SAT Reading and Writing: Strategies for Expression of Ideas

Rhetorical Synthesis

A question type unique to the digital SAT that assesses the ability to utilize specific information to achieve a defined rhetorical goal.

The Structure of the Question

Consists of three parts: context, notes, and prompt.

The Golden Rule of Rhetorical Synthesis

Ignore information that does not serve the specific goal stated in the prompt.

Generalization

A rhetorical goal asking for a broad claim about a subject.

Introduction

A rhetorical goal that involves introducing a person, work, or concept to an unfamiliar audience.

Comparison/Contrast

A rhetorical goal emphasizing similarities or differences between two things.

Specific Example

A rhetorical goal seeking a specific example of a broader phenomenon.

Context in Rhetorical Synthesis

A short introduction stating that a student has taken certain notes while researching a topic.

Notes in Rhetorical Synthesis

A list of 4-5 bullet points containing facts, dates, names, or comparisons.

Prompt in Rhetorical Synthesis

The instruction telling what the student wants to emphasize or present in the final sentence.

Continous / Addition Transition

Indicates that Sentence 2 continues or adds to Sentence 1.

Contrast / Reversal Transition

Indicates that Sentence 2 disagrees with or provides an alternative to Sentence 1.

Causation / Sequence Transition

Indicates that Sentence 2 is a result of or follows Sentence 1 in time.

In fact / Indeed

Emphatic transitions used to validate the previous claim.

Alternatively vs. Instead

'Alternatively' offers another option, while 'instead' replaces the previous idea entirely.

The True but Wrong Trap

In Synthesis questions, avoid choosing true facts that do not meet the prompt's goal.

Ignoring Blank Placement in Transitions

Always connect the idea relevant to the blank to the previous idea despite sentence structure.

Redundancy in Transitions

Avoid using transition words that create a redundant grammatical structure.

Taking Time for Rhetorical Synthesis

Prioritize understanding the goal over specific details.

Summarizing in Generalization

Look for summary words or combining multiple details into a unified theme.

Identifying Definitions in Introduction

Focus on definitions, titles, or basic identifying details.

Transition Words for Continuous

Examples include furthermore, moreover, and additionally.

Transition Words for Contrast

Examples include however, nevertheless, and on the other hand.

Transition Words for Causation

Examples include therefore, consequently, and as a result.

Logic Test for Transitions

Identify the relationship between two sentences to predict the transition.

Common Pitfalls in Transition Questions

Recognize common mistakes to enhance accuracy in response.

Simple vs. Complex Words in Transitions

Focus on function rather than the complexity of vocabulary.