Evaluating Ideas: Grade 8 ELA
This worksheet helps 8th-grade students practice evaluating ideas presented in texts, identifying author's purpose, and assessing evidence.
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Evaluating Ideas: Grade 8 ELA
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Read each passage and question carefully. Then, answer the questions based on your evaluation of the ideas presented. Pay close attention to author's purpose, claims, and supporting evidence.
Passage: The Benefits of Learning a Second Language
In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to communicate in multiple languages has become a highly valuable skill. Research consistently shows that learning a second language offers numerous cognitive benefits, including improved problem-solving abilities, enhanced memory, and better multitasking skills. A 2018 study published in the journal 'Cognition' found that bilingual individuals outperformed monolinguals in tasks requiring executive control. Furthermore, knowing another language can open doors to new cultural experiences, travel opportunities, and career advancements. Many international businesses prioritize candidates who are fluent in more than one language, recognizing the competitive edge it provides in global markets. Therefore, schools should strongly consider making second language acquisition a mandatory part of their curriculum from an early age.
1. What is the author's primary purpose in writing this passage?
To entertain readers with stories about learning languages.
To persuade schools to make language learning mandatory.
To inform parents about the best language learning apps.
To describe the history of language education.
2. Which piece of evidence does the author use to support the claim that learning a second language offers cognitive benefits?
Many international businesses prioritize bilingual candidates.
A 2018 study found bilinguals had better executive control.
Knowing another language opens doors to new cultural experiences.
The world is becoming increasingly interconnected.
3. The author suggests that learning a second language leads to improved problem-solving abilities, enhanced memory, and better skills.
4. The journal where the 2018 study on bilingualism was published is called ' '.
5. Evaluate the strength of the author's argument for making second language acquisition mandatory. What makes it strong or weak?
6. The author implies that all schools currently make second language acquisition mandatory.
True
False
7. Consider the following claim: 'Learning a second language is only beneficial for people who plan to work in international business.' Based on the passage, would the author agree or disagree with this claim? Explain your reasoning using evidence from the text.