Structure of a Synthesis Essay What is synthesis

Structure of a Synthesis Essay

What is synthesis? § Synthesis involves connecting information from two or more texts in a meaningful way § It goes beyond just listing information about the similarities and differences; it involves taking information and asking question such as “Why is this valuable? What is the deeper meaning of this idea? and coming up with a main point that brings the information together in each paragraph

First, let’s make a list of similarities and differences between Jem and Scout: Similarities: § siblings (same father) § attend same school § good values Differences: § gender: boy and a girl § age difference § difference in maturity § deeper understanding vs. literal understanding § future goals

Choose your best points and categorize them into groups § Although there are some good points for both, I’m going to focus on the differences as these are more interesting and I can say much more about these § This will be the case for most comparison contrast essays. § the similarities can be mentioned in the introduction as I am briefly summarizing some of the main ideas to provide necessary information to the reader or they can be used as part of the ideas mentioned in the body of the essay

What categories am I going to use to discuss these differences? § A difference in age is not always important, but in this case it reveals a difference in maturity. § A difference in maturity is often revealed by a more reflective and thoughtful understanding of ideas and events. (value of relationships with others. ) § Point of view is different between boys and girls. § Understanding and appreciation for the value of relationships with others.

Thesis statement… §Now that we have some main points to use, we can think about how they are all related and create a thesis statement

What is a thesis statement? § A thesis statement is the main idea that a writer is trying to convince the reader to accept. This is usually related to theme or themes as it has some connection to the central insight about life that the author is trying to convey to the reader.

A thesis is NOT § a topic § In the form of a question § A more sophisticated thesis is not a list § It should not be vague or confrontational § Should not be answerable with a yes or no answer

A thesis statement § Has a definable, arguable claim § Should cause the reader to react by thinking, “maybe what the author says is true, but I am not convinced. I’d like to read more to find out how the author argues and supports this claim. ” § Should be clear and as specific as possible without going into specific details and examples § Should have two parts: 1. Tell readers what he or she plans to argue 2. How he or she plans to argue or defend his or her claim

A thesis statement §Should have two parts: 1. Tell readers what the person plans to argue 2. How the person plans to argue or defend his or her claim

To make sure that you’re making an argument, do the following, then cross the words out: In this essay, I will argue that Although Jem and Scout have the same upbringing and values, Jem has greater moral development than Scout since he is more mature and has a better understanding of the world.

Evidence for my defense of my thesis (claim) § Now that I have a thesis which will help me focus my ideas, I will move on to getting evidence for the main points I will write about for each of my body paragraphs.

Body paragraph 1 A difference in age is not always important, but in this case it reveals a difference in maturity. § Jem is older and wiser. For example: when Scout gets in trouble with Miss Caroline, she beats Walter Cunningham up § Jem realizes that this is wrong, and treats Walter with kindness and respect, inviting him to their home for dinner, and ensuring he is treated equally. § advice given to Scout about Miss Caroline.

Body paragraph 2: § Jem’s idea of fairness is revealed A difference in maturity is often revealed by a more reflective and thoughtful understanding of ideas and events. § Jem cries because he loses something more than just the gifts in the tree when Nathan Radley closes the knot hole with cement, he loses his connection with Boo Radley. This is illustrated by the sadness and emotion he feels. § -Scout is upset about not receiving gifts anymore. For her it’s more fun, it’s a game, and does not have a deeper meaning when he repeatedly says the fact that Tom Robinson is found guilty despite the evidence showing that he is innocent. He thinks there shouldn’t be any juries that decide the verdict (220). He wants to see a change and believes in justice like his father. § Scout realizes that what happened is wrong, but doesn’t have a deep understanding of it. § The difference in the understanding of Scout is shown by her response to Dill when he cries about the rude and disrespectful way that Mr. Gilmer treats Tom when Mr. G is questioning him. Scout says, “that’s his job” and “after all, he’s just a negro” (199; 266).

Body paragraph 3: Lastly, Jem sees the importance of the value of relationships with others. § attempts to rectify his wrong and ensures that his relationship with his father isn’t damaged § he sees that he must face his fear to get his pants back from the fence on the Radley property § Scout only sees fear and the fact Jem may get hurt or get into trouble.

Visual representation of essay § See comparison contrast essays point by point and block style doc

Questions?