Pillars of Lewis’s Argument

This analytical worksheet is designed for students in Grades 8, 9, and 10 to strengthen comprehension of philosophical argumentation by breaking down the three lectures that make up C.S. Lewis’s The Abolition of Man. Learners identify the main claim of each lecture, note key supporting evidence, and assess how Lewis builds a cumulative case for objective moral value and universal moral law. The structured format supports clarity, synthesis, and disciplined reasoning.

Learning Goals

• Identifying Main Ideas & Supporting Details (Grades 8-10)
  Students distinguish central claims from examples, explanations, and evidence.
• Understanding Argument Structure
  Learners analyze how each lecture functions as a “pillar” supporting Lewis’s overall thesis.
• Evaluating Logical Reasoning
  Activities focus on how Lewis connects premises to conclusions across the text.
• Synthesis of Complex Ideas
  Students integrate ideas across lectures to see the coherence of Lewis’s philosophy.

Instructional Benefits

• Teacher-Created Resource
  Designed by educators to align with secondary ELA, philosophy, and nonfiction analysis standards.
• Clear, Structured Breakdown
  Guided sections reduce cognitive load while preserving intellectual rigor.
• Supports Close Reading & Note-Taking
  Works well alongside reading or as a consolidation/review activity.
• Prepares Students for Writing & Discussion
  Summaries and analyses provide a strong foundation for essays, debates, and seminars.
• Flexible Classroom Use
  Ideal for classwork, homework, assessment prep, or philosophy units.
• Printable & No-Prep
  Easy to implement in classroom or homeschool settings.

This Pillars of Lewis’s Argument worksheet helps students understand not just what C.S. Lewis argues in The Abolition of Man, but how he constructs his case across three interconnected lectures. By identifying claims, evidence, and logical progression, learners strengthen analytical reading, critical thinking, and confidence working with complex philosophical texts.

This worksheet is part of our Abolition of Man collection.