The discrete-layer model is proposed to analyze the edge-effect problem of laminates under extension and flexure. Based on three-dimensional elasticity theory, the displacement fields of each layer in a laminate have been treated discretely in terms of three displacement components across the thickness. The displacement fields at bottom and top surfaces within a layer are approximated by two-dimensional shape functions. Then two surfaces are connected by one-dimensional high order shape functions. Thus the p-convergent refinement on approximated one- and two-dimensional shape functions can be implemented independently of each other. The quality of present model is mostly determined by polynomial degrees of shape functions for given displacement fields. For nodal modes with physical meaning, the linear Lagrangian polynomials are considered. Additional modes without physical meaning, which are created by increasing nodeless degrees of shape functions, are derived from integrals of Legendre polynomials which have an orthogonality property. Also, it is assumed that mapping functions are linear in the light of shape of laminated plates. The results obtained by this proposed model are compared with those available in literatures. Especially, three-dimensional out-of-plane stresses in the interior and near the free edges are evaluated and convergence performance of the present model is established with the stress results.