March 2014

Outline of Paper No. 4 Synthesis 2 (Worth 200 points; due via email on April 14)

Introduction

1. Use a unique, not trite, quote or anecdote to catch the reader’s attention; cite your source. [1]
2. State briefly the similarity you see between the two articles, citing each by full author’s name and title (Since you will mention both the authors’ names and titles, use no citations here).
3. Give a road map of the paper, stating the different sections that are to come.
4. Use a transitional sentence to guide the reader into the next section (See Transitions.)

Background Information on the Authors

1. Write one paragraph on each author’s background and credentials, giving enough information to indicate why he or she is a reputable expert in the field. Use the introductory sections to the readings in our textbook as a guide to style and length. [2-4]
2. Use a transitional sentence to guide the reader into the next section (See Transitions.)

Overview of the Topic of the Synthesis

1. In a single paragraph, introduce your reader to the topic. For example, if you’re writing on the treatment for a melanoma, explain to the reader what is typically involved in treating this type of cancer. [1-2]
2. The new topics I have pre-approved are (a) the treatment of cancer (you can specify which type), (b) the treatment of diabetes, (c) abortion (what illnesses it is used to treat for), (d) the treatment for AIDS, and (stem cells (how they are used to treat an illness, and you can specify which illness).
3. Use a transitional sentence to guide the reader into the next section (See Transitions.)

Statement of the Comparisons You See in the Two Articles

1. Give a more detailed statement of the similarities you see in the two articles, based on the short version you gave in the Introduction.
2. Be sure to state at least three or more ways in which the articles are alike.
3. Point to and quote from the articles to show the reader which similarities you see.
4. Do not comment on or discuss the articles in this section; just highlight the similarities.
5. Use a transitional sentence to guide the reader into the next section (See Transitions.)

Discussion of the Two Articles using a They Say/I Say Format (See the handout on this.)

1. Pick a passage that you want to respond to in each article. Using the They Say/I Say format, directly question, challenge, or comment on what each author is saying. [2-4]
2. Use a transitional sentence to guide the reader into the next section (See Transitions.)

Conclusion

1. Use the handout on conclusions to write an interesting finish for the paper, one that goes beyond merely restating the synthesis. What would be a next step for this paper? What did you learn about writing a synthesis this third time? What did you learn about the topic?

Works Cited (Must be on a separate sheet and contain 6or more sources in the MLA format; ask for help

on this if you need it. You may consult with me or with tutors at the CLAS.)