Synthesis Writing — Practice · Grade 10 English

Chapter: Research & Source-Based Writing

What this practice covers

By the end of Synthesis Writing you should be able to:

11 questions, multiple choice and written answer, each with a worked explanation.

Vocabulary used: synthesis, synthesis matrix, source-by-source structure, concession.

Problem 1

Which of these is an example of TRUE synthesis, not just summary?
  1. Explaining that Source A and Source B reach opposite conclusions because they measure different outcomes, then drawing an original point about what that reveals.
  2. Three quotations copied in a row with no sentences of the writer's own.
  3. Source A says X. Source B says Y. Source C says Z.
  4. One paragraph explaining Source A, then a separate paragraph explaining Source B, with no link between them.
Answer and explanation

Explaining that Source A and Source B reach opposite conclusions because they measure different outcomes, then drawing an original point about what that reveals.

True synthesis names the relationship between sources and adds the writer's own analysis, rather than listing, isolating, or copying them separately.

Problem 2

Explain how two credible sources can seem to disagree when they actually don't. Give an example.
Answer and explanation

Two sources can appear to conflict when they are really answering different questions or measuring different outcomes. For example, one study finding that remote work boosts productivity and another finding that it increases loneliness are not in conflict — one is about output and the other about well-being. A strong synthesis names this distinction rather than forcing the sources into a false disagreement.

Problem 3

Which paragraph structure BEST reflects strong synthesis?
  1. Quotation, quotation, quotation, with no explanation.
  2. An original claim, then evidence braided from multiple sources with signal phrases and citations, then the writer's analysis connecting it back to the claim.
  3. A single source summarized at length, with no other sources mentioned.
  4. A list of citations with no sentences connecting them.
Answer and explanation

An original claim, then evidence braided from multiple sources with signal phrases and citations, then the writer's analysis connecting it back to the claim.

Strong synthesis leads with the writer's own claim, weaves in multiple properly introduced sources as support, and closes with original analysis — point, proof, meaning.

Problem 4

Two sources disagree: one argues that requiring community-service hours for graduation builds civic commitment, while another argues that mandatory service breeds resentment and 'hour-padding.' Write one or two sentences that synthesize both into an original insight, rather than just reporting each.
Answer and explanation

Answers vary; look for signal phrases introducing both viewpoints and an original concluding thought — for example, noting that whether a service requirement builds commitment or resentment may depend less on the mandate itself than on whether students get real choice in how they serve, a trade-off neither source fully resolves.

Problem 5

A student finds one strong, credible study that contradicts their thesis. They are tempted to leave it out to keep the essay simple. Why is this the wrong move?
  1. Contradicting sources can never be used in a research paper anyway.
  2. It isn't wrong; leaving out inconvenient evidence makes an argument cleaner.
  3. Ignoring credible contradicting evidence is dishonest and actually weakens the essay, since informed readers may know the evidence and a one-sided paper looks evasive.
  4. It is wrong only because the study would have added more citations to the Works Cited page.
Answer and explanation

Ignoring credible contradicting evidence is dishonest and actually weakens the essay, since informed readers may know the evidence and a one-sided paper looks evasive.

Honest synthesis concedes and engages its best opposition; hiding a credible contradicting source is dishonest and makes the argument look uninformed or evasive to a knowledgeable reader.

Problem 6

Synthesize without pretending all sources agree. Give a detail and explain its relevance.
Answer and explanation

A labeled evidence panel could add agency while preserving a welcoming mural and attributing historical claims. The sources still differ on priorities; the proposal answers overlapping concerns rather than eliminating disagreement.

Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.

Response criteria

  • Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
  • Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
  • Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.

Problem 7

A learner writes: “All three sources discuss the museum, so they prove the same thesis.” Explain the problem and produce a better response.
Answer and explanation

A shared topic is not shared reasoning. State each position and connect specific agreements, conflicts, and conditions.

Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.

Response criteria

  • Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
  • Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
  • Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.

Problem 8

Compare what you must inspect in these two cases. What can transfer, and what must be checked again?
Answer and explanation

Synthesis organizes several sources around your question or claim. It is more than a paragraph summarizing Source A followed by a paragraph summarizing Source B. The method transfers, but the particular detail, scope, and context must be read again. A labeled evidence panel could add agency while preserving a welcoming mural and attributing historical claims. The sources still differ on priorities; the proposal answers overlapping concerns rather than eliminating disagreement.

Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.

Response criteria

  • Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
  • Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
  • Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.

Problem 9

Using an assigned reading or one exercise source, write a developed response applying synthesis writing. Aim for 220–320 words; name the reading or reproduce the sentence you revise.
Answer and explanation

The sources agree on the value of access but reveal an unfunded staffing condition. A limited trial could test demand only after identifying wage funding; the materials grant cannot be treated as available staffing money. A complete response supplies context, a focused claim, a brief supporting detail, explanation, and a relevant qualification. Do not simply repeat this model.

Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.

Response criteria

  • Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
  • Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
  • Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.

Problem 10

Write two specific feedback comments on a response to this unit: one on accuracy or meaning and one on evidence or language. Then state a revision priority.
Answer and explanation

Check whether the response explains synthesis organizes several sources around your question or claim. it is more than a paragraph summarizing source a followed by a paragraph summarizing source b. Ask for a relevant detail and the reason it supports the conclusion. Prioritize the mistaken assumption shown here: “All three sources discuss the museum, so they prove the same thesis.”

Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.

Response criteria

  • Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
  • Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
  • Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.

Problem 11

Choose a fresh sentence or detail from the assigned selection. Explain how this unit’s method applies, and identify one uncertainty or limitation.
Answer and explanation

The report documents litter removal, the resident distinguishes water contamination, and the memo separates funding purposes. The event can be successful within its stated scope while water quality remains unresolved. The response must supply its own precise detail and explain it; copying the model without fresh evidence is insufficient.

Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.

Response criteria

  • Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
  • Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
  • Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.

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