Grade 7 Fall — Research Process, MLA Citation, Source Evaluation, and Multi-Source Synthesis
English · RES G7 eng.g7.f.res.synthesis_across_sources

Synthesize ideas from multiple sources into original analysis (CCSS W.7.7; W.7.8; RI.7.9)

Combine ideas from 2-3+ sources into one body paragraph using connecting moves (building-on, qualifying, contrasting). Distinguish synthesis (sources weave into your analytical claim) from list-style ('Smith says X. Jones says Y.'). Apply RI.7.9 — analyze how authors writing about the same topic emphasize different evidence or advance different interpretations.

Mastery threshold
85%
Min instances
10
Typical minutes
55
Spaced intervals (days)
1, 3, 7, 14, 30, 60
Prereqs
Successors
Common misconceptions
  • Lists sources sequentially without connection — 'Smith says X. Jones says Y. Wong says Z.' is not synthesis.
  • Treats all sources as agreeing without acknowledging where they diverge or qualify.

Exercise pool (3)

Diff Stem Type
3 For each paragraph, label SYNTHESIS or LIST-STYLE + justify with 1 sentence. (1) 'Nakate says Africa contributes 4% of emissions but... identify synthesis vs list
4 Write a 4-6 sentence synthesis paragraph combining these 2 sources around your own claim: (Source A) Aveni argues the Maya calendar... synthesize two sources
5 Write a 6-8 sentence synthesis combining 3 sources where one QUALIFIES the others. Topic: climate justice. Source A: Nakate argues... synthesize three sources with qualification