In a synthesis task, which action best demonstrates the ability to combine sources?

In a synthesis task, which action best demonstrates the ability to combine sources?

• A. Quoting a single source extensively.
• B. Paraphrasing one source with no integration.
• C. Weighing evidence from multiple sources to support a new claim.
• D. Summarizing several sources without explicit synthesis.

Answer: (C)

Synthesis involves combining ideas from different sources to support a new, evidence-based claim. The best action demonstrates that you’re not just repeating one author, but actively evaluating and integrating multiple perspectives to build an argument that goes beyond any single source. Weighing evidence from multiple sources means selecting relevant points from each, assessing their credibility and relevance, noting where sources agree or conflict, and weaving these elements together to support a claim of your own. This shows you can harmonize diverse viewpoints, resolve tensions, and create a coherent argument. Quoting extensively from a single source relies on one voice and doesn’t show integration with other perspectives. Paraphrasing one source without bringing in additional sources misses the opportunity to compare or contrast ideas. Summarizing several sources without synthesis captures information from many places but stops short of forming a new, combined argument.

Synthesis involves combining ideas from different sources to support a new, evidence-based claim. The best action demonstrates that you’re not just repeating one author, but actively evaluating and integrating multiple perspectives to build an argument that goes beyond any single source. Weighing evidence from multiple sources means selecting relevant points from each, assessing their credibility and relevance, noting where sources agree or conflict, and weaving these elements together to support a claim of your own. This shows you can harmonize diverse viewpoints, resolve tensions, and create a coherent argument.

Quoting extensively from a single source relies on one voice and doesn’t show integration with other perspectives. Paraphrasing one source without bringing in additional sources misses the opportunity to compare or contrast ideas. Summarizing several sources without synthesis captures information from many places but stops short of forming a new, combined argument.