Write POWERFUL Synthesis Conclusions With Logic and Emotion

Summary

In this video, Tim Freitas from Garden of English shares valuable insights on how to write sophisticated conclusions for synthesis and research papers. He emphasizes avoiding simple summaries and instead encourages crafting conclusions that engage readers emotionally and logically. Tim explains the importance of giving an argument a 'face,' using personal experiences and universal truths to make the conclusion compelling. Through an example based on horror-based entertainment, he demonstrates how to write impactful conclusions that inspire action and leave a lasting impression on readers.

Takeaways

• 😀 Avoid writing conclusions that merely summarize the paper. They add no value and are not seen in professional writing.
• 😀 Conclusions should not just be recaps; they should provide a new insight or wrap up the argument in a meaningful way.
• 😀 In AP English, conclusions are covered in units 4 and 7 of the CED, which offers more examples and practice on how to write them effectively.
• 😀 A synthesis conclusion should be personal, making the argument more emotional and relatable to the reader.
• 😀 The concept of 'giving your argument a face' refers to adding a personal story or experience to make the conclusion more human and impactful.
• 😀 For synthesis conclusions, start by listing abstract ideas related to your paper, such as fear, suspense, or entertainment.
• 😀 Think about personal experiences that relate to these abstract ideas, or consider the experiences of others you know.
• 😀 Your conclusion should shift from personal anecdotes to a universal call to action, applying the message to a broader audience.
• 😀 Finish your conclusion with a universal statement, such as 'In a world where...', to leave the reader with something to reflect on.
• 😀 A well-crafted conclusion should be between three and seven sentences long, ensuring it is concise yet impactful.
• 😀 Tim Freitas encourages students to practice writing conclusions and offers additional resources, like a comprehensive guide, to help improve their writing skills for AP exams.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video?

The video focuses on teaching how to write effective conclusions for synthesis essays, specifically avoiding simple summaries and instead creating conclusions that are emotionally and logically engaging.

Why should conclusions not simply summarize the paper?

Conclusions that summarize the paper are ineffective because they don't add anything new to the argument and don't move the reader to action or reflection.

What does the speaker mean by 'giving your argument a face'?

By 'giving your argument a face,' the speaker means making the conclusion more personal and emotionally engaging, similar to how charity commercials show real faces to evoke an emotional response from the audience.

How does the speaker suggest making an argument more emotional in a conclusion?

The speaker suggests incorporating personal experiences or stories that emotionally relate to the topic, which helps create a deeper connection with the reader.

What is the role of personal stories in writing conclusions?

Personal stories help humanize the argument, making it relatable and engaging, which in turn makes the reader more likely to connect with and respond to the conclusion.

What are the first steps in writing a conclusion according to the speaker?

The first steps involve identifying four to seven abstract ideas that are central to the paper's argument and then finding a personal or relatable experience to connect with those ideas.

How should you transition from personal stories to universal action in a conclusion?

The transition should be made by shifting from talking about personal experiences to discussing broader actions or experiences that involve other individuals, thus making the conclusion more universally relevant.

What is the significance of including a quote in the conclusion?

Including a brief quote (no more than six words) from a source in the conclusion adds credibility and helps tie the argument to outside evidence, reinforcing the conclusion's message.

What does the speaker mean by 'leaving a glass slipper' in a conclusion?

Leaving a 'glass slipper' refers to making a final, impactful statement that leaves the reader wanting more, prompting them to engage with the topic further.

What is the recommended length for a conclusion?

The recommended length for a conclusion is no more than seven sentences, with three to four sentences being ideal for a clear and concise wrap-up of the argument.