Synthesis Essay Instructions
The Assignment
Write a 800 – 1200 word (3-4 page) argumentative essay based on a minimum of 2 provided sources that introduces a problem, finds the common ground between multiple perspectives on that problem, and introduces a possible solution based on that common ground.
Purpose
It is easy to identify many different problems that illustrate inequity in our society today, such as poverty, discrimination, and homelessness. However, it is not easy to figure out the best ways to solve these problems – or sometimes, whether the problem is worth solving at all!
In this essay, you will read two different perspectives on a social problem of your choice. You may have a strong opinion on the topic based on your own experiences, passions, and perspectives. The challenge in this essay is to look beyond your own understanding of the topic to see the common ground among the various perspectives that can serve as a starting point towards generating a solution.
Audience
Imagine you are writing to an audience who is just as passionate and involved in this issue as you are, but who may not agree with your point of view. Use the common ground as a way of getting their support so they are more willing to consider the solution you propose.
Researching the Essay Topic
Choose a topic
Use the Points of View library database to select your topic. Each topic has an Overview, to get you familiar with the history of your social issue, and two articles: Point and Counterpoint. You will use the Point and Counterpoint articles to define the two perspectives on your issue by summarizing each of them in the first half of your essay; therefore, these are the two sources required to appear on your Works Cited page.
You may choose to reference the Overview as well; if so, you must also add it to your Works Cited page.
Brainstorm and Organize
After reading the Point and Counterpoint articles, consider the different perspectives on your topic using the following questions:
Why do they think this issue is important?
What do they have to gain or lose?
What are the main arguments of each perspective?
How are their positions similar and/or different from one another?
What are their goals or desired outcomes regarding the topic?
What common values or beliefs underlie all of these positions? How can you build a solution stemming from that common value?
Then create an outline or map for your essay using the following structure:
Introduction (1 paragraph)
Describe the issue or topic
Explain why the issue/topic is significant and why it warrants a solution
Thesis statement showing the solution you will present in the essay
Body Section 1: First Perspective (1 or more paragraphs)
Explain one side of the issue, fairly representing their arguments, concerns, and desired outcomes.
Use at least 1 research source to support your claims about this position. Be sure to use the MEAL Plan/Quote Sandwich to integrate your quotes and explain your sources.
Body Section 2: Second Perspective (1 or more paragraphs)
Explain an opposing side of the issue, fairly representing their arguments, concerns, and desired outcomes.
Use at least 1 research source to support your claims about this position. Be sure to use the MEAL Plan/Quote Sandwich to integrate your quotes and explain your sources.
Body Section 3: Common Ground (1 or more paragraphs)
Identify and explain the shared beliefs and goals of the multiple perspectives. Each belief/goal should have its own body paragraph.
Synthesize the multiple viewpoints to show how they will be able to build on their common goals.
Body Section 4: Solution (2 or more paragraphs)
Explain your proposed solution to the issue based on the common ground.
Show how to solve the problem in a way that benefits each position/perspective on the issue.
Show your readers how this solution is preferable to the intended outcomes of the individual perspectives on the issue.
Conclusion (1 paragraph)
Restate the thesis
Restate the significance of the issue
Restate the benefits of your proposed solution
End with a call to enact your solution or an explanation of the consequences if no common ground can be reached
Writing the essay
Rough Draft
Write a rough draft of the Introduction, Body Section 1, and Body Section 2. Your draft should be at least 2 pages and incorporate your 2 sources.
Be sure that your draft uses MLA formatting for the headings, in-text citations, and the Works Cited page.
As you write your draft based on the outline above, use the following tips for success:
Be fair and credible. Show your understanding of both sides of the issue by comparing and contrasting the ideas presented in your sources.
Use a neutral tone. Consider yourself the mediator between these multiple perspectives.
Consider your own rhetorical choices. Will you appeal to logos? Pathos? Ethos? How will you communicate your solution persuasively to your readers?
Support your ideas with quotations and paraphrases from the sources considered in your research. You should use 2-3 quotations and paraphrase other main ideas. Be sure to use quotation marks and in-text citations appropriately.
Final Draft
For your final draft, you will revise your essay for the argument, organization, supporting details, and transitions. Then edit for word choice, spelling, grammar, punctuation, and citations. Be sure to run spell- and grammar-check!
Save the final draft as a .doc, .docx, or .pdf file and submit it to the assignment dropbox.
