Evidence and Analysis in MEAL Paragraphs

Evidence and Analysis (E and A) in MEAL

• E and A are closely connected elements in the MEAL paragraph structure.

Evidence (E)

• Includes data from sources, study results, and relevant information.
• Needs proper citation to maintain credibility.

Analysis (A)

• Explains and justifies the evidence provided.
• Answers critical questions from readers.
  • So what?
  • Who cares?
  • Why is that interesting?
  • What’s new?
  • How’s it all related?
• Educates and persuades the reader.

Levels of Analysis

• Analysis should always accompany evidence.

Close Reading

• Directly explains or interprets the evidence.
• Clarifies unfamiliar terms.
• Explains the importance or implications of statistics/facts.
• Addresses the quality or context of the evidence.

Example

• Original evidence: According to the National Association of City Transportation officials, at least 60% of crosswalks should be marked at intersections with high volume, high speeds, or more lanes.
• Close reading: High volume is defined as greater than 3,000 vehicles per day. High speed is defined as greater than 20 miles per hour, and more lanes is defined as greater than two.
• Interpretation context: the NACTO's goal of 60% is too low considering other cities of similar size already have marked crosswalks at more than 75% of intersections meeting these criteria.