synthesis essay

Excellent—Good—Average—Fair—Poor

Comments

Engaging and informative introduction that establishes topic and summarizes texts.

X

Original, arguable thesis serves as a response to the connection established between two or more texts

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Textual examples are clearly and cohesively summarized and analyzed. Relationship between the texts is clear.

X

Each paragraph presents a new idea and analysis that explains what ideas and insights are presented in the texts. Analysis answers the “why?” and “so what?” and supports the topic sentences and examples.

X

Topic sentences are clear, specific, and arguable.

X

Conclusion presents a new idea and ends the paper. Conclusion presents the author’s “final thought” on the subject.

X

Strong organization and flow throughout paper.

X

Proper use of grammar, punctuation, and MLA formatting.

X

All sources correctly cited throughout paper; all citations included in a Works Cited page.

X

Missing Works Cited page.