Synoptic Connections Study Guide

Writing Your Synoptic Investigation

To craft a compelling synoptic investigation, follow these structured steps:

1. Define Your Theme

• Choose a central theme that interests you and can be explored through various texts. This will guide your investigation.

2. Select Your Texts

• Pick a range of literary and non-literary texts that relate to your theme. Ensure they are not part of your examined units.

3. Establish Clear Aims

• Clearly outline what you intend to investigate. Your aims should guide your analysis and help maintain focus throughout your work.

4. Justify Your Choices

• Explain why you selected each text. Discuss how they contribute to your understanding of the theme and the connections you aim to explore.

5. Make Active Connections

• As you write, actively draw connections between your chosen texts. Highlight similarities and differences in themes, language, and context.

6. Use Secondary Sources

• Incorporate secondary reading to support your arguments. This can provide context and depth to your analysis.

7. Structure Your Investigation

• Organize your work logically. Each section should build on the previous one, leading to a cohesive conclusion that reflects your findings.