Paper 4

For this paper, you are to synthesize and compare two essays you have read.
When you synthesize sources, you need to determine how they relate to each other. You also need to explain how the authors view their topics (and/or subtopics), and how they try to support their points of view with evidence and reasoning. In comparing sources, you want to focus on the reasoning and evidence the authors use to support their views,
judging their positions and justifying your own. To write a synthesis and comparison of the essays, you might first paraphrase and annotate the essays. You might also summarize and critique the essays.

Identify each author's main topic. You may identify any subtopics as well. Paraphrase the authors'viewpoints toward their topics. First, one author's view, then the other's ....
When you are ready, write an introduction that indicates the controversy over your topic and sets up the rest of the paper. One way to indicate the controversy is to identify
your topic or problem and paraphrase the different approaches to it (those the authors take--their thesis statements). State your own perspective on the topic or problem (indicate whether you agree or disagree with an author, and what you think about the
topic or problem--your thesis statement), and include an essay map (tell the reader what to expect in your paper, and in what order to expect it).

After the introduction, you may want to include a brief summary of each authors' work. If you have not already identified the authors, and introduced their work(s), then you will need to do so here. In the body of your paper include a description of the evidence and reasoning the authors use in supporting their viewpoints. Compare the authors' reasoning and evidence to reflectively reach and persuasively justify your own point of view on what the authors say. In other words, after you think about how they support their points of view, tell me yours, and persuade me that yours is valid. Support your opinion.

In your conclusion you need to explain what you think the significance of the topic is--from the writers'points of view, and from yours. You might want to include an interesting quotation or question, but do not introduce a new topic in your conclusion. Remember, your main conclusion should restate your thesis, sum up the main points of your paper, and include a statement of significance.

Remember to include parenthetical citations (used in a correct manner) and a Works Cited page. Refer to your Handbook, or see me with any questions. I will be glad to assist you.

The suggested length for this paper is four to five pages--depending upon your topic and your selection of sources.

Remember to include a copy of each source you use.

GOOD LUCK!