Common Mistakes on the AP Lang Synthesis Essay

Summary

In this video, the speaker highlights common mistakes students make in AP Lang synthesis essays and provides practical solutions to improve their writing. Key issues include failing to use three sources, providing insufficient commentary, improper citations, summarizing rather than analyzing, and lacking a broader context or conversation between sources. The speaker offers helpful strategies such as planning sources in advance, using linking language, and incorporating outside knowledge. Additionally, tips on citation styles and essay structure are shared to help students boost their scores on the AP Lang exam. The video emphasizes the importance of a clear, cohesive argument and thorough analysis.

Takeaways

• 😀 Always use three sources in your AP Lang synthesis essay to avoid scoring a 1 out of 4 in Row B.
• 😀 Plan your essay before writing by creating a simple outline with your thesis, main ideas, and the sources you intend to use.
• 😀 If you're running out of time, you can squeeze in a third source by adding it to the introduction or conclusion.
• 😀 Develop your commentary by asking 'why,' 'how,' or 'so what' to make your evidence more meaningful and connected to your thesis.
• 😀 Use linking language like 'therefore,' 'consequently,' or 'thus' to improve transitions and reinforce your line of reasoning.
• 😀 Be consistent in your citation method—whether it's the author's last name or the source letter—ensure clarity and proper attribution.
• 😀 Avoid summarizing sources. Instead, focus on analyzing how the evidence supports your argument and thesis.
• 😀 Broader context is important—incorporate personal experiences or historical knowledge to add depth to your argument.
• 😀 A synthesis essay should involve a 'conversation' between sources. Include at least two sources in each body paragraph to create a balanced argument.
• 😀 Double-check your citations to ensure each piece of evidence is properly attributed, preventing confusion during grading.

Q & A

What is the most severe mistake students make on the AP Lang synthesis essay?

The most severe mistake is not using three sources. If a student only uses two sources, they can only earn a score of 1 out of 4 in the evidence and commentary section of the rubric.

What is the first quick fix to avoid missing the third source in an AP Lang synthesis essay?

The first quick fix is to plan your main ideas and the sources you will use before you begin writing. Create an outline to ensure you include three sources and double-check this before moving on.

What should a student do if they realize they only have two sources but are running out of time?

If time is running out and you have only two sources, one solution is to squeeze in a third source, possibly in the introduction or conclusion, though this should be done carefully and naturally to maintain the essay's quality.

What is a common issue with commentary in AP Lang synthesis essays, and how can it be improved?

A common issue is limited commentary. To improve it, students should ask themselves 'why,' 'how,' or 'so what' to develop their commentary. Adding a 'because' clause can help, and students should avoid superficial explanations by being detailed and specific.

How should students handle citations in the AP Lang synthesis essay?

Students can cite sources either by using the author's last name or the source letter (e.g., 'source A'). The key is consistency. It's important to properly cite evidence to avoid confusion and ensure that three sources are clearly identified.

Why is it important not to use phrases like 'according to source A' in an AP Lang synthesis essay?

'According to source A' is acceptable but not ideal. It is better to incorporate the original source material directly, for example, by saying 'according to a 2017 Pew Research study,' which makes the citation feel more natural and adds credibility.

What is the difference between summarizing and analyzing in the context of an AP Lang synthesis essay?

Summarizing is merely restating what the source says, whereas analyzing involves explaining how the evidence supports the thesis and contributes to the argument. The essay should focus on analysis rather than simply summarizing the sources.

What constitutes 'broader context' in an AP Lang synthesis essay, and how can students effectively develop it?

Broader context includes outside knowledge, such as personal experience or historical knowledge, that goes beyond what is provided in the sources. Students can develop it by connecting the main idea to real-life examples or historical events, ensuring that the information is relevant and detailed.

Why is it important to include multiple sources in each body paragraph of an AP Lang synthesis essay?

Including multiple sources in each body paragraph creates a conversation between the sources, making the essay feel more dynamic and less like a series of summaries. This helps strengthen the argument and develop a more coherent line of reasoning.

What is the significance of using strong transitions in an AP Lang synthesis essay?

Strong transitions help create smooth connections between ideas and paragraphs, guiding the reader through the essay. Words like 'consequently,' 'therefore,' and 'thus' can enhance the commentary and ensure the essay flows logically.