Synthesis Response

1. Synthesis Response E.Wilson LMAC 2011-2012

2. What is a Synthesis Response? • Synthesis: (n) from two or more entities to make something new. • In other words – we are going to take a look at two different pieces (short story, poem, movie, graphic novel, photo essay, etc.) and look at them through a specific lens. E.G.: Very Special Shoes by M. Callaghan & Do Not go Gentle into that Good Night by D. Thomas

3. Synthesis Response? • “Response” - as in to respond to something, in this case, a guiding question. • What is a “Guiding Question?” – Think of it like a lens or a direction for your argument, it will help you focus on specific elements or techniques within the pieces. E.G.: Both Very Special Shoes and Do Not go Gentle deal with the issue of loss – which author is more effective?

4. Competency 2 - Reading • Interprets the relationship(s) between reader, text and context in light of own response(s) • Explains the impact of a text on self as reader by returning to its social functions, as well as the way meanings and messages are constructed. • • Draws on own reading profile, including knowledge of textual structures and features, to locate textual details that support own interpretations . • • Constructs interpretations that embody both own world and the world of the text. • Key Features of Competency 2 • – Adjusts reading strategies and stance to build and sustain meaning • – Draws on discussions with peers to extend, reshape and clarify own responses • – Makes connections between reader, text and context to justify own interpretations • – Applies research and organizational strategies appropriate to context • – Evaluates own growth as a reader of spoken, written and media texts Government Crap

5. Evaluation What am I being evaluated on? • Your ability to see how the text(s) is constructed (i.e. Codes & Conventions = Lit Elements & Author’s Techniques). • Then, your ability to support your findings with evidence from the text(s). • And finally, your ability to answer the guiding question in relation to what you found.

6. Rubric – Synthesis Response C-2: Reads and listens to written, spoken and media texts. K.F.: Interprets the relationship between reader, text and context.

7. Ouch – My Brain Hurts. Let’s break it down even further: • Meaning – Did you understand the text? • C & C – Can you identify the codes and conventions within the text? • Connections – Can you compare the two texts? • Judgement – which author does a better job and why?

8. Let’s Talk Strategy How are you going to tackle a Synthesis Response?

9. Guiding Question: Both Very Special Shoes and Do Not go Gentle deal with the issue of loss – which author is more effective? Text #1 – Very Special Shoes by M. Callaghan Text #2 – Do Not Go Gentle by D. Thomas • Deconstruct & Analyze: • Codes & Conventions • Lit Elements • Author’s Techniques • Deconstruct & Analyze: • Codes & Conventions • Lit Elements • Author’s Techniques Connect & Compare what you found. Judgement: Which one did a better job and WHY.

10. How it Works • Read BOTH Texts – take notes/fill in worksheets. • Discussion – No notes, proper protocol. • No Rough Draft – but outlines are ok. • Time – 3 hours (or about 3 classes)

11. Ready?