•What is it? •How can I use it to elaborate my thoughts and ideas when writing?

Facts or sources to support your opinion or argument.

It is the critical link between your topic and argument.

Information from the text you read that supports your answer.

Example: People enjoy the companionship of cats. Many cats are affectionate.

How do I know people enjoy the companionship of cats? (Because cats are affectionate=evidence)

10% of students stated they always studied for their tests.

Students participate in book clubs to broaden their thinking and ideas.

The author of “Cats” said “Unlike dogs, cats do not bark or make other loud noises.”

Explains what your evidence meansThe “how” or “why”Further explains your information and

opinion

4 Kinds of Elaborations for your Evidence:

Example: (anecdote) From your own experience from what you have read or heard.

Common Sense: Things that you believe everybody knows.

Expert Opinion: The opinions of experts – this comes from research.

Statistics: This comes from research