How to Outline a Synthesis Essay for AP Lang | Coach Hall Writes

Summary

In this video, the speaker provides a comprehensive guide to outlining a synthesis essay, applicable for both exams and class assignments. Key steps include thoroughly reading the prompt, asserting a tentative thesis, annotating sources effectively, and organizing body paragraphs with clear main ideas and evidence. The speaker emphasizes the importance of logical progression in paragraphs, citation accuracy, and incorporating counterarguments or rebuttals when appropriate. Additionally, the video offers tips on pacing, structuring the introduction, and drafting conclusions, making it an invaluable resource for students aiming to write strong, well-supported synthesis essays.

Takeaways

• 😀 Read the prompt thoroughly, including background information and definitions, before starting your synthesis essay.
• 😀 Convert the prompt’s statement into a question to help focus your essay on the central issue.
• 😀 Establish a tentative thesis or position before reviewing the sources to give your essay direction, but remain flexible.
• 😀 Annotate the sources effectively, using bullet points, power verbs, and summaries instead of underlining or highlighting to maintain clarity.
• 😀 Visual texts (like cartoons or photographs) may be challenging, so it’s okay to skip them initially and return after reading other sources.
• 😀 Create a system for annotating sources, such as bullet points or stars, that works without highlighters or color coding.
• 😀 When outlining the essay, plan your introduction with context to introduce the issue and a clear, defensible thesis.
• 😀 A clear, well-developed thesis statement is essential for guiding your essay and ensuring a strong argument.
• 😀 Body paragraphs should focus on a single idea, with each paragraph supporting the thesis using evidence from at least two different sources.
• 😀 Consider how many body paragraphs you want to write in advance and ensure your evidence is placed logically within each paragraph.
• 😀 For timed essays, avoid including the conclusion in your outline, but be sure to plan for it if you have more time.

Q & A

Why is it important to read the prompt carefully when preparing for a synthesis essay?

Reading the prompt carefully is crucial because it provides essential background information and defines any potentially unfamiliar terms. Understanding the prompt helps ensure that you're addressing the right issue and clarifying your stance in the essay.

How can turning the task statement into a question help with a synthesis essay?

Turning the task statement into a question helps you focus on what you're supposed to be addressing in your essay. It clarifies the specific issue or argument you're meant to tackle, making it easier to organize your ideas and research.

Why is it helpful to assert a position before looking at the sources for a synthesis essay?

Asserting a tentative position before approaching the sources helps give you direction as you analyze the materials. It guides your focus and makes it easier to evaluate which sources support or challenge your argument.

Do you need to annotate all sources during the synthesis essay preparation, especially in a timed exam setting?

No, you don't need to annotate all sources. If a source is unclear or irrelevant to your argument, it's better to skip it. Focus on the sources that will help support or challenge your thesis effectively.

What is a recommended strategy for annotating sources without using highlighters during an exam?

Instead of highlighters, you can use underlining, circling, or using bullet points. Writing commentary verbs (e.g., 'demonstrates,' 'suggests') next to important points helps you later incorporate them into your essay without cluttering the text.

How should you structure the introduction paragraph in a synthesis essay?

The introduction should include two main parts: the context and the thesis. The context sets the broader background and explains why the issue is relevant, while the thesis asserts your clear position on the matter.

What makes a thesis statement in a synthesis essay defensible and effective?

A defensible thesis statement clearly asserts a position that can be proven with evidence from the sources. It should be specific, concise, and structured in a way that guides the reader through your argument.

How many body paragraphs should you aim to write in a synthesis essay, and why is this important?

Most students write either two or three body paragraphs, depending on the time available. It's important to decide beforehand so you can manage your time efficiently and ensure the logical flow of your ideas.

Why is it beneficial to use multiple sources within a body paragraph in a synthesis essay?

Using multiple sources in a body paragraph allows you to compare and contrast different perspectives, strengthening your argument. It also demonstrates your ability to synthesize information and engage with multiple viewpoints.

Should you include a concession and rebuttal in your synthesis essay? Where should it go?

Yes, including a concession and rebuttal can strengthen your argument. Decide where to place it in your essay: it can either go in a separate paragraph or within an existing body paragraph, depending on the flow of your argument.

What should be included in the conclusion of a synthesis essay, and when should you outline it?

The conclusion should restate the thesis in a new way and connect the argument to a broader context. If you have time for a full outline, include bullet points for the conclusion. However, if it's a timed exam, it's not necessary to outline the conclusion as time may be better spent elsewhere.