Copy_of_synthesizing_information.pdf

PATTERN OF IDEA DEVELOPMENT

Overview of Patterns

• Module introduction for pattern of idea development.

Types of Patterns

• General to Particular: Starts with a broad idea and then illustrates with specific examples.

• Cause and Effect: Explains why something happens (the cause) and the result of that action (the effect).

• Claim and Counterclaim: Presents an argument along with opposing viewpoints.

• Problem-Solution: Identifies a problem and suggests solutions.

• Persuasion: Aims to convince the audience of a particular viewpoint.

GENERAL TO PARTICULAR

Definition

• Begins with a general idea and narrows down to specific details.

Example

• "Fruits are healthy. Apples and bananas are examples of fruits that provide us with vitamins."

CAUSE AND EFFECT

Definition

• Describes relationships, detailing why something occurs and what the consequences are.

Example

• "I studied hard, so I got a high grade."

CLAIM AND COUNTERCLAIM

Definition

• Used to introduce an argument and also consider the opposing point of view.

Example

• "I believe online learning is helpful, but some people say it can be distracting."

OUTLINING WITH PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SOURCES

Types of Outlines

1. Sentence Outline: Contains thesis statements, major topics, subtopics, supporting details in complete sentences.

2. Topic Outline: Presents major topics, subtopics, supporting details in words or phrases.

CONTENT OF AN OUTLINE

• Thesis Statement: Central idea.

• Major Topics: Formed from the thesis statement.

• Subtopics: Derived from major topics.

• Supporting Details: Expand upon the major topics and subtopics, providing clarifying information.

TYPES OF SOURCES

Primary Sources

• Original documents, artifacts, or direct evidence.

Secondary Sources

• Analyses or interpretations of primary sources.

SYNTHESIZING INFORMATION

Goals

1. Understand synthesis and idea connections.

2. Reflect on synthesizing power.

3. Create a comprehensive paragraph integrating gathered ideas.

Definition of Synthesizing

• Combining diverse ideas into a new, comprehensive understanding.

Synthesis Example

• Topic: Effects of Sleep on Academic Performance

  • Source 1: Adequate sleep enhances memory retention.

  • Source 2: Lack of sleep affects focus and information processing.

  • Own Idea: Teenagers' sleep deprivation due to social media impacts academic performance.

  • Synthesis: Sufficient sleep is crucial for academic success; however, teenagers often compromise sleep for social activities, which can hinder academic performance.

R.E.S METHOD FOR SYNTHESIS

1. Read and jot down notes from different sources.

2. Edit and group similar ideas together.

3. Synthesize by combining notes with existing knowledge.

STEPS TO SYNTHESIZE

1. Organize Sources: Group relevant literature for clarity on relationships.

2. Outline Structure: Decide on the grouping and discussion order of sources.

3. Write Paragraphs: Each paragraph should cover multiple sources, condensed into a topic sentence.

4. Revise, Edit, and Proofread: Ensure clarity and coherence in the synthesis.

QUOTING SOURCES

• Use terms like "asserts," "argues," "illustrates" for quoting.

• Show agreement with terms like "similarly," "likewise" and disagreement with "on the contrary," "however."

EXAMPLES OF UNSYNTHESIZED VS SYNTHESIZED

• Unsynthesized: Discussion on online learning benefits and challenges with isolated statements.

• Synthesized: A balanced view combining benefits and challenges of online learning to encourage engagement and effectiveness.