SYN: Lesson - The AP English Language and Composition Synthesis Essay

The AP English Language and Composition Synthesis Essay

As you learned earlier in the course, the AP English Language and Composition Exam consists of two components: the multiple choice section and the essay/free response section. After the multiple choice, you will compose three essays: the synthesis essay, the rhetorical analysis essay, and the argumentative essay. The synthesis essay is a type of argument where you use a series of provided sources (at least three) to support an argument of your own. The suggested time for this essay is 55 minutes: 15 minutes to read the source material, and 40 minutes to compose the essay itself.

Sample Synthesis Essay

• Please read through the Collegeboard 2021 Free Response Question and Sources Links to an external site..
  • Note that the synthesis essay is the first essay of the three essays.
• Now read through the Collegeboard 2021 Synthesis Essay student samples and score results Links to an external site..
  • Note that the first sample (A) is the high score.

Helpful Tips for Completing the Synthesis Essay

This essay can be challenging when it comes to timing, so here are some tips to keep in mind when approaching it:

1. Be sure to view the prompt first. The prompt will state the topic and task for your essay. Make sure you understand what it is asking of you.
2. Read through (quickly) the sources. While you are only required to use 3, you should read all of them; it will be helpful in assisting in the planning for your response.
3. Once you’ve read through the sources, decide whether you will challenge, defend, or qualify the statement in the prompt.
4. Compose a rough outline for your essay.
5. Compose the essay.
6. Save 2-3 minutes for proofreading.

Guidelines

The rubric focuses on three categories: the thesis, the evidence and commentary, and the sophistication of the writing. Select each category to read additional information.

Thesis

Earns either a 0 or 1.
Responds to the prompt with a defensible thesis that may establish a line of reasoning; the writer clearly takes a position.

Evidence and Commentary

Earns a 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4.
Provides specific evidence from at least three of the provided sources to support all claims in a line of reasoning
AND
Consistently explains how the evidence supports a line of reasoning.

Sophistication

Earns either a 0 or 1.
Demonstrates sophistication of thought and/or a complex understanding of the rhetorical situation. Essays can earn a score of 1 in this row by doing any of the following:

1. Crafting a nuanced argument by consistently identifying and exploring complexities or tensions across the sources.
2. Articulating the implications or limitations of an argument (either the student’s argument or arguments conveyed in the sources) by situating it within a broader context.
3. Making effective rhetorical choices that consistently strengthen the force and impact of the student’s argument.
4. Employing a style that is consistently vivid and persuasive.

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