare, Generalized and Supported Assertions)
• 24 x sentence cards
• Recording sheet 
• Answer key 

More Activities for Exploring Different Types of Assertion

This sorting activity can also be used for a variety of activities to engage your students in their learning. Here are some ideas for how you might use these cards in your classroom:

• Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down – Turn the activity into a whole-class game. Choose a card and read it aloud to the class. Have the students use their thumbs to indicate which type of assertion the sentence is: thumbs down for bare assertions, thumbs horizontal for generalized assertions and thumbs up for supported assertions.
• Show Me! – Provide students with mini whiteboards and whiteboard markers. Choose a card and read it aloud. Students must write the type of assertion on their whiteboards. After everyone has written their response, say “Show Me!”. Quickly scan responses, then pick a few students to explain their choices.
• Writing Extension – After the students have sorted the cards, have them rewrite all of the bare and generalized assertions so that they become supported assertions. This reinforces the importance of using substantiated claims in persuasive writing.

Download This Type of Assertion Sorting Activity

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the printable PDF or editable Google Slides version of this resource. You will be prompted to make a copy of the Google Slides file before accessing it.

We recommend printing this resource on cardstock for added durability and longevity. Place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access, and you’re ready to go!

This resource was created by Kaylyn Chupp, a teacher in Florida and a Teach Starter collaborator.

More Persuasive Writing Activities

Click below to explore more teacher-created, curriculum-aligned persuasive writing resources to use with your elementary students.

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