Source Evaluation | Grade 8 ELA

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What Students Will Learn

Evaluate sources for reliability, credibility, and relevance
Identify bias by recognizing loaded language, missing perspectives, and author motivation
Compare information across multiple sources to verify accuracy
Apply the CRAAP test (Currency, Relevance, Authority, Accuracy, Purpose)
Distinguish between primary, secondary, and tertiary sources
Recognize misinformation and techniques used to mislead readers

Key Skills

Assessing author credentials
Checking publication dates
Identifying emotional language
Cross-referencing facts
Evaluating website domains
Recognizing propaganda techniques

Printable Materials

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Teacher Guide

Complete lesson plan with learning objectives, teaching strategies, and discussion prompts for source evaluation.

5-10 min lesson

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Student Concept Worksheet

Visual explanations of the CRAAP test, bias indicators, and source type identification with guided practice.

Guided learning

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Practice Worksheet

Practice evaluating real-world source examples, identifying bias, and comparing conflicting information.

12 questions

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FAST Format Quiz

Assessment-style questions matching Florida FAST test format with multiple choice and open response.

Test prep

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Parent Activity Guide

At-home activities for practicing source evaluation including news analysis, website review, and fact-checking games.

Family learning

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Answer Keys

Complete answer keys for all worksheets and quizzes with detailed explanations and rubrics.

Teacher only

Standards Alignment

FL B.E.S.T. ELA.8.R.2.3: Evaluate the validity and reliability of claims in a text by evaluating the relevance and sufficiency of the evidence; distinguish among facts, opinions, and reasoned judgments; and assess the credibility of sources.

Why This Matters: In today's information-rich world, students must be able to critically evaluate sources to make informed decisions. This skill is essential for academic research, responsible citizenship, and protecting against misinformation.