How it works
Each box of this ACE strategy graphic organizer holds one part of a written answer. A student who fills in all three has a short paragraph that answers the question and proves it from the text.
Read the full guide
What counts as evidence, grade by grade
The Common Core reading standards ask for more each year. In 4th grade readers refer to details and examples in a text. In 5th grade they quote accurately from it. From 6th grade they cite textual evidence, and 7th grade asks for several pieces.
From the boxes to a paragraph
When the boxes are full, copy them out in order as one paragraph. On a RACE sheet the first two boxes join into a single sentence; the evidence and the explanation follow it.
- A quotation proves nothing by itself. The Explain box is where the writer says what the quoted words show.
- Evidence can be retold. A younger writer can put the detail in their own words and still give the page.
Questions and answers
What does ACE stand for in writing?
On these sheets A is Answer the question, C is Cite evidence from the text, and E is Explain how the evidence proves the answer.
What is the difference between ACE and RACE?
The RACE sheets add a step at the start: Restate the question. The writer turns the question into the opening words of the sentence, then answers, cites and explains as in ACE. Choose it for a class taught to begin an answer that way.
Is there a RACE graphic organizer PDF?
Yes. The RACE sheets, like every sheet on this page, can be saved as a PDF in place of printing. Each comes out as one Letter or A4 page.
Is there a free printable RACES graphic organizer?
Yes. It prints free on Letter or A4 with no sign-up. Its fifth box, Sum it up, gives a longer response a closing sentence, so the paragraph does not stop at the explanation.