Everything you wanted to know about Synthesis… …And more!

What I mean when I say SYNTHESIS The Synthesis Question is the first essay you will see on the AP Exam in May. The question asks you to read multiple documents that convey different positions on a subject… …and synthesize them into your own argumentative essay.

What does SYNTHESIZE actually mean? Synthesis refers to a combination of two or more entities that together form something new. So… …that means that you will need to 1st have an opinion about the subject and then read the sources to find the ones that will support your thesis. (This is why all the current events/op-eds were important!)

Briefly…what a synthesis essay is and what it’s not Yes Introduction that discusses the issue Source A says this Source B says this Source F says this Conclusion Introduction that discusses the issue Point #1 Point #2 Point #3 Conclusion Evidence from sources is woven within the essay

What does the question look like? The first 8-9 pages of your essay booklet will contain all the information you need to complete your synthesis essay. You will have an additional 15 minutes to identify your position, read your sources, and apply them to your position. You will be expected to read 6-8 sources including graphic evidence.

1st page: On the first page you will find the following information: A paragraph that explains the exigency for the discussion (essay) A paragraph that identifies the assignment (essay question) A paragraph that defines the instructions A list of sources including the author’s last name

What do you do with this information? Duh…read it! When you read the exigency paragraph you must identify any important information that is offered. Underline anything that you think might be important. Read the assignment carefully. Put the task assigned in your own words. Memorize the directions because they are always the same.

What about the rest? Each source is about a page and includes the following information: A source title A Works Cited Entry An italicized sentence or two that reveals a little about the source’s publication The article/graph/picture

How to “read” the sources Make sure your read all the extra information carefully because it reveals the context. When you read each source you need to be able to identify each of the following pieces of information: Author’s position (remember everything is an argument) 3 important pieces of evidence (this is what you will use when writing your own paper

Then you write your essay! Remember that you should take your time to plan out what you will write about College Board wants students to write essays that reveal a depth of understanding. You will not pass if all you do is summarize the previous sources. Questions?

Ready for a Scavenger Hunt? Complete the following scavenger hunt using the 2011 Synthesis question You may work with a group of 3-4 After you complete part 1 come and get part 2! Become the synthesis king/queen for a day!