Synthesis Essay Instructions And Rubric

Synthesis Essay The hardest part of being a writer—for many—is discovering what to say. Sometimes we must go through an extended process of drafting and revising before we find something we think is worth writing. As E. L. Doctorow says, “writing […] is like driving a car at night. You can see only as far as the headlights, but you can make the whole trip that way.” For this assignment, I want you to synthesize three texts that deal with a common issue, perhaps something we have discussed in class. At least two of the essays, or chapters, should be texts already assigned for Unit II. You may look through The Blair Reader and the online list of texts related to Deep Economy for your third text. In the synthesis essay, you should briefly summarize the argument of the texts you have chosen, explain their implications, and show how the three texts “speak to each other.” I do not want you to express your own opinion in this paper because trying to be objective will (1) allow you to understand the arguments of others better and (2) help you practice synthesis before moving on to evaluation and creation (of your own argument). Read Bloom’s Taxonomy of Learning below:

Bloom’s Taxonomy of Learning: knowledge, or being able to recall information; comprehension, or understanding the significance of that information; application, or being able to apply that information in different situations; analysis, or examining the parts and how they’re related to the whole body of information; synthesis, or combining different bodies of information; and evaluation, or deciding the strengths and weaknesses of the information provided. Because synthesis means combining information, I expect you to use transitions that show how each text’s ideas relate to the others’ ideas. You might try arranging paragraphs topically instead of by author to help, but transitions within the paragraph will still be necessary to show how the three texts speak to each other.

Synthesis Essay Rubric Ideas Title is specific, allowing the reader to know what texts are considered in the essay. Thesis is arguable and specific enough to be addressed in 4–6 pages. The essay aims to synthesize the texts as they relate to a common issue/theme/subject. Writer responds to ideas presented by the texts, using them as a starting point for further thought and questioning. Writer supports thesis by “staying true” to three texts (i.e., three essays and a visual), using them as evidence. This does not mean that the writer must agree with the texts but that he or she must acknowledge—within reason—what they “say.” Essay integrates quotations properly and explains their significance, developing the ideas presented. Paraphrases should be paraphrases and not retain texts’ vocabulary or syntax. Organization Essay is well organized with choice material and connections across paragraphs that guide the reader to understand the work as a whole. Sentences transition well from one to another and add meaning, not unnecessarily repeating ideas already presented. Voice Writer considers audience’s prior knowledge and feelings. Writer maintains a consistent, academic tone. Conventions Essay matches MLA format: pagination, header, heading, title, works cited, one-inch margins, Times New Roman, 12-point font. Grammatical and spelling choices indicate the writer set aside time to edit and present his or her work professionally. “Errors” do not hinder the reader’s understanding of the work. Assignment Requirements Essay is 4–6 pages. Folder includes process materials: prewriting/brainstorming, drafts with peers’ feedback, process memo, reflection memo. Ten points will be deducted if any process materials are missing. Process materials show substantial improvement between first and second drafts. – √– √ +

Below expectations Almost meets expectations Meets expectations Exceeds expectations

50 points

30 points

10 points

10 points

Deductable

Total: _________/100