The Synthesis Essay

Synthesis The combination of idea to form a theory or coherent whole To synthesize in writing one needs to combine their own ideas with outside sources fluidly

What is the synthesis essay? You will be given a prompt: Television has been influential in United States presidential elections since the 1960’s. But just what is this influence, and how has it affected who is elected? Has it made elections fairer and more accessible, or has it moved candidates from pursuing issues to pursuing image?

You will be given six sources that present both perspectives: http://apcentral.collegeboard.com/apc/public/repository/ap05_englang_synthesi_46827.pdf

In 15 minutes you need to decide what your opinion is on the topic AND how you will incorporate the sources into your essay. You will have 40 minutes to write the essay. YOU MUST use the facts and opinions presented in the sources to support your opinion. YOU CANNOT use “outside” sources but you may bring in other evidence from personal experience or other knowledge.

A Simple Structure: Introduction: Open with an engaging hook. Identify/clarify the issue at hand. Present a clear, direct thesis statement. Body Paragraphs: Topic sentence: Give one reason in support of your thesis. Explain as necessary. Present specific supporting evidence (quotes from the provided sources—consider other evidence as well but don’t make this your central evidence). CITE SOURCES (may cite “Source A” or “Source B”) Explain the significance of the specific supporting evidence (e.g., what does the evidence show or suggest as true?) Concluding Paragraph: Draw further significance from the reasons and evidence presented. Bring the paper to a thoughtful ending. Think of answering the “So what?” question. So now that you have presented this information, what will your reader do with that information?

Suggestions for Success This is an opinion piece. HAVE AN OPINION. STATE THAT OPINION IN YOUR INTRO! Each source provided will be different. Consider the source to determine the quality of the source in determining the value of the source and claims made by the source. Create an outline to organize ideas and align sources. Carefully read EACH source. Make notes at the bottom of each source regarding what the source says and how you might use the source in your essay. Consider including a concession. NOT REQUIRED. Less is more, take the time to fully develop, support with evidence and analyze a claim you make.

Evaluation Now look through the three synthesis essays given to you. Each has been scored. As you read each essay write a written response to the following questions (yes, you will write three responses): Overall, why did the essay receive a score of 8, 7, or 6? What made the writer’s introduction strong? Examine the strongest body paragraph. Identify the body paragraph and explain specifically what made the paragraph strong. Cite specific examples. How many sources did the writer use? Where did the writer use these sources? Did the writer draw a conclusion in the concluding paragraph? What did he/she say to answer the question “So what?” What useful tools can you draw from your reading of the essay to apply to your own synthesis response?