Layering with Claims

Layering Reading and Writing To Arrive At A Claim

Effective argument writers seek out a variety of sources that represent a variety of perspectives on a given topic. The sources may be text, videos, cartoons, images, interviews, speeches, podcast, info graphics – the possibilities are endless. So, just as someone might layer their clothing to make a fashion statement, good writers of argument layer their reading and writing to arrive at an informed claim that makes a statement

Layering the reading of sources and writing in response to sources allows students to imagine how a gut reaction to something may change after gathering evidence about a topic. Students begin to grapple with the complexity of argument as more than a simple pro or con.

Layering Reading and Writing to Arrive at A Claim demonstrates an instructional process that provides student practice in the layering of annotated reading, reflective writing, and critical thinking to support the gathering of information from sources. In the process, students also consider multiple perspectives, develop a recursive claim, and complete a teacher-guided short first draft. The guide includes links to additional teacher support materials.

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