Writing: Extended Response Synthesis Flashcards
7 cards from real CAEL practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Writing: Extended Response Synthesis flashcards as text
What does it mean to paraphrase a source rather than quote it directly in a CAEL extended response?
Answer: Restate the source's idea entirely in your own words and sentence structure
A true paraphrase fully restates the idea in the writer's own language and structure, demonstrating comprehension.
In a CAEL extended response, how much of the response should consist of direct quotes from the source passages?
Answer: Minimal — quotes should be short and used selectively, with most ideas paraphrased
CAEL rewards demonstrating comprehension through paraphrase and analysis; over-quoting suggests the student is not processing the material.
A student writes a paragraph that only restates information from the sources with no original analysis. What is the main weakness?
Answer: It lacks the writer's own critical engagement with the material
Extended responses require the writer to analyze and evaluate source information, not merely report it.
Which transition phrase is MOST appropriate for introducing a synthesis that shows one source extending the argument of another?
Answer: Building on this point, Source B further argues that...
'Building on this point' signals that the second source adds depth to, rather than simply repeating or contradicting, the first.
What is the recommended minimum word count for a strong CAEL extended response?
Answer: 250 words or more
CAEL guidelines suggest responses of at least 250 words to adequately develop arguments and integrate source material.
Which of the following BEST describes 'coherence' in the context of a CAEL extended response?
Answer: Ideas flow logically and are connected with clear transitions
Coherence refers to logical flow and clear connections between ideas, achieved through transitions, topic sentences, and consistent focus.
When a student introduces source material with 'According to the passage...' repeatedly, what problem does this create?
Answer: It becomes repetitive and suggests the student lacks varied integration strategies
Relying on a single attribution phrase repeatedly makes writing monotonous; strong writers vary how they introduce and integrate sources.