How To Write A Synthesis Essay College Board

How to Write a Synthesis Essay College Board: A Guide for the Perplexed (and Slightly Terrified)

Okay, so you’ve been tasked with writing a synthesis essay for the College Board. You’re probably thinking, “Great, another essay!” But hold on, this isn’t your average high school essay. This is a synthesis essay, which means you’re going to have to take information from multiple sources and combine them to form your own unique argument.

Think of it like this: You’re a chef, and you’ve been given a bunch of different ingredients. Your job is to take these ingredients, combine them in a creative way, and create a delicious dish.

And just like a chef, you need to follow a recipe (or in this case, a set of guidelines) to ensure your essay is a masterpiece.

So, how do you write a synthesis essay that will impress the College Board and earn you a 6 (or even a 5)?

Let’s break it down, step-by-step, so you can avoid a culinary disaster (or at least, a disastrous essay).

Step 1: Analyze the Prompt Like a Detective

The first step is to analyze the prompt. This is your starting point, so make sure you understand exactly what the prompt is asking for.

Here’s where you need to put on your detective hat:

1. What is the topic? What are you being asked to write about?
2. What is the question? What is the specific question you need to answer in your essay?
3. What are the sources? What sources are you being given to work with?
4. What are the expectations? What does the prompt want you to do with the sources?

Remember, the prompt is your guide. It’s like a map that helps you navigate the essay. Don’t just skim it; really dissect it and understand all the nuances.

Step 2: Read the Sources Like a Bookworm

Once you’ve analyzed the prompt, it’s time to dive into the reading material. These sources are your ingredients, and you need to understand them thoroughly before you start cooking up your essay.

Here’s how to approach the reading like a true bookworm:

1. Read each source carefully. Pay attention to the main point of each source and the evidence used to support it.
2. Take notes. While you’re reading, jot down key points, interesting quotes, and any arguments that stand out to you.
3. Highlight or underline important information. This will make it easier for you to find the information you need later on.

Pro Tip: Don’t just passively read. Actively engage with the sources. Ask yourself questions like:

• What is the author’s main point?
• What evidence does the author use to support their point?
• Do I agree with the author’s point? Why or why not?
• How does this source relate to the topic and question?

Step 3: Write a Thesis Statement That’s a Statement of Intent

Now that you’ve analyzed the prompt and read the sources, you need to develop a thesis statement. This is the heart of your essay, the argument you’re going to make.

Here’s the deal with a thesis statement:

• It needs to be clear and concise.
• It needs to be debatable.
• It needs to be supported by evidence from the sources.

Think of your thesis statement as your mission statement. It tells the reader what your essay is about and where you stand on the topic.

Example:

If the prompt asks you to analyze the role of technology in society, your thesis statement could be something like:

• “Technology has both positive and negative impacts on society, leading to increased connectivity but also potential for social isolation.”

Step 4: Create a Minimal Outline: Your Roadmap to Success

Now that you have your thesis, it’s time to organize your thoughts. An outline helps you structure your essay and ensure that it flows logically. But don’t get bogged down with a super detailed outline.

Keep it simple and focused:

1. Introduction: Start with a hook that grabs the reader’s attention and introduce your topic. Then, present your thesis statement.
2. Body Paragraphs: Each body paragraph should focus on a specific point that supports your thesis. Use evidence from the sources to support your points.
3. Conclusion: Summarize your main points and restate your thesis.

Pro Tip:Each body paragraph should be like a mini-essay . It should have its own topic sentence, supporting evidence, and concluding sentence.

Step 5: Write Your Essay: The Moment of Truth

Now it’s time to write your essay. This is your opportunity to showcase your understanding of the topic and your ability to synthesize information from multiple sources.

Here are a few tips for writing a stellar synthesis essay:

1. Don’t just summarize the sources. Your essay should be more than just a collection of summaries. Instead, use the sources to support your own argument.
2. Use transitions. Transitions help your essay flow smoothly and connect your ideas.
3. Cite your sources. Make sure to cite your sources correctly to avoid plagiarism.
4. Don’t be afraid to disagree with the sources. You don’t have to agree with everything you read. If you have a different opinion, explain why.
5. Write in a clear and concise style. Use strong vocabulary and avoid jargon.

How to Get a 6 on the Synthesis Essay: The Secret Sauce

Getting a 6 on the synthesis essay is not just about writing a good essay. It’s about demonstrating a nuanced understanding of the sources and your ability to synthesize information effectively.

Here are some key ingredients for a 6-worthy synthesis essay:

1. Demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the sources. This means going beyond just summarizing the source material. You need to analyze the sources, explain their arguments, and show how they relate to each other.
2. Use evidence from the sources effectively. Don’t just throw in random quotes. Use evidence to support your points and explain how it connects to your thesis.
3. Place the evidence in conversation with each other. This means showing how the different sources interact and how they can be used to support your argument.
4. Avoid vague language. Be specific and clear in your writing. Don’t leave the reader guessing.

Synthesis Essay vs. DBQ: Similarities and Differences

You might be wondering how the synthesis essay is different from a DBQ (Document-Based Question). While they share some similarities, there are also important differences.

Here’s the breakdown:

The synthesis essay is more about demonstrating your critical thinking skills, your ability to analyze information and synthesize it into a coherent argument. The DBQ, on the other hand, is more about your knowledge of history and your ability to analyze historical documents.

Synthesis Essay Examples: Learn from the Best

The College Board provides a wealth of resources to help you learn how to write a synthesis essay. This includes sample student responses, scoring commentary, and even chief reader comments.

Take a look at these resources:

• The College Board website: You can find a lot of helpful information on the College Board website, including sample essays and scoring guidelines.
• AP Lang synthesis essay examples: Check out released examples from previous years, complete with scoring commentary and comments from the Chief Reader.

The Bottom Line: Don’t Panic, Synthesize!

Writing a synthesis essay can seem daunting at first, but it’s really just a matter of following a few simple steps. Analyze the prompt, read the sources critically, develop a strong thesis, create a simple outline, and write your essay with clarity and precision.

Remember, the synthesis essay is an opportunity to show off your critical thinking skills and your ability to synthesize information from multiple sources. So, embrace the challenge, put on your thinking cap, and create a synthesis essay that will make the College Board stand up and take notice!

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