1. Which piece of evidence is best and why?! Claim: Gang members should be considered child soldiers. – “Chicago police have incarcerated most of the former (gang) leadership. – “Members of the Englewood community are involuntarily involved in gangs, simply based on the blocks on which they live.” – “However, no such formal conceptualization of gang members as child soldiers exists in America.”

2. Chicago is not a war zone. Evidence: – “It’s easier in this community to get a gun than a computer.” Explanation: – Just because people have access to guns, doesn’t mean that they are at war. Guns can be used for protection. Not everyone with a gun is trying to kill someone.

3. Chicago is a warzone. Evidence: – “It’s easier in this community to get a gun than a computer.” Explanation: – Wars are characterized by violence and guns. Because it is so easy for people to get guns, it is also easy for them to kill each other. Retaliation then sparks more killing, just like in a war.

4. Gang members should be considered child soldiers. Evidence: – “Members of the Englewood community are involuntarily involved in gangs, simply based on the blocks on which they live. Explanation: – Just like child soldiers, these young people have no choice. They have to be in a gang in order to survive and be protected.

5. Gang members should not be considered child soldiers. Evidence: – “Members of the Englewood community are involuntarily involved in gangs, simply based on the blocks on which they live. Explanation: – Every person in a neighborhood isn’t forced to be in a gang. These people are choosing to be a part of them.