6th grade argument writing lessons

Grades 6–7 (ages 11–13) · 13 videos · Checked and refreshed daily

Quick answer

In 6th grade (ages 11–12), students write arguments that state a claim, support it with reasons and evidence, and answer an opposing view. This playlist starts with Khan Academy’s “What is an argument?”, then covers evidence, counterclaims and formal style, ending with TED-Ed on rhetoric. Repeat one explanation with an A–B loop.

Play all on repeat

Videos in this playlist

  1. 1What is an argument? | Reading | Khan AcademyWhat is an argument? | Reading | Khan AcademyKhan AcademyPlay from here Loop
  2. 2How parts of an argument make a whole | Reading | Khan AcademyHow parts of an argument make a whole | Reading | Khan AcademyKhan AcademyPlay from here Loop
  3. 3How do writers use examples to get their points across? | Reading | Khan AcademyHow do writers use examples to get their points across? | Reading | Khan AcademyKhan AcademyPlay from here Loop
  4. 4Using examples to make a point | Reading | Khan AcademyUsing examples to make a point | Reading | Khan AcademyKhan AcademyPlay from here Loop
  5. 5Evaluating a source’s reasoning and evidence | Reading | Khan AcademyEvaluating a source’s reasoning and evidence | Reading | Khan AcademyKhan AcademyPlay from here Loop
  6. 6Incorporating opposing viewpoints | Reading | Khan AcademyIncorporating opposing viewpoints | Reading | Khan AcademyKhan AcademyPlay from here Loop
  7. 7Identifying "hidden" viewpoints | Reading | Khan AcademyIdentifying "hidden" viewpoints | Reading | Khan AcademyKhan AcademyPlay from here Loop
  8. 8Analyzing the presentation of ideas | Reading | Khan AcademyAnalyzing the presentation of ideas | Reading | Khan AcademyKhan AcademyPlay from here Loop
  9. 9Rhetorical devices and appeals | Reading | Khan AcademyRhetorical devices and appeals | Reading | Khan AcademyKhan AcademyPlay from here Loop
  10. 10The scale of formality | Style | GrammarThe scale of formality | Style | GrammarKhan AcademyPlay from here Loop
  11. 11The power of a great introduction - Carolyn MohrThe power of a great introduction - Carolyn MohrTED-EdPlay from here Loop
  12. 126 ways to be more persuasive6 ways to be more persuasiveTED-EdPlay from here Loop
  13. 13How to use rhetoric to get what you want - Camille A. LangstonHow to use rhetoric to get what you want - Camille A. LangstonTED-EdPlay from here Loop

What should a 6th grader be able to do after this unit?

Write a clear claim, back it with reasons and relevant evidence, explain how the evidence supports the claim, address a counterclaim, and use a formal style with a strong introduction and conclusion. Grade levels vary by country and school.

How does RepeatWatch help with argument writing?

Loop the part of a lesson that names the pieces of an argument, then pause and plan your own. Slow a fast explanation to 0.75×, save the claim, evidence and counterclaim sections on keys 1–9, and use Stop after N loops to keep sessions short.

Frequently asked questions

What is a counterclaim?

A counterclaim is the opposing side of an argument. Strong writers name it and explain why their own claim still holds. The Khan Academy video on incorporating opposing viewpoints shows how to do this fairly.

Is argument writing the same as persuasive writing?

They overlap. Persuasive writing can lean on feelings, while an argument relies mainly on reasons and evidence. The TED-Ed rhetoric lesson at the end introduces both, so students can notice the difference.