1. Claim, Evidence, Interpretation

2. CEI Format
Claim: what the writer is trying to prove (your topic sentence)
Evidence: the support used to convince the reader (usually a quotation WITH lead-in)
Interpretation: the link between the evidence and the claim; why the claim is credible
THIS is the analysis!!
Shoot for at least two sentences of interpretation
Repeat “Evidence” and “Interpretation” multiple times in order to fully support your claim

3. Claims Must be arguable
For paragraphs: ONE claim with supporting evidence
For longer essays: ONE main claim with sub-claims as the topic sentence of a paragraph

4. Evidence
USE QUOTATIONS, but avoid long quotations when a short one will suffice
Be certain you understand the quotes you use
Always introduce your quotations with
lead-ins
The author explains, “Cats are very careful creatures” (Seuss 55).

5. Interpretation
Connects the evidence and the claim – why the quotation/evidence supports your point
Why is what you’re saying important? Why do we care? Prove this here!
Your interpretations should be longer than your evidence – this is YOUR writing, and thus should consist of YOUR words!

6. CEI Graphic Organizer