CAEL Writing: Extended Response Synthesis 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When synthesizing two reading passages in a CAEL extended response, what is the PRIMARY purpose of synthesis?
- To summarize each passage separately in two paragraphs
- To integrate information from both sources to support a unified argument (Correct answer)
- To compare only the differences between the two passages
- To quote extensively from each source to show comprehension
Correct answer: To integrate information from both sources to support a unified argument
Synthesis means weaving information from both sources together to build a cohesive argument, not treating them as separate summaries.
Question 2: A student writes: 'Source A says X. Source B also says X.' What is missing from this synthesis?
- A transition word between the two sentences
- Analysis explaining how both sources together support a point (Correct answer)
- A direct quote from each source
- A counter-argument from a third source
Correct answer: Analysis explaining how both sources together support a point
Effective synthesis requires analytical commentary that connects sources to an argument, not just sequential reporting of what each says.
Question 3: Which organizational strategy is MOST effective for a CAEL extended response that synthesizes two passages?
- Dedicate paragraph one to Source A and paragraph two to Source B
- Organize by theme or argument, integrating both sources within each paragraph (Correct answer)
- Write only about the passage you found more convincing
- Use a chronological structure based on when each source was written
Correct answer: Organize by theme or argument, integrating both sources within each paragraph
Thematic organization with integrated sources demonstrates higher-order synthesis than a source-by-source structure.
Question 4: In the CAEL Writing task, the extended response is primarily assessed on which combination of skills?
- Vocabulary range and sentence length
- Use of evidence, development of ideas, and language accuracy (Correct answer)
- Number of paragraphs and total word count
- Handwriting clarity and paragraph indentation
Correct answer: Use of evidence, development of ideas, and language accuracy
CAEL extended responses are evaluated on task fulfillment, coherence, use of source material, and linguistic accuracy.
Question 5: A student wants to show that two sources AGREE on a point. Which sentence frame best demonstrates synthesis?
- Source A talks about X, and Source B is about X too.
- Both Source A and Source B suggest that X, reinforcing the idea that... (Correct answer)
- Source A mentions X. However, Source B also discusses X.
- According to Source A, X. Source B has similar information.
Correct answer: Both Source A and Source B suggest that X, reinforcing the idea that...
The phrase 'reinforcing the idea that' explicitly connects the agreement to a larger claim, which is the hallmark of synthesis.
Question 6: How should a writer handle it when the two CAEL source passages present conflicting information?
- Ignore the conflicting source and only cite the one that supports your thesis
- Acknowledge the conflict and use it to nuance or complicate your argument (Correct answer)
- Write two separate paragraphs, one for each viewpoint, with no conclusion
- Ask which source is more recent and automatically prefer it
Correct answer: Acknowledge the conflict and use it to nuance or complicate your argument
Acknowledging contradictions and using them to add nuance demonstrates critical thinking, which CAEL rewards.
Question 7: Which of the following is the best example of a synthesis thesis statement for a CAEL extended response?
- This essay will summarize Source A and Source B.
- Source A is about climate change and Source B is about energy policy.
- Both sources illustrate that government regulation is essential to addressing environmental degradation. (Correct answer)
- I agree with Source A more than Source B because it is more detailed.
Correct answer: Both sources illustrate that government regulation is essential to addressing environmental degradation.
A strong thesis makes a unified claim that both sources will be used to support, not merely announcing what the essay will do or expressing personal preference.
CAEL Writing: Extended Response Synthesis 2
When synthesizing two reading passages in a CAEL extended response, what is the PRIMARY purpose of synthesis?