How to approach the synthesis exam (A research essay with all of the research done) ((Hooray!))

Entering a “conversation” To be successful on the synthesis portion of the AP Language exam you will need to “enter a conversation” with the authors of the documents and sources. In other words, acknowledge that a debate exists and you must then become a part of the exchange.

#1 – Read the sources CAREFULLY! Just as we do in analysis, read and annotate the sources carefully. There is an extra 15 minutes on the exam for you to do this. Take advantage of it. If you misinterpret the document you may cite incorrect evidence. Your goal is to understand the claim each author/source makes.

#2 – Analyze each source Questions to ask as you annotate: What claim is the source making about the issue? What data or evidence does the source offer in support of that claim? What are the assumptions/beliefs (explicit or unspoken) that warrant using this type of evidence or data to support the claim? Don’t forget to look at where the source came from, the date of publication, and where it was published (what medium too)

#3 – Find and establish a position Begin by generalizing in your mind (or on paper) your stand on the issue. Ask yourself, “What are two or three possible positions on this issue that I could take?” “Which of those positions do I really want to take?” “Why?”

Keep an open mind Now that you have “entertained” a few questions you MUST keep an open mind. Jumping to quick conclusions could result in oversimplification of the topic. All of the synthesis prompts will be based on issues that require careful and critical thinking. They will be nuanced in nature – not black or white but grey. The issues will be complex!

#4 – You need to ARGUE! (sort of) Create an imaginary conversation between yourself and each of the writers/authors of the sources. “Would the writer agree with your position/claim? Disagree? Why? Would he/she want to qualify it in some way?” This may sound silly but it is the most important step – it is the heart of synthesis.

#5 – Now DO something with that conversation! Based on this imagined conversation you (the writer) should refine your thesis statement and sub-claims. Your thesis/claim is what will guide your whole paper. It must be strong and central and should appear relatively quickly in your paper. Don’t beat around the bush - make a BOLD statement.

#6 – The final step It’s time to prove your claim. Now is the time to incorporate within your own argument the conversations you had with each of the sources. Try saying things like “Source A takes a position similar to mine…” “Source C would refute my ideas but here’s why I maintain that they are valid…” “Source B offers a slightly different perspective, one that I would alter (qualify) a bit…” Actually, using the name of the writer/author is better than saying “Source A.” Try, “Michaelson takes a position similar to mine when he states…”

Same, Same, but Different: Much like a DBQ, you will be analyzing different sources to qualify/argue a certain statement. Reading comprehension is essential on both exams. You MUST cite sources in support of a thesis in each exam.

Similarities Synthesis DBQ Use sources to support a thesis Uses documents to support a thesis Must cite sources Do not simplify argument – no “laundry list.” Must enter into a “conversation.” Must understand the complexity of historical issues to enter into the “conversation.” Develop a clear, organized argument.

Differences Synthesis DBQ Sources provided (primary and secondary sources) Documents provided (primary documents only) Outside information not required (although it can show insight and voice) Outside information required. Must use a minimum of three sources Must use more than half of the documents. Prompt has three parts: directions, introduction and assignment. Directions with a statement or question.

The cow is in front of you – it’s just in a different form!