Synthesis Writing
Master the art of combining multiple perspectives into cohesive, well-argued essays.
What You'll Learn
- Analyze and compare arguments from multiple sources on the same topic
- Identify relationships between sources: agreement, contrast, extension, and qualification
- Create thesis statements that synthesize diverse perspectives into a unified argument
- Structure and write complete synthesis essays with smooth source integration
- Maintain your own argumentative voice while drawing on multiple authorities
- Edit synthesis writing for clarity, coherence, and concision
Before You Start
This unit builds on foundational skills from earlier ELA units. You should be comfortable with:
- Argument analysis: Identifying claims, evidence, and reasoning in texts
- Paragraph writing: Constructing coherent paragraphs with topic sentences and support
- Source citation: Using signal phrases and integrating quotes or paraphrases
- Essay structure: Organizing multi-paragraph essays with introduction, body, and conclusion
If you need to review these skills, revisit the Argument Essays and Research Fundamentals units.
SAT/ACT Alignment
The skills in this unit directly support success on standardized tests:
- SAT Reading/Writing: Analyzing paired passages and synthesizing information (Information+Ideas domain)
- SAT Writing: Revising for expression of ideas, organization, and effective language use (ExpressionOfIdeas domain)
- ACT English: Evaluating rhetorical effectiveness, organization, and style
- ACT Reading: Comparing and synthesizing information across texts
Lessons
Working with Multiple Sources
Learn strategies for reading, annotating, and organizing information from multiple texts on the same topic.
Writing Synthesis Essays
Understand the structure and components of effective synthesis essays.
Text Practice: Synthesizing Arguments
Practice identifying connections, tensions, and patterns across texts to build unified arguments.
Writing Application: Full Synthesis Essays
Apply synthesis skills to write complete essays with smooth source integration and strong voice.
Editing Workshop: Refining Synthesis Essays
Learn the three-pass editing method to strengthen clarity, coherence, and argumentative power.
Unit Checkpoint: Synthesis Writing Assessment
Demonstrate mastery of synthesis skills through source analysis, writing tasks, and editing exercises.