Reader 20
How Evidence Changes an Opinion
An opinion can feel strong even when it is based on limited information. People form opinions from experience, observation, feelings, and what others tell them. These sources can be useful, but they are not always complete. Evidence adds something important because it gives support beyond personal reaction. When people see facts, examples, patterns, or results, they may need to adjust what they first believed. Changing an opinion can be uncomfortable, but it can also show maturity.
Evidence does not always force everyone to agree, but it should make people think more carefully. A person may begin with one idea and then discover information that shows the situation is more complicated. For example, someone may believe a plan failed because one person made a mistake. Later, evidence may show that the instructions were unclear, the timing was unrealistic, or the process was weak. The opinion changes because the understanding becomes deeper. Strong thinkers are not afraid to update their views when better information appears.
SPEAK
What can opinions be based on?
Why is evidence important?
Why can changing an opinion be uncomfortable?
What example does the article give about a failed plan?
What do strong thinkers do when better information appears?
WRITE
Write 5–7 sentences about how evidence can change an opinion. Include one example of an opinion that might change after new information appears. Use the sentence prompts.
If there is evidence, opinion can be changed because…
An example of an opinion changing, if you can imagine…
if new information appears during a…
LISTEN
Listen to the recording and respond.
What did the speaker say?
How do you respond to the speaker’s opinion?
Use the reading to support your response.
