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Writing the Synthesis Essay on the AP Lang Exam

Created by Megan Pankiewicz, on behalf of The English Teachers Friend


Fall 2011

synthesize
to combine or cause to combine into a whole

Requires students to

Comprehend what they are reading Understand CLAIMS made in each source Synthesize and cite sources to SUPPORT AN ARGUMENT Consider authors purpose, audience and point of view in documents Blend ideas and source material using own unique voice and good transitions

Enter the Conversation

Prompts allow for multiple opinions and nuanced arguments Acknowledge that a debate exists must show consideration of all aspects of issue Pay very close attention to wording of the prompt and what you are asked to do

Timing

15 min. to read the sources


If you finish reading the sources, but still have time, create an outline or start writing your introduction in the green booklet

40 min. to write (suggested) Bottom line: write the synthesis FIRST

Tackle the Question

STEP 1: Jot down your answer to the prompt dont worry, you can change it later if you need to STEP 2: Read all of the sources. Important: annotate as you read each one; use + or symbols STEP 3: Know your position before you begin writing STEP 4: Write your essay

Understanding the parts of the synthesis prompt

Source list. Dont need to read this.

Reminders. Dont need to read this paragraph again.

MOST IMPORTANT PART. This is where you find out what to do in your essay.

Background information. Important to read. Pay attention to context of issue.

Its all about the VERBS. Pay careful attention to the VERB PHRASES used in the prompt this is the key to understanding what they want from your answer.

The Sources

Its like a research paper - test developers have done the research for you Primary Sources Secondary Sources One visual (picture, cartoon, advertisement, etc.) 6-8 total - MUST use THREE provided sources Suggested, not required to include outside info Use + or to mark what side of the argument they fall on (+/- if its neutral or qualifies)

Handling Citation

May synthesize through paraphrasing or direct quotes Cite ANY reference to provided sources Reference a source explicitly (direct intro) Reference a source implicitly (use parenthetical citation) Use author names OR source letters (Hint: easier to use source letters) Pick a citing format and stick with it

CAUTION

Avoid merely summarizing the sources Avoid analyzing the sources for rhetorical techniques

Important:
YOUR

ARGUMENT IS CENTRAL THE SOURCES SHOULD SUPPORT YOUR ARGUMENT.

Follow-up questions

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