5.1 Understanding the Synthesis Process

• What is the definition of synthesis in academic writing?

  Combining multiple sources
• Synthesis writing requires generating new insights rather than just reporting information.


  True
• To analyze sources effectively, you should read and annotate each source to identify its main argument
• What might a source analysis table include?

  Key information and perspectives
• Mastering synthesis is crucial for success in AP English Language and Composition.

  True
• What is the primary purpose of a thesis statement in a synthesis essay?

  Presents the writer's perspective
• Analysis and evaluation involves critically examining source material to identify connections, contradictions, and implications
• Synthesis writing requires generating new insights by combining disparate ideas.


  True
• Match the source with its key argument on climate change:

  Source A ↔️ Human-caused climate change

  Source B ↔️ Natural factors also contribute

  Source C ↔️ Climate change impacts vary globally
• A strong thesis statement for a synthesis essay must generate a new, unique insight.


  True
• Transitions in a synthesis essay are used to link ideas between paragraphs
• Steps for effectively incorporating sources in a synthesis essay

  1️⃣ Introduce the source

  2️⃣ Integrate the source material

  3️⃣ Attribute the source
• To avoid plagiarism, it is better to paraphrase rather than directly quote
• What is recommended instead of direct quoting in synthesis essays?

  Paraphrasing
• What is the first step in incorporating sources effectively in a synthesis essay?

  Introduce the source
• How should sources be attributed in a synthesis essay?

  In-text citations
• Synthesis is the process of combining multiple sources, perspectives, and ideas
• Synthesis writing involves developing a well-reasoned, supported position
• Critical thinking involves the ability to analyze, evaluate, and integrate information from diverse sources
• What is the purpose of a thesis statement in a synthesis essay?

  To present the writer's perspective
• Comparing and contrasting sources involves identifying connections, contradictions, and implications.


  True
• Developing a well-reasoned position on a topic is an example of argumentation
• What is the role of the thesis statement in a synthesis essay?

  To present the writer's argument
• Steps involved in writing a synthesis essay

  1️⃣ Craft a thesis statement

  2️⃣ Integrate sources

  3️⃣ Analyze and evaluate sources

  4️⃣ Combine ideas to generate insights

  5️⃣ Organize the essay
• What is the first step in analyzing a source for a synthesis essay?

  Read and annotate
• A strong thesis statement for a synthesis essay should present a focused argument
• What should a topic sentence in a body paragraph of a synthesis essay introduce?

  The main idea of the paragraph
• What relationships can transitions indicate in a synthesis essay?

  Comparison, contrast, cause-effect
• Avoiding plagiarism requires clearly attributing all borrowed ideas.


  True
• What is the primary reason to limit direct quotes in a synthesis essay?

  To demonstrate understanding
• Direct quotes should be used sparingly in synthesis essays.

  True
• Integrating source material involves weaving in relevant quotes, paraphrases, or summaries
• Attributing borrowed ideas is essential to avoid plagiarism.


  True
• What skill is demonstrated by combining information from diverse sources in synthesis writing?

  Critical thinking
• What creative aspect does synthesis writing require?

  Generating novel insights
• What is the purpose of a thesis statement in a synthesis essay?

  Present a clear argument
• What does the analysis and evaluation component of a synthesis essay involve?

  Critical examination of sources
• What should you identify when reading a source in a synthesis essay?

  Main argument
• What is the primary purpose of a thesis statement in a synthesis essay?

  Present a clear argument
• A strong thesis statement goes beyond summarizing sources to generate a new, unique perspective