Solving Mysteries and Strengthening Arguments
Students in AP Seminar recently took on the role of detectives, working in teams to crack a series of murder mystery cases. But beneath the intrigue and suspense was a deeper academic goal: learning how to construct a strong, evidence-based Line of Reasoning, which is a critical skill for the AP Seminar exam and academic writing in general.
Each group was tasked with identifying the culprit and supporting their conclusion with a clearly articulated LOR. Students built their case step by step:
- Part 1: The Claim – Who committed the crime and why?
- Part 2: The Chain of Evidence and Reasoning – How did each clue logically lead to the next?
- Part 3: The Full Line of Reasoning – A narrative that mapped the entire case from first clue to final conclusion.
- Part 4: The Reflection – Students assessed the strengths and weak points of their logic and drew connections between solving mysteries and constructing arguments in academic writing.
While the setting was fictional, the process was rigorous. By approaching evidence like real-world researchers—making inferences, following leads, and identifying weak links—students had to think critically, reason clearly, and understand that showing how you arrive at the correct answer turns a weak argument into a winning one.
The Weber School
The Weber School, a Jewish Community high school serving students from all Jewish backgrounds, prepares students for success in college and in life with comprehensive academic and co-curricular programs that inspire student exploration, leadership, and Jewish social consciousness. Many of our programs and academies are unique to Weber and can't be found at any other Atlanta-area high schools.
The Felicia Penzell Weber Jewish Community High School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.
The Felicia Penzell Weber Jewish Community High School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.
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