Building Critical Thinkers: Exploring Arguments Through Fairy Tales

Funded Oct 22, 2024

In our argument writing unit, students will use the fairy tale books purchased through DonorsChoose as key sources in their Fairy Tale Trials—a project that blends critical reading, argument writing, and presentation skills. Students will analyze classic fairy tales through a new lens, identifying perspectives, bias, and evidence within the text. They will then take on roles as prosecution, defense, or witnesses in a mock trial, arguing cases such as whether Goldilocks committed breaking and entering or if the Big Bad Wolf was truly guilty.

Through this unit, students develop claims, support them with textual evidence, and use reasoning (warrants) to explain their arguments. They will also anticipate counterarguments and craft rebuttals, strengthening their ability to think critically and defend their positions with logic and clarity.

In our classroom, reading is interactive and purposeful. Students read in small groups, discussing the texts to identify key details that will support their arguments. We also incorporate whole-class discussions and debate-style activities, allowing students to engage deeply with the material while sharpening their speaking and reasoning skills. The fairy tale books provide an engaging and accessible way for students to practice argument writing while exploring literature in a fun and meaningful way!”

With gratitude,

Ms. LeDuc