Synthesis writing is a written discussion that draws on one or more sources. In an academic synthesis, you make explicit the relationships that you have inferred among separate sources. Go beyond summary to make judgments – judgments based, of course, on critical reading of the sources. Go beyond the critique of individual sources to determine the relationship among them.

Recommended length: 4-5 pages, double-spaced in 12pt font. APA Format.

Synthesis Essay: 15% (SLOs Chapter 1 a)

Serving primarily as a foundation for the research essay, the synthesis essay requires students to explore their topic of interest through reading several selections in their Dialogue reader. After summarizing specific arguments on their topic, and analyzing the claims of these authors, students are asked to reflect on key ideas and demonstrate their critical thinking skills through the formulation of a working thesis related to their topic. Recommended length: 4-5 pages. APA Format.

Purpose: To summarize the claims of various authors on a specific topic and develop a clear thesis in relation to your topic.

Audience: An academic audience that includes the authors of the readings and other interested in the issue upon which you are focusing.

Questions for Consideration and Topic Exploration: After reviewing chapter 1 on critical and conflict theories, utilize these theoretical ideas to explain a current global issue related to the food, fuel, or water crisis. How does the theory help explain the situation? What would Marx and Engels, Ehrenreich, or Weber (choose at least one of the theorists) say about this current situation?

Reading Dialogues are

Lynn Dialogues of learning: self and society 200 level iBook