Synthesis

In the final phase you will use your now detailed understanding of the text to produce a narrative exposition and interpretation. The purpose of this synthesis is to contextualize the ideas and claims of the text through the lens of equity, equality, and diversity. The synthesis should take the form of a short essay framed by a “framing question” about the text, complete with argumentation and citation of evidence to support your interpretation. Below are four example of framing questions you may consider using:

• Have the ideas or claims of the text been conclusively confirmed or refuted by other sources? If yes, how and by whom? If not, what uncertainty remains?
• Have or could any specific groups of people benefit or be harmed by the ideas or claims in the text? If yes, who and how?
• Does the text invoke or reinforce existing power structures (e.g. political, economic, etc) or hierarchies?
• Does the combination of the identity of the author, the intended audience, or the target subject groups of the text raise any concerns about conflicts of interest? If yes, what might be the consequences of those conflicts of interest, and for whom?

You may modify these questions as you see fit, or pose your own framing question as you see fit.

Your synthesis should begin by stating the question you will address, followed by a well structured essay describing any needed background information, a description of your position, and references to other sources that support that position. You may find the following guidelines for how to structure your essay helpful.