Integrating Sources
Quote, paraphrase, cite, and explain sources efficiently while keeping the writer argument in control.
A lesson of AP English Language and Composition, in Synthesis Essay, about 10 minutes.
Integrating Sources in the Synthesis Essay
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to integrate source evidence smoothly, avoid source-dump, and achieve the "sophistication" standard for AP synthesis essays.
The Synthesis Problem: Source-Dumping
Source-dump: a synthesis essay that reports what each source says without developing a central argument.
Bad example: "Source A says technology is good. Source B says technology is bad. Source C gives some statistics about technology."
This is not synthesis — it's a summary.
Real synthesis: using sources as evidence for YOUR argument, drawing connections between sources, and showing how they support, complicate, or qualify your claim.
How to Integrate Sources
Three levels of integration:
Level 1 — Quote: use the source's exact words.
"According to Source A, 'digital platforms create an illusion of connection while eroding genuine community.'"
Level 2 — Paraphrase: restate the source's idea in your own words.
"Source B's research suggests that social media users often feel more isolated than non-users despite spending more time in online 'communities.'"
Level 3 — Summarize: capture the source's overall argument briefly.
"Source C provides historical evidence that communication technology has always prompted fears of social disconnection, from the telegraph to the telephone to the internet."
Mix all three levels. Quote for the most striking language; paraphrase for complex ideas; summarize for background.
Attributing Sources
On the AP exam, cite sources as "Source A," "Source B," etc. (they are labeled in the packet).
Attribution verbs (more specific than "says"):
- argues, contends, asserts (for positions)
- demonstrates, shows, reveals (for evidence/data)
- suggests, implies, indicates (for inferences)
- acknowledges, concedes (for counterarguments)
- challenges, questions, disputes (for opposition)
Making Connections Between Sources
The highest-level synthesis draws connections between sources — showing how they support each other, contradict each other, or speak to different aspects of the same issue.
Connecting language:
- "Sources A and C both demonstrate that..."
- "While Source B argues X, Source D complicates this by showing Y..."