Source Strength Test

This worksheet supports students in Grades 5, 6, and 7 as they build essential research, source evaluation, credibility analysis, evidence assessment, and critical reading skills. Students examine a source excerpt and systematically evaluate author expertise, publication date, publisher reliability, and quality of evidence using a structured checklist and written explanations.

Learning Goals

• Source Credibility Evaluation (Grades 5-7): Analyze key indicators such as author expertise, publication context, and supporting evidence.
• Research Skills Development: Practice breaking down sources into clear, measurable components rather than relying on first impressions.
• Evidence Quality Analysis: Determine whether claims are supported with facts, data, or reliable references.
• Critical Reasoning & Justification: Write brief explanations that justify ratings using text-based reasoning.

Instructional Benefits

• Teacher-Designed Format: Created by educators to align with ELA research and literacy standards.
• Structured Grid Layout: Helps students organize thinking and compare multiple credibility factors clearly.
• Flexible Classroom Use: Ideal for research units, test prep, digital literacy lessons, or independent practice.
• Supports Skill Transfer: Prepares students to evaluate online articles, textbooks, and informational sources.

This printable worksheet helps students strengthen analytical reasoning, research literacy, and critical evaluation skills needed for academic success. By examining author expertise, evidence quality, and publication details, learners develop habits of careful, informed reading. Whether used in a classroom or homeschool environment, this resource provides a clear, repeatable process for judging source reliability with confidence.

This worksheet is part of our credibility of sources worksheets collection.