Synthesis Essay Unit – Should We Ban Single-Use Plastic Straws?

Synthesis Writing: In this argument essay synthesis writing mini-unit, students will closely and critically read multiple sources on a single topic and then formulate an argument based on the readings.

This is an engaging argument essay that your students will want to write! Includes: writing prompt, prewriting, graphic organizers, outline, peer edit, rubric, and sources!

Should We Ban Single-Use Plastic Straws?

This synthesis writing activity is common core-aligned. The argument essay includes everything you need from initial research on the topic to the grading rubric. This assignment is ideal for students in grades 9-12.

This file contains:

• table of contents with a link to a Google Doc file containing links to articles and an editable assignment page
• unit outline and suggestion page
• synthesis writing student infographic
• argument essay
• prewriting organizer
• reading and research notes organizer
• evidence organizer
• visual, essay-blocking organizer
• thesis statement organizer
• counter argument graphic organizer
• two different essay outlines
• peer editing form
• 100 point argument essay rubric
• fill-in-the-blank essay rubric

Looking for more instruction and guidance for your students?

• Essay Writing Unit: Teach Your Students to Master the Essay
• Introduction to Argumentative Writing: a CCSS aligned mini-unit
• Argumentative and Persuasive Writing Strategies: Ethos, Pathos, Logos
• Understanding Logical Fallacies – CCSS aligned