❮ 107
CHAPTER
7 Introduction to the Synthesis Essay
IN THIS CHAPTER
Summary: An introduction to the synthesis essay and its purpose as it is pre-
sented on the AP English Language exam.
Key Ideas
✪ Learn how the synthesis essay differs from the argumentative and analysis
essays.
✪ Learn the process of dealing with many texts.
✪ Learn the strategies that can be used to incorporate specific texts into
your essay.
✪ Learn the basics for constructing your response to the synthesis prompt.
Some Basics
What Is the Synthesis Essay on the Exam Like?
Basically, the student is presented with an introduction to and a description of an issue that
has varying viewpoints associated with it. Accompanying this is a selection of sources that
address the topic. These sources can be written texts that could include nonfiction, fiction,
poetry, or even drama, as well as visual texts, such as photos, charts, artwork, cartoons,
and so forth.
After carefully reading and annotating the sources, the student is required to respond
to the given prompt with an essay that incorporates and synthesizes at least THREE of the
sources in support of his position on the subject.
KEY IDEA
