1. Writing for the Reader
Making sense

2. Moving from description to interpretation
Start with a thorough analysis
Use a method from WA and/or
An elements of reasoning analysis from Nosich
Describe carefully
Question if words used are best
Try to use precise words to describe
Leads to reduced wordiness and
Greater clarity

3. Interpretation stems from analysis
Organize data to attain full understanding
Ask “so what?”
Select a context or a lens through which you make your interpretations (e.g., historical, feminist, Marxist, religious, etc.)
Consider possible alternative readings/lenses
Select the interpretation that explains the most and is most interesting

4. Reasoning’s role Starts with sufficient evidence/research
Evidence must be apparent to any reasonable person
Must insure your reasoning is sound
Must accept that other possibilities exist
Everything can be interpreted because
Everything communicates whether the item is meant to or not

5. Moving to a conclusion Make the implicit explicit
Maintain a contextual lens throughout
Write what a piece seems to communicate beyond the obvious message
Consider what the author(s)’ intentions seem to be