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
A CAEL extended response prompt asks you to 'discuss the implications' of information in two passages. What kind of response does this require?
Answer: An analytical response that explores consequences, significance, or applications of the information
'Discuss implications' requires higher-order analysis — examining what the information means beyond its surface content.
What is the function of a body paragraph's topic sentence in a synthesized extended response?
Answer: To state the main point of that paragraph and connect it to the thesis
A topic sentence anchors the paragraph to a controlling idea and signals how that paragraph contributes to the overall argument.
In CAEL Writing assessment, what does 'task fulfillment' mean?
Answer: Addressing all parts of the prompt appropriately, including using both source passages
Task fulfillment measures how completely and accurately the writer responds to what the prompt actually asks, including required use of source material.
Which error MOST severely undermines the credibility of a CAEL extended response?
Answer: Misrepresenting or distorting the meaning of a source passage
Misrepresenting source material suggests poor reading comprehension and undermines the entire argument built on that evidence.
A student is asked to synthesize two passages about urban planning. One focuses on economic benefits; the other, on social equity. What is the BEST thesis?
Answer: Effective urban planning must balance economic growth with social equity to create sustainable communities.
This thesis integrates both passages' themes into a unified argument rather than merely naming them or expressing personal preference.
What is the purpose of a concluding sentence at the end of a body paragraph in a CAEL extended response?
Answer: To restate or reinforce how the evidence supports the paragraph's main point
A concluding sentence wraps up the paragraph's argument and connects evidence back to the controlling idea, strengthening coherence.
Which of the following is an example of weak synthesis between two sources?
Answer: Source A states that education is important. Source B also talks about education.
Simply noting that both sources 'talk about' the same topic without connecting them analytically is reporting, not synthesis.