EAP Synthesizing Multiple Sources 2

Question 1

When two sources present conflicting data on the same topic, the best approach in academic writing is to:

Accepted Answer

Present both findings and discuss possible reasons for the discrepancy

Answer

Acknowledging conflicting evidence and analyzing the discrepancy demonstrates critical thinking and scholarly rigor.

Question 2

Which signal phrase best introduces a synthesized point that multiple sources agree on?

Accepted Answer

Several researchers concur that ...

Answer

'Several researchers concur that' explicitly signals agreement across multiple sources, which is the hallmark of synthesis.

Question 3

A student writes: 'Jones (2020) found X. Lee (2021) found Y. Brown (2022) found Z.' This passage is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Patchwork summary

Answer

Listing findings sequentially without connecting them is patchwork summary, not synthesis.

Question 4

In a synthesis matrix, columns typically represent:

Accepted Answer

Key themes or concepts

Answer

A synthesis matrix organizes sources by thematic columns so patterns across sources become visible.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes 'thematic synthesis'?

Accepted Answer

Grouping information from multiple sources under shared conceptual categories

Answer

Thematic synthesis organizes content around ideas or themes rather than source by source.

EAP - English For Academic Purposes Practice Test