MUST USE LESIE JAMISON’S EMPATHY EXAMS. THIS IS AN AP ENGLISH LANGUGAE AND COMPOSITION CLASS.
Empathy Exams Synthesis Essay
Consider the topics, ideas and discussions from class last week on Leslie Jamison’s The Empathy Exams then select 3-4 Essays that deal with a particular definition of Empathy or subject you would like to explore. You will synthesize these 3-4 essays into a coherent, clear written assignment of 4-5 pages. Synthesize is a verb that means create by combining. DO NOT INDIVIDUALLY WRITE ABOUT YOUR SELECTED CHAPTERS IN SEPARATE BODY PARAGRAPHS–EACH BODY PARAGRAPH MUST BE SYNTHESIZE YOUR SELECTED CHAPTERS
Suggested ideas:
Titles are often considered a hint to the theme. Examine some of the titles. How are they revealed in the essays and what purpose do they serve for the particular essay and the collection.
The book is a collection of essays on the subject of empathy. What type of empathy does she examine? Are they similar definitions or ideas?
How does Jamison reveal her ideas on empathy? Does her tone change depending on the subject? Why? What is unique or similar about these subjects?
What type of connection does Jamison have with her subject? Where in the essays does she reveal her credibility?
Writers often use the pen to both entertain and educate. Why do you think Jamison selected these particular subjects? Why might she be fascinated with Empathy? Where does she reveal that intrigue in her works?
Suggested guide for Essay:
Introduction should include your definition of the topic. Focus should be on Empathy Exams by Leslie Jamison. Clearly and coherently state a thesis of appropriate depth. Your essay may be thesis seeking or thesis driven. Body paragraphs should begin with topic sentences, followed with evidence from text, commentary and synthesis of the topic. Your argument is the theme.
Do not write a plot driven essay. This is analysis and your evidence should be examined for Jamison’s use of Rhetorical Devices:
Diction – any interesting or unusual words or words used in an unusual context
Tone – can you label one?
Figurative language – Metaphors/Simile – any comparisons or exaggerations
Imagery – do you see, feel, taste, touch, smell anything?
Repetition – same word or sentence structure or same idea – how many times displayed?
Syntax – long/short sentences, font, punctuation, sentence variety patterns, repetition in phrases/clauses?
Explore different ways to organize the information depending on what you discover or want to address and/or argue.
In your conclusion – make one. What did you discover from this compilation of essays? Read over your essay twice before you write your conclusion. If the essay is thesis seeking, then your conclusion will lead to your definitive statement.
Make sure you include a works cited that is properly done.
