Tropic of Chaos writing assignment -01
Read this : Parenti, Tropic of Chaos: Chapters 4-5; 16 (pp. 39-65; 225-242)
Reading link: https://books.google.com.hk/books?id=YA85DgAAQBAJ&pg=PT80&hl=zh-CN&source=gbs_toc_r&cad=3#v=onepage&q&f=false
Read only chapter 4 and 5 would be fine.
Here is the writing instruction:
Assignment 7 Instructions:
Word length 400 words.
Do not use quotations
For this writing assignment you are to synthesize the week’s readings: two of your choice. Recall that at the beginning of the term we had a synthesis assignment as well. The overall objective of this synthesis piece is to distill the main arguments of various pieces into a coherent, short few paragraphs. Keep in mind, THIS IS NOT A REVIEW piece, therefore, do not give a description of each chapter. Rather, to synthesize, you ought to capture the essence of author’s augments or themes that transcend the chapters, while in addition, bring up interesting points the author makes, highlight conflicting or seemingly inconsistent arguments, or raise paradoxes in thinking.
Remember:
A review paper gives a description of who said what.
A synthesis paper provides the broader significance of what was said.
Refresher from week 1:
To synthesize means to assemble parts into a new whole. The parts are the different readings, each representing a distinct view or understanding on a range of topics. The “whole” is your new writing piece that considers the various arguments and viewpoints. The “whole” ought to also include your thoughts and reflections. You may agree, disagree with the readings. But a good synthesis often brings into focus paradoxes, contradictions, or other seeming inconsistencies in the readings and course materials. Regardless of what is your position regarding the readings, make sure to back up your arguments with evidence and citation.
A synthesis is NOT a review of she said, he said, and this person said, and I agree with this person. A synthesis captures the essence of the arguments (sometimes from several different sources) and grapples with the ways in which the arguments align and diverge. And presents an interesting take or oversight that hasn’t been discussed thus far.
You are required to synthesize information from the sources into your argument. Remember that the sources won’t make your point. They provide supporting information, perspectives, viewpoints.