Transcript AP Language SYNTHESIS Test Strategy

AP Language SYNTHESIS
Test Strategy
Olson and Bailey
Reading Time
• You will be given 15 minutes to read all
three essay prompts and corresponding
passages.
– Plan synthesis question first
– Rhetorical Analysis second
– Argument third
• After the 15 minutes you will be given 2
hours to write three essays
How your essays are scored 1
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1 reader will score your essay
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The reader reads your essay, gets an impression
then scores it not often double checked
Three Basic Elements
1. Did the essay answer the question?
2. Did the writer’s point remain clear?
3. Did the writer use examples?
1. Synthesis requires three quotes
2. Analysis requires quotes from text
3. Argument requires anecdotal evidence
How your essays are scored 2
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Two extra elements
– Grammar
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Should be fluent and controlled
Doesn’t have to be perfect but cannot
compromise meaning
– Voice
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Be natural, write like yourself
Keep the prompt and audience in mind
Use examples
Synthesis Understanding
• The goal is to
– ensure that you are able to present and
support your argument.
– Evaluate your ability to absorb, understand,
and employ several sources on the same
topic
– Test your ability to correctly cite and integrate
the sources into your argument
Question Page
• Three sections on the question page
– Directions
• “Your argument should be central; the sources
should support this argument. Avoid merely
summarizing sources”
– Which means bring in your own thoughts and examples
– Introduction
• Makes general statements/Provides larger context
• May ask questions but it is not the prompt
Question Page 2
• Assignment
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This is the section that includes the prompt
Topic is usually in bold type
Do what the prompt asks
WRITE DOWN YOUR OPINION THAT ANSWERS
THE PROMPT BEFORE YOU READ THE
SOURCES!
– Note examples that come to mind before reading
• Sources
– Cite by last name or “Source A”
Passages and Visuals
•
Passage Process
1. Is the source biased? (Look at source)
2. Date of Publication? Is it relevant
3. What is the position of the author in relation to the
prompt’s task?
4. Who is the original intended audience?
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Annotate Passage
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Thesis, Point of View
“Quotables” – A good turn of phrase
Are you going to summarize or DQ?
FAQ
• Do I have to read all the passages?
– No, not really but you must cite 3 passages and
remember you are being evaluated on your judgment
of supporting sources
• Should I use oppositional passages?
– Sure thing – Remember the models of argument
(Rogerian, Toulmin, Classical)
• Do I have to use three different passages?
– Yes
– You can use more than one quote from a passage
and more than three in general