Performance Task:

Position Paper on the Purpose of the Common Core Standards and the Shifts
Task: Create a position paper to explain the purpose for the shifts required by the common core and how
engaging, supporting, and holding students accountable for rigorous learning aligned with the Common
Core Standards will prepare students for college and career success. Identify the curricular and instructional
practices that have hindered student achievement and argue for solutions supporting your position with
evidence from the texts.

Format: Expository position paper based on evidence from research (between 2 pages, typed)

Standards Assessed through this Task:

R.1 Read closely to determine what the text says explicitly and to make logical interferences from it; cite
specific textual evidence when writing or speaking to support conclusions

RI. 7. Integrate and evaluate content presented in diverse media and formats, including visually and
quantitatively, as well as in words.

R. 10. Read and comprehend complex literary and informational texts independently and proficiently.

W1: Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning
and relevant and sufficient evidence.

W7: Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects based on focused questions, demonstrating
understanding of the subject under investigation.

W. 8. Gather relevant information from multiple print and digital sources, assess the credibility and accuracy
of each source, and integrate the information while avoiding plagiarism.

W.9. Draw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

W10: Write routinely over extended time frames and shorter time frames for a range of tasks, purposes, and
audiences.

Expeditionary Learning 1
Key Criteria for Success aligned with NYSP12 ELA CCLS:
Below are key criteria participants need to address when completing this task.

 Cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text
says explicitly and inferentially.

 Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and
sufficient evidence

 Develop claim(s) and counterclaims fairly and thoroughly

 Establish and maintain a formal style and objective tone

 Integrate academic vocabulary into your paper

 Provide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented

Expeditionary Learning 2