Vocabulary Four - Synthesis Terms - AP Lang

synthesis/synthesize

This involves the process of combining information and ideas from multiple sources to create a cohesive and original argument. It requires the writer to critically evaluate and integrate various perspectives, drawing connections between sources to form a new and insightful viewpoint. Doing this entails more than just summarizing; it necessitates the organization and interpretation of information to support the writer's overarching thesis.

source

This provides information for an argument, and some are more reliable or credible than others. In the context of a synthesis essay, this refers to any resource that provides information used to support the writer's argument. These are essential components of the synthesis process, and writers must strategically select and integrate information from credible and relevant ones to build a strong and convincing synthesis essay.

visual source

This encompasses photographs, paintings, maps, political cartoons, or any non-textual elements that convey information. These are considered alongside traditional written sources, and writers must analyze and synthesize visual information to enhance the depth and breadth of their argument.

evaluation/evaluate

This process of a text or piece of writing is an assessment of its effectiveness or merit. In the context of the synthesis essay, writers must scrutinize the source's purpose, the sufficiency and accuracy of information, and overall strengths and weaknesses. Doing this to the sources for a synthesis essay contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the quality and persuasiveness of the argument.

cite/citation

To do this means to quote, or to refer to a passage, book, or author as evidence for or justification of an argument or statement. Writers relate source material to their own argument by syntactically embedding particular quoted, paraphrased, or summarized information from one or more sources into their own ideas. Writers must acknowledge words, ideas, images, texts, and other intellectual property of others.

direct quotation

This is when another person's words are used by a different person/writer and placed into their own document. They must always be placed inside quotation marks and given appropriate attribution (MLA, APA, Chicago, etc).

embed

This refers to the process of seamlessly incorporating quoted, paraphrased, or summarized information from one or more sources into the writer's own ideas. Doing this effectively ensures that the borrowed material is syntactically integrated, contributing to the writer's argument while maintaining flow and coherence.

plagiarism

This is the act of using the words or ideas of others without proper acknowledgment or permission. In a synthesis essay, writers must adhere to ethical writing practices by giving due credit to the original sources through proper citation, avoiding this and maintaining academic integrity.

relevance/relevancy

This refers to the significance and applicability of a text or source in the context of the writer's argument. This is determined by a source's ability to contribute valuable information or support to the writer's thesis, ensuring that it aligns with the specific focus and goals of the synthesis essay.

assumption

This refers to a belief or principle, either stated or implied, that is taken for granted. In the context of a synthesis essay, writers must be aware of these within source material and critically evaluate their validity. Identifying and addressing these is crucial for constructing a well-founded and persuasive synthesis argument.

bias

This is prejudice in favor of or against one thing, person, group, or idea. When incorporating evidence or sources into an argument, the strongest arguments recognize and acknowledge these and the limitations of the material and account for those limitations in their reasoning.

summary

This is a concise representation of a text or source's main ideas and key points. These condense the original content into a more manageable form, offering a clear overview while maintaining the essence of the text or source material. Effective ones capture the essential elements without introducing personal interpretation.

paraphrase

This involves translating information from a source into the writer's own words while retaining the original meaning and includes a proper citation of the original material. It is a way to restate a phrase or passage using different language, either to shorten the passage or enhance comprehension. Proper use is essential for avoiding plagiarism and ensuring clarity in the writing.

concede/concession

To do this is to acknowledge the opposing viewpoints or certain aspects of an argument in order to strengthen one's overall position. This demonstrates intellectual honesty and a nuanced understanding of the complexity of the topic, contributing to a more well-rounded and persuasive synthesis essay.

empirical

This is evidence related to information derived from observation, experimentation, or factual evidence. In the context of a synthesis essay, these kinds of sources are characterized by their reliance on real-world data and verifiable information, adding a layer of credibility and reliability to the writer's argument.

coherence

This is a quality of good writing that results when all sentences, paragraphs, and longer divisions of an essay are naturally connected. This quality of writing is achieved through a logical sequence of ideas, thoughtful repetition of keywords, appropriate pacing, and the use of transitional words. It ensures that the writing is clear, intelligible, and presents a unified and logically structured argument.

articulate

This means to express ideas clearly and effectively, both in terms of written and verbal communication. A synthesis essay that is this reflects the writer's ability to convey complex concepts with precision, ensuring that the reader can grasp the intended meaning without confusion.

clarity

This is the extent to which a reader can easily understand the ideas expressed by the writer in accordance with the writer's purpose. This quality in writing involves presenting information logically and transparently, minimizing confusion and promoting a clear understanding of the argument or position.

corroborate

This means to confirm or support a statement, idea, or claim by providing additional evidence or sources. In a synthesis essay, effective writers strive to do this to their arguments by integrating multiple sources that independently validate and reinforce their key points.

delineate

This means to outline or describe in detail. Writers in a synthesis essay should do this with the key concepts, arguments, and relationships between sources to enhance clarity and facilitate a deeper understanding of the synthesis process.