Introduction to Claim, Evidence, and Reasoning (CER)

Main ideas / concepts conveyed

• CER (Claim, Evidence, Reasoning) is presented as a simple method for organizing thinking and writing, especially when arguing.
• The goal of CER is to ensure ideas build upon each other, making arguments sound logical and focused.
• CER helps writers strengthen statements by moving from:
  1. What you believe (Claim)
  2. What supports it (Evidence)
  3. How/why it proves it (Reasoning)

Methodology / instructions (detailed)

CER structure

• Claim
  • The main argument or idea you are trying to prove or communicate.
• Evidence
  • Information that supports the claim, such as:
    • A study (data/findings)
    • Personal experience
    • A quote
    • Logic
  • Key idea: a claim without evidence is weak.
• Reasoning
  • The explanation of why the evidence supports the claim.
  • Described as connecting “the dots” between the claim and the facts.

Example #1: Uniforms & bullying

• Claim: Schools should require uniforms because they help reduce bullying.
• Evidence: A study across 50 middle schools found schools with uniforms had 30% fewer bullying incidents than schools without uniforms.
• Reasoning: Uniforms reduce differences in clothing that can make someone a target, decreasing judgments based on appearance and helping create a safer, more equal environment.

Example #2: Sleep & school performance

• Claim: Getting enough sleep each night helps students perform better in school.
• Evidence (personal example): The speaker stayed up late playing video games, had trouble focusing, then improved after going to bed earlier; grades increased and they felt more awake.
• Reasoning: Without enough sleep, the brain can’t rest and recharge, making concentration harder; with more sleep, students can focus, understand lessons, and do better.

Formula / prompt for practice

• Follow the simple CER sentence structure:
  • “Claim”
  • “This demonstrates / This shows …”
  • (then provide evidence and reasoning)
• Practice task:
  • Choose any topic
  • Write a single paragraph that includes:
    • A focus claim
    • Evidence supporting the claim
    • Reasoning explaining why the evidence proves the claim

Good luck!

Speakers / sources featured

• Speaker (unnamed): Uses personal experiences (gaming/sleep affecting focus and grades).
• Source mentioned (general): A study conducted in 50 middle schools (no author/title provided).