Introduction to Synthesis with Locovore Movement

Question 1

synthesis essay - gathering information from sources

Answer 1

in a synthesis essay, you need to have clear position or focus. you will be using the sources and stretching them to fit your point. remember that your position should be the center of the argument, not the information provided in the sources

Question 2

before you view the sources

Answer 2

• in order for your argument to be “central” you need to have your own original idea. it’s a good idea to have some kind of position in mind before you start reading the sources
• always read the source information and the introduction for each source. you can learn more about the source, such as if it is written from a biased point of view or not

Question 3

as you view the sources

Answer 3

• take quick notes in the margins and extra space around the sources, such as summaries, pro/con the issue, use against source A, B, etc. Skim the articles for main ideas and useful pieces of information
• some of the sources will be images. make sure you really understand what is being presented graphically. read the sources, title, legend, and notice the scale and things mentioned on a graph. in a comic, identify the point or message that is shown

Question 4

when you use sources in your essay

Answer 4

you must cite the source either before or after you use information from it. if you are paraphrasing, quoting, etc., you must tell which source you’re using. pay attention to the way the prompt tells you to cite the sources

Question 5

what would be the best way to summarize the information from this source to write a synthesis essay?

Answer 5

• a nutrition expert buys local food for taste, not nutrition; i can use to argue against local foods
• this source can be used in support of locally grown food saying a variety of crops can be grown
• we’re seeing “a revival of small farms” due to the “local food movement” claims this source
• this source gives a reason to buy local stating: “buying local food supports an area’s farmers”
• this source affirms benefits of growing food locally arguing there are a variety of available foods
• this source is against the regulation of guns and can be used to argue against gun regulation
• this source could be used to argue that it’s not feasible or cost effective to eat just local foods
• this source is in negation of locally grown foods and could be used to refute supposed benefits
• this source is in support of growing food locally and could be used in an affirmative argument
• this source is in favor of growing good locally and shows the benefits of such a lifestyle