Synthesis Essay Task Purpose A synthesis essay is

Synthesis Essay

Task- Purpose • A synthesis essay is an opportunity to create new knowledge out of already existing knowledge, i. e. , other sources. You combine, “synthesize, ” the information in your sources to develop an argument or a unique perspective on a topic. • Your thesis statement becomes a one-sentence claim that presents your perspective and identifies the new knowledge that you will create.

Prepare: • Create Essential questions for research. • Identify the ideas discussed in each resource. • Thesis – Supporting claims • How the source connects to your essential questions • Look for the relationships among those ideas.

Answering the Prompt: • Annotate the prompt, underline its verbs, and be sure you know precisely what you are being asked to do. • Answer your main question using one sentence. • Use the prompt/essential question to create your thesis. Do not go rogue! • Use thesis statement tool.

Organizing the Essay: Point-by-Point Organization (IDEAL): 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Introduction One point supported by two or more of the sources Another point supported by two or more of the sources An optional paragraph mentioning one or more major points supported in only one sources each Conclusion Source-by-Source Organization (VERY POOR): DO NOT USE! 1. Introduction 2. Summary of one source 3. Summary of another source 4. Summary of another source 5. Summary of another source 6. Conclusion

Organizing the Essay: Alternative Source-by-Source Organization (POOR): 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Introduction One major point discussed by only one source Another major point discussed by only one source Conclusion A Blended Organization (GOOD): 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Introduction One point supported by two or more sources Another point supported by two or more sources One major point supported by only one source Another major point supported by only one source Conclusion

Introduction Paragraphs • Hook/Attention Getter • • • An intriguing example A provocative quotation A puzzling scenario A vivid and perhaps unexpected anecdote A thought-provoking question • Background Information • Bridge to thesis • Information reader needs to understand the topic • TAG – Title, author , genre

Introduction Paragraphs • Thesis • Use your strongest here! • Tie it to the prompt. • Preview main points of support • Do not just list them • Preview the “So what? ”

Body Paragraphs • Each starts with a point that proves your thesis. • Use words from your thesis in your topic sentences. • Uses a transition phrase that links the point to thesis. • Reason or detail that proves your thesis is true! • Contain at least two pieces of evidence that support your point. • Should be separate sources. It helps to mix up the type of source as well. • Each body paragraph get its own outline!!!! • You should have at least 3 for the Flexam! • Use 1 -3 words on the line.

Body Paragraphs - Structure Example A 1. Point 2. Evidence Set-up 3. Direct Quote 4. Explain Quote 4. So what? (Link to prompt) Example B 1. Point 2. Evidence Set-up 3. Direct Quote 4. Explain Quote 2. So what? (Link both to the prompt)

Hook- BG- Thesis- Preview (Points A, B, & C) Body Paragraph #1 Body Paragraph #2 Body Paragraph #3 1. Point A 1. Point B 1. Point C 2. Evidence Set-up (resource #1) 3. Direct Quote 4. Explain Quote 4. So what? 2. Evidence Set-up (resource #2) 3. Direct Quote 4. Explain Quote 4. So what? 2. Evidence Set-up (resource #3) 3. Direct Quote 4. Explain Quote 2. Evidence Set-up (resource #4) 3. Direct Quote 4. Explain Quote 2. So what? – link both to the prompt 2. Evidence Set-up (resource #5) 3. Direct Quote 4. Explain Quote 4. So what? 2. Evidence Set-up (resource #6) 3. Direct Quote 4. Explain Quote 4. So what?

Conclusion Paragraph • Restate the Thesis • Use your 2 nd best one! • Summarize the “so what’s? ” • What the reader should take with them. • Clincher • • Drop the mic moment! Same type of sentences found in Hook Should leave your reader thinking about what you have written. The essay should come to a dead stop.

Things that need to happen! • • Underline all titles. Indent paragraphs. Put your name class and date in the top left corner of the paper. Title your work. • You should not use someone else's title. • Be creative! • The title of the assignment is not the title of your essay. • Research Essay, 10 th Grade Essay, Synthesis Essay ect. • Turn in your prewriting.