Intro to Synthesis!

The synthesis essay is usually Free Response Question ____ on the AP Lang exam.

• 1

• 2

• 3

• 4

The synthesis essay asks students to synthesize (or cite/quote/use) at least __ sources.

• 2

• 3

• 4

• 5

True or False: The Synthesis Essay does not require students to forumlate an argument or position.

• TRUE

• FALSE

How long do students have to read the sources?

• 10 minutes

• 15 minutes

• 20 minutes

• 40 minutes

Answer explanation

Although technically there are only 15 minutes billed as a "reading period," students may take less or more time as needed to read the sources. You should read until you find at least three sources you can use to make your argument, ideally all the sources if you can.

TRUE or FALSE: When reading the synthesis prompt, students should carefully read the context paragraph, identify the task, and brainstorm a tentative position.

• TRUE

• FALSE

TRUE or FALSE: It is strongly advised that students do not waste time annotating the sources.

• TRUE

• FALSE

TRUE or FALSE: It is very helpful to create a quick outline before writing your synthesis essay.

• TRUE

• FALSE

Of the choices below, which one is NOT a common MISTAKE students make on the synthesis essay?

• Students fail to use at least 3 sources

• Students summarize sources instead of using them to support an argument

• Students use sources to effectively write a counterargument and/or rebuttal

• Students don't use the best sources to support their position.

TRUE or FALSE: Students can earn extra points for using all of the sources (i.e. more than the required 3).

• TRUE

• FALSE

Answer explanation

Although there are no extra points for using all of the sources, generally speaking the higher-scoring essays use most of the sources well. I would say using 4-5 sources and putting them in conversation with each other is the indication of a truly great essay.

TRUE or FALSE: For the synthesis essay, it is essential to cite one's sources and include a parenthetical citation at the end of the referenced source material like this: (Source A) or (Author).

• TRUE

• FALSE

Answer explanation

Technically, you could also introduce the full title and author of the source before the quoted/cited material and still get the credit for citing it, but that takes more time. I advise students to ALWAYS include the parenthetical citation as a backup.