1. Six Essential Tasks – In CN: [Synthesis Essay Notes]
Read
Analyze
Consider a position
Converse
Refine
Argue

2. Tasks 1 & 2 – Read closely, Then Analyze
For each source, ALWAYS:
Read the introductory info
Take note of the source – who wrote/published it?
Take note of the copyright date
Second:
Analyze the argument each source is making: 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 or beliefs (explicit or unspoken) that warrant using this evidence or data to support the claim?
Note: will need to learn how to perform such analyses of non-textual sources: graphs, charts, pictures, cartoons.

3. Tasks 3 &4 Consider Position, Converse
Third: Consider your own potential stand on the issue. Ask, "What are two or three (or more) possible positions on this issue that I could take? Which of those positions do I really want to take? Why?" Avoid oversimplifying the issue or honing in immediately on an obvious claim. Give some thought to the complexities of the prompt.
Fourth: Imagine presenting each of your best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources. Would the author/creator agree with your position? Why? Disagree? Why?

4. Tasks 5 & 6 - Refine, Argue
Fifth: On the basis of this “conversation,” refine the point that you would like to make about the issue so that it can serve as a central claim for your essay. It should appear relatively quickly in the essay, after a sentence or two that contextualizes the topic or issue for the reader.
Sixth: Argue your position. Incorporate your own thinking with the authors/creators of the sources. You should feel free to say things like, "Source A takes a position similar to mine," or "Source C would oppose my position, but here's why I still maintain its validity," or "Source E offers a slightly different perspective, one that I would alter a bit."

5. When Including Textual Evidence:
Set the Scene
Quote to Qualify
Loop for Logic

6. For tomorrow…
Must include evidence from ALL sources (just tidbits of information, NOT a summary)
To cite: (Source A) or (Last Name of Author)
May only use your Active Reading Notes