CER is a method teachers use to strengthen student ability to analyze and write about their knowledge. CER stands for claim, evidence, and reasoning.
Through this strategy, students use given information to form a claim and use data as evidence to develop scientific reasoning. Since this science strategy is a bit like a formula, students tend to do very well and find the writing process much easier than essay writing. To learn more about CER, click here.
5 Reasons to Use CER in Your Classroom
1. CER helps teachers identify student misconceptions.
CER engages students in the learning process, so naturally, they will be able to remember and understand the material in front of them.
Using this science strategy forces students to explain their thinking in logical steps.
So, if a student has trouble understanding, it will be very easy for teachers to see where students struggle with a concept and correct their misunderstanding.
2. CER promotes student collaboration.
Claim, evidence, reasoning tasks are often done in small groups, which gives students an opportunity to collaborate with others.
This type of collaboration can help students learn from each other and develop social skills such as communication and teamwork.
3. Claim, evidence, reasoning teaches students how to write effectively.
Many students respond well to the formula to write a CER response. The formula takes the guesswork out of expectations, and responses tend to be about 6-8 sentences in length. This short length is manageable and effortless.
4. Claim, evidence, reasoning increases student achievement.
Another benefit of CER for teachers is improved student achievement. When teachers are allowed to design their own curriculum and assessments, they are able to better meet the needs of their students.
Additionally, the claim, evidence, reasoning strategy often leads to more engaged and motivated students, which can also lead to improved academic achievement.
5. CER can help teachers become more creative.
Since CER is a process, not just a lesson plan from a textbook, teachers may need to become more creative in ways to bring claim – evidence – reasoning type problems to their students. This leads to more hands on learning and fun – which is both a teacher and student win!
As you can see, the benefits of using claim, evidence, reasoning in your classroom are endless. This science strategy helps students improve their writing about science, strengthens analysis skills, and helps teachers understand student thinking.
Want to learn more about CER? Check out these blog posts below:
