Synthesizing

Synthesizing takes the process of summarizing one step further.  Synthesizing involves combining ideas and allowing an evolving understanding of text.  This strategy is linked to determining importance.  As with other reading comprehension strategies, it requires explicit instruction and modeling.  As the reader reflects on what is important, new information is combined with prior knowledge and connections are made.  Synthesizing reminds me of putting pieces of a puzzle together so that the whole picture becomes clear.

Synthesizing requires the reader to draw conclusions as well as identify or summarize important points.   Many strategies are employed in this strategy.  Bits of information are pulled together to form a new idea or understanding.  New insights are gained. 


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Prezi on synthesis