How to Write a Synthesis Essay | AP Lang Q1 Tips | Coach Hall Writes

Summary

In this video, viewers are given practical tips for writing a successful synthesis essay for the AP Lang exam. The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the prompt, reading and analyzing sources, and creating a clear, defensible thesis. The guide stresses efficient time management, proper source citation, and strategic source selection. Students are encouraged to use strong commentary and avoid simple summarization. With a focus on preparation and clarity, the video equips students with the tools to craft a well-organized, argumentative essay that makes effective use of evidence from multiple sources.

Takeaways

• 😀 Start by reading the context paragraph and prompt thoroughly before diving into the sources for a better understanding of the issue at hand.
• 😀 It's helpful to ask yourself what the different perspectives are on the issue and why the College Board included this prompt in the exam.
• 😀 Brainstorming a tentative position before reading the sources isn't mandatory but can help clarify your approach to the essay.
• 😀 There will be 6-8 sources, including at least one visual text, such as a chart or graph. Don't hesitate to skip difficult sources and return to them later if necessary.
• 😀 Annotating sources is crucial. Take notes on the main idea, quotes, and use strong verbs (e.g., suggests, illustrates) to prepare your arguments.
• 😀 A quick outline before writing helps establish the direction of your essay and ensures your argument is logical and progresses smoothly.
• 😀 You must cite at least three sources in your synthesis essay. Be mindful of using a consistent citation method, either source letters (e.g., Source A) or author names.
• 😀 Select sources strategically: use at least two sources that support your argument and one for a counter-argument. Avoid summarizing sources; integrate them into your argument.
• 😀 Don't feel the need to use all the sources—using more than three does not necessarily improve your score. Quality over quantity matters.
• 😀 Commentary is crucial in your essay. Provide your own analysis and connect evidence to your thesis to make your argument stronger.
• 😀 Practice pacing for the exam, allowing about 15 minutes for reading and 40 minutes for writing, but start by giving yourself more time to build comfort before gradually reducing it.

Q & A

Why is it important to read the context paragraph in a synthesis essay?

Reading the context paragraph helps you understand the different perspectives on the issue at hand. It provides background and sets the stage for the argument you're about to make, which is critical for forming a well-rounded thesis.

What is a helpful tip for interpreting the visual sources provided in the AP English Language exam?

If you're unsure about a visual source (such as a chart or a picture), it's okay to skip it temporarily. Continue reading the other sources and come back to it later when you might have a clearer understanding.

How should you approach brainstorming before reading the sources?

While it’s not mandatory, brainstorming a tentative position before reading the sources can help. It allows you to begin thinking about the issue, but it’s important to stay flexible as you read the sources and adjust your position if needed.

What is the purpose of annotating the sources during the exam?

Annotating helps you identify key points, arguments, and quotes in each source. It’s essential for organizing your thoughts and ensuring that you can easily reference and incorporate relevant evidence into your essay.

How can strong verbs help in the synthesis essay?

Strong verbs, or power verbs, help you articulate the main ideas of a source more clearly and assertively. They enable you to frame your analysis in a way that shows how the source contributes to your argument, such as by 'illustrating' or 'demonstrating' a point.

Why is it important to create a quick outline before starting the essay?

A quick outline helps you organize your ideas logically and establish a clear line of reasoning for your essay. It ensures that your argument progresses smoothly, which is crucial for making a strong case in your body paragraphs.

What is the significance of citing at least three different sources in the essay?

Citing at least three different sources is a requirement to avoid scoring lower. Using multiple sources strengthens your argument and shows the breadth of research you've considered in developing your position.

Can you use the same source multiple times in your essay?

No, using the same source more than once doesn't count as multiple sources. To meet the requirement, you must cite three distinct sources. This ensures diversity in the evidence used to support your argument.

How do parenthetical citations work in an AP English Language synthesis essay?

Parenthetical citations are placed at the end of a sentence in parentheses, containing either the source letter (e.g., Source A) or the author's name. The citation should appear after the quote but before the period at the end of the sentence.

What should you focus on when writing your commentary in the essay?

Your commentary should focus on analyzing and explaining the significance of the evidence, connecting it back to your thesis. It's crucial to provide original thoughts and show how the evidence supports or challenges your position.