“Students analyse how arguments are constructed and evaluate how effectively language and reasoning support an idea or position.”
How this handout aligns
The guide gives students a shared language for identifying flawed reasoning and judging how arguments could be improved.
Most useful in persuasive writing, debate, media analysis, and any task where students need to critique reasoning rather than only content.
“Students participate in discussion by responding to ideas with reasons, examples, and challenges that are evidence-based and respectful.”
How this handout aligns
The detect-and-repair scaffold encourages students to explain what is weak in an argument and how it could be strengthened, rather than just dismissing it.
Useful for classroom talk norms as well as written analysis.
“Students recognise that the way ideas are framed can reinforce power, stereotype, or manipulation, and they examine how texts position audiences.”
How this handout aligns
The handout helps students notice when emotional or simplistic reasoning masks weak evidence, especially in public-facing texts and media.
Most useful when fallacies are taught as part of critical citizenship, not just formal logic vocabulary.
Puna Kōrero — Sources
Ministry of Education. (2007). The New Zealand Curriculum. Learning Media.
Ministry of Education. (2021). Te Mātaiaho: The Refreshed New Zealand Curriculum. Ministry of Education.
Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand. (2021). Tātaiako: Cultural Competencies for Teachers of Māori Learners. Teaching Council.
Mātauranga Māori Lens
This curriculum companion is informed by mātauranga Māori — the holistic body of Māori knowledge, values, and practices. Kaiako are encouraged to draw connections between the content and tikanga, whanaungatanga, and students's turangawaewae (place and belonging). Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles of partnership, participation, and protection should shape how this material is introduced and discussed in the classroom.