The Claim, Evidence, Reasoning (CER) framework is a structured approach to making and supporting scientific arguments. Widely used in science education, it helps individuals articulate scientific ideas clearly and logically. This framework provides a consistent method for students to respond to scientific questions and explain their thinking, guiding them to structure inquiries and communicate findings effectively.
The Core Components of CER
The CER framework consists of three distinct yet interconnected parts: Claim, Evidence, and Reasoning.
A claim is a statement or conclusion that directly answers a scientific question or solves a problem. It represents the main point being argued and is typically a concise statement without explanation or evidence. For example, a claim might state, “Plants grow faster in sunlight.”
Evidence consists of the scientific data that supports the claim. This data can come from observations, experimental results, measurements, or established facts. The evidence presented must be relevant, sufficient, and credible to genuinely back up the claim.
Reasoning is the explanation that links the evidence to the claim. It clarifies why the evidence supports the claim, often by incorporating scientific principles, theories, or models. Reasoning explains the “how” and “why” behind the connection, providing the underlying scientific concept that makes the evidence relevant.
Constructing a Coherent CER Argument
Building a coherent CER argument involves systematically integrating the claim, evidence, and reasoning to form a complete scientific explanation. The process begins with a clear claim. Specific and relevant evidence is then selected to support it, ensuring the data directly pertains to the claim. This evidence should be empirical, meaning it comes from observations or experiments.
The reasoning component acts as the bridge, explicitly connecting the chosen evidence back to the claim. This involves explaining the scientific principles or background knowledge that justify why the evidence supports the claim. For instance, if a claim states that a chemical change occurred in a glow stick, the evidence might be a color change. The reasoning would then explain that a color change is an indicator of a chemical reaction, linking the observation to the scientific principle of chemical change.
The Significance of CER in Scientific Thinking
The CER framework holds broad importance for fostering scientific thinking, extending beyond classroom assignments. It promotes critical thinking by requiring individuals to analyze data and draw conclusions based on factual information. This structured approach helps students develop logical reasoning skills and evaluate scientific information more deeply. By engaging with CER, learners gain a better understanding of how scientific knowledge is constructed and validated.
CER also enhances effective scientific communication by providing a clear structure for articulating ideas and arguments. It encourages students to organize their thoughts and present them precisely, mirroring how scientists communicate their findings. This framework is relevant in formal science education, such as lab reports and scientific investigations, and helps individuals analyze scientific information encountered in everyday life. The ability to question claims, assess evidence, and understand reasoning is essential for scientific literacy.
Tips for Effective CER Application
Applying the CER framework effectively involves several practical considerations for crafting strong scientific explanations. Ensure the claim directly answers the question posed, leaving no ambiguity about the main point. Selecting evidence requires careful consideration; it must be sufficient in quantity and appropriate in quality to convincingly support the claim. Focus on using data that directly relates to the claim, avoiding irrelevant information.
The reasoning must be explicit and clearly connect the evidence to scientific principles or theories. This involves explaining the “why” and “how” of the relationship, rather than simply restating the evidence or claim. Avoid personal opinions or unsupported assertions, as all parts of the argument should be grounded in scientific understanding. Practicing with diverse scenarios and seeking feedback can refine the ability to construct robust CER statements.