GCSE Secondary English Age 13-17 - Reading: Responding to Synthesis Questions Part 1 - Explained

The video tutorial introduces the concept of synthesis as a reading skill, focusing on how to identify and link ideas across texts. It explains synthesis questions, emphasizing the importance of selecting, summarizing, and synthesizing information. A GCSE example is provided, demonstrating how to analyze texts for similarities and differences. The tutorial aims to build confidence in handling synthesis questions by offering tips and strategies.

What does the term 'synthesis' primarily mean in the context of reading skills?

• Breaking down complex texts

• Bringing together ideas from different texts

• Summarizing a single text

• Identifying the main idea of a text

Which of the following is NOT a key skill required for answering synthesis questions?

• Selecting relevant information

• Combining information across texts

• Memorizing the entire text

• Summarizing information in your own words

In synthesis questions, what are you often asked to compare?

• The publication dates of the texts

• The writing style of the authors

• The length of the texts

• The attitudes of the writers towards a specific topic

What is the main focus of the example synthesis question provided in the video?

• Similarities in the experiences of change

• Differences in writing styles

• Contrasting historical events

• Analyzing the use of metaphors

In the example question, what is one similarity between the two texts?

• Both characters are trying to hide possessions

• Both texts are set in a prison

• Both involve a discussion about food

• Both involve characters moving to a new city

What word is used in both texts to indicate the act of hiding possessions?

• Concealing

• Secreting

• Hoarding

• Stashing

Why is it important to use connecting words like 'similarly' in synthesis answers?

• To avoid using the same words as the text

• To confuse the reader

• To show the examiner that you understand the connection between texts

• To make the answer longer