The Synthesis Essay. 29 November 2017 AP Language & Composition

Transcription

1 The Synthesis Essay Similar to, but not the same as APUSH DBQ Must be an intelligent, respectful contributor to a conversation, not just someone who repeats the sources.

2 The Synthesis Essay Two types Argument: defend, challenge or qualify; develop a position Argue the extent that your school should establish, maintain, revise, or eliminate an Evaluative: things to consider regarding an issue Identify key issues Examine factors affecting

3 The Synthesis Essay: The prompt and task Argument Defend, challenge or qualify Develop a position Evaluative Read the prompt. Write the task in your own words. Double check yourself. Example: 2015, Honor Codes Introduces the idea of written honor codes to control cheating. Carefully read the following six sources, including the introductory information for each source. Then synthesize information from at least three of the sources and incorporate it into a coherent, well-developed argument for your own position on whether your school should establish, maintain, revise, or eliminate an honor code or honor system. Your argument should be the focus of your essay. Use the sources to develop your argument and explain the reasoning for it. Avoid merely summarizing the sources. (Proper citation instructions)

4 The Synthesis Essay: The prompt and task Argument Defend, challenge or qualify Develop a position Evaluative Read the prompt. Write the task in your own words. Double check yourself. Example: 2012, USPS Intro included brief history and current struggles of the USPS. Carefully read the following seven sources, including the introductory information for each source. Then synthesize information from at least three of the sources and incorporate it into a coherent, well-developed essay that argues a clear position on whether the USPS should be restructured to meet the needs of a changing world, and if so, how. Make sure your argument is central; use the sources to illustrate and support your reasoning. (Proper citation instructions)

5 The Synthesis Essay: The prompt and task Argument Defend, challenge or qualify Develop a position Evaluative things to consider regarding an issue Read the prompt. Write the task in your own words. Double check yourself. Example: 2014, College Education Many recent college graduates have faced record levels of unemployment. This situation has led people to question what they value about higher education. Some high school students and their parents are wondering if a college education is worth the cost. Others, however, believe that a college education prepares students for more that just a job or career. Carefully read the following six sources, including the introductory information for each source. Then synthesize information from at least three of the sources and incorporate it into a coherent, well-developed essay that evaluates whether college is worth its cost. Your argument should be the focus of your essay. Use the sources to develop your argument and explain the reasoning for it. Avoid merely summarizing the sources. (Proper citation instructions)

6 The Synthesis Essay: Reading the sources. Two methods: Decide your position first and then read for evidence Example: Evaluative: 2014, College Education [E]ssay that evaluates whether college is worth its cost. Read first and then decide your position Example: Argumentative: 2012, USPS [E]ssay that argues a clear position on whether the USPS should be restructured to meet the needs of a changing world, and if so, how.