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C1 · Unit 5
Critical synthesis · multi-source mapping
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Critical Synthesis I

Advanced readers don’t “summarize source by source”—they build a map. In this unit, students learn to track claims → evidence → implications across multiple texts, then use structured note-taking to prepare for synthesis writing in the next unit.

Objectives Core Concept Mapping Tools Synthesis Language Practice Final Task Materials

SWBAT (Objectives)

  • Identify each source’s main claim and supporting sub-claims.
  • Extract and label evidence types (data, example, expert opinion, case study, logic).
  • Note limitations, assumptions, and counterpoints inside a source.
  • Compare sources: agreement, tension, and “missing links.”
  • Create a multi-source map that connects claims → evidence → implications.

Core Concept: Claims → Evidence → Implications

Claim

What the author wants you to believe (main point). Often appears in the intro, thesis, or conclusion.

Evidence

What supports the claim: data, examples, reasoning, expert authority, comparisons, case studies.

Implications

What follows if the claim is true: consequences, recommendations, risks, “so what?” outcomes.

Key C1 upgrade: Don’t copy notes. Transform them into a structure that you can reuse: compare claims, rank evidence strength, and track implications across sources.
Claims→Evidence→Implications Guide (PDF) Synthesis Map Example (PDF)

Multi-Source Mapping Tools

Tool 1: Source Grid

Columns = sources. Rows = claim, evidence, limitations, implications. Fast comparison.

Tool 2: Claim Tracker

List 6–10 key claims, then mark which sources support, weaken, or complicate each claim.

Tool 3: Evidence Strength Rating

Rate evidence (A–D) for credibility, relevance, representativeness, and transparency.

Tool 4: Implication Chain

If claim is true → then X changes → which impacts Y → leading to Z recommendation.

Source Grid Template (PDF) Claim Tracker (PDF) Evidence Rating Sheet (PDF)

Synthesis Language (C1 Connectors)

Linking sources

“Both A and B suggest…” · “A aligns with B in that…” · “C complicates this by arguing…”

Evidence language

“A bases this claim on…” · “B provides data indicating…” · “However, the sample may be limited…”

Implications

“Taken together, these sources imply…” · “A likely consequence is…” · “This suggests a need to…”

Synthesis Phrase Bank (PDF)

Practice (Note-Taking + Synthesis)

Practice 1: 3-source grid

Complete a source grid for three short texts. Add one limitation per source.

Practice 2: Claim tracker

Choose 6 key claims. Mark support/contrast and note the evidence type beside each.

Practice 3: Implication chain

Write 3 implication chains that connect claims to consequences and recommendations.

Practice Worksheet (PDF) Answer Key (PDF)

Final Task: Multi-Source Synthesis Map

Deliverable
  • Read 3–4 short sources on one topic.
  • Create a one-page map: claims → evidence → implications.
  • Include at least 2 points of agreement + 2 tensions.
  • Add 3 evidence ratings (A–D) with brief justification.
Reflection (short)
  • Which source was most convincing—and why?
  • What claim would change if one key piece of evidence was removed?
  • What is still unknown / missing?
Success criteria
  • Notes are organized by idea (not by source order)
  • Evidence types are correctly labeled
  • Implications are specific and logically connected
  • Comparisons are explicit (align / contrast / complicate)
Task Sheet (PDF) Rubric (PDF)

Materials & Downloads

  • Unit 5 Slides — PPTX
  • Claims→Evidence→Implications Guide — PDF
  • Synthesis Map Example — PDF
  • Source Grid Template — PDF
  • Claim Tracker — PDF · Evidence Rating Sheet — PDF
  • Synthesis Phrase Bank — PDF
  • Practice Worksheet — PDF · Answer Key — PDF
  • Task Sheet — PDF · Rubric — PDF

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