Writing the Synthesis Essay

What does this mean? By “synthesis,” the AP exam writers mean two things: Using sources to develop your position Citing those sources accurately

High Scoring essays: Draw a clear connection between a source and a particular point in the writer’s argument. The weaker the link between the source and the point, the lower the score. Cite the specific source being used (informal citation such as (Source A)) Weaker essays summarize a collection of points they’ve read without citing a specific source and linking it to a specific point in their essay

This type of writing is important because: It shows the ability to handle college research assignments: Judge the best sources to back up a position Incorporate the ideas of others into your own argument Use sources in the best order to develop an argument in the most logical, persuasive way

How Many sources? The prompt will ask you to use at least three. Three is the best choice to keep your essay focused and strong. Two or less would result in a lower score. We will use at least 5 in our paper this semester! Your assignment sheet says 7 – changed my mind

What do I do with the sources? -Have a conversation! Your aim is synthesis. You need to weave the three sources into your own discussion of the prompt, using them to support and develop the position you’ve chosen to take. This is called “having a conversation with your sources.” Imagine the creators of your chosen sources are sitting together in a living room discussing the topic of the prompt. Now you walk in and join the conversation. You wouldn’t simply record each author’s comments.

You would, however, respond to each person’s comments, build on them, use them to enrich your own views about the topic. You would add something to the discussion your three authors are having, and they would add something to your own understanding of the topic. You would try to understand the position of each and add your own ideas to the mix.

Direct quote vs. paraphrase Do both! Too many copied quotes make your essay appear less than original. Paraphrases allow for the integration of your ideas. However, key words and phrases that are quoted add credibility to your essay.

Practice Read the prompt on the first page of your packet: Annotate as you are reading. What is the prompt asking you to do? For tomorrow: Read and annotate each of the seven sources. For each, provide a brief summary stating the central idea(s) of the piece. Be sure to indicate the author’s stand/opinion on the topic.