Synthesis Essays Making YOUR argument by using sources

YOUR ARGUMENT IS CENTRAL � The thesis should include your claim. For some prompts you should also include 2 -3 reasons why your claim is correct. These reasons guide your essay. � Be sure you read quickly yet carefully so as not to misunderstand or oversimplify a source. � NEVER start a paragraph with “In Source A…” or “Source B says…” YOU say things, not the sources.

SOURCES � Be consistent when citing sources. Always use either the letter or the name. Do not mix and match. � Be sure to tell WHY the source is important to your argument. � Avoid sentences with “this source shows” or “this source says. ” YOU say and YOU show.

MATURE WRITING � Do not repeat the introduction from the prompt. � Use advanced vocabulary. � No TRITE or BANAL words or phrases. If you thought of “a picture is worth a 1000 words” so did 85% of the other writers. � Don’t assume the reader has memorized the sources. Find the balance between a simple mention of the source and a detailed summary.

ART MUSEUM mistakes � The definition of “secure” in context � Source F – Nazis stealing art � Source E – Colonial Williamsburg � Too short � Too simple

PROMPT ANALYSIS � In your small groups, go through the 3 types of AP essay prompts (Rhetorical Analysis, Argumentation, Synthesis) � Take a sheet of paper and divide it into thirds (one paper for EACH person) � Make a list of key words or elements for each type of essay. You need 8 -10 items for each essay. � I will check these for 30 class work points.