Sample AP Lang Synthesis Essay: Cursive Handwriting Instruction

Sources for this Synthesis Essay:

1. Gillis, Carly. “Schools Debate Cursive Handwriting Instruction Nationwide.” HuffPost, 30 Mar. 2011, www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/03/30/cursive-handwriting-instr_n_842069.html
2. Trubek, Anne. “Handwriting Just Doesn’t Matter.” The New York Times, 20 Aug. 2016, www.nytimes.com/2016/08/21/opinion/handwriting-just-doesnt-matter.html?mcubz0&_r0
3. Kysilko, David. “The Handwriting Debate.” National Association of State Boards of Education, 20 Sept. 2012, www.nasbe.org/latest-news/handwriting-debate/

AP Lang Synthesis Essay on Cursive Handwriting

Sample AP Lang Synthesis Essay Outline: Evaluating the Debate on Cursive Handwriting Instruction

1. Introduction:
   •  Start with an engaging hook or attention-grabbing statement about the debate surrounding cursive handwriting instruction.
   • Next, provide background information on the controversy and the significance of the topic.
   • Finally, add a clear and defensible thesis statement expressing the need to evaluate the relevance and value of cursive handwriting instruction in modern education.
2. Body Paragraph 1: The Relevance of Cursive Handwriting Instruction
   1. Topic Sentence: Cursive handwriting instruction remains relevant in modern education due to its cognitive benefits and historical significance.
   2. Evidence from Sources:
      • Gillis: Highlights the argument that cursive handwriting enhances fine motor skills and cognitive development.
      • Trubek: Challenges the relevance of cursive handwriting in the digital age, suggesting that other skills take precedence.
      • Kysilko: Discusses the cultural and historical importance of cursive handwriting as a form of communication and art.
   3. Rhetorical Strategies: Gillis employs appeals to logos through evidence-based reasoning, Trubek uses appeals to logos and ethos through logical reasoning and expert opinions, and Kysilko utilizes appeals to ethos by referencing cultural and historical contexts.
   4. Counterargument: Some may argue that cursive handwriting is outdated and unnecessary in today’s technological society.
   5. Rebuttal: Emphasize the cognitive benefits, cultural significance, and the ability of cursive handwriting to complement digital skills, fostering well-rounded individuals.
3. Body Paragraph 2: Digital Literacy and Changing Educational Needs
   1. Topic Sentence: The shift towards digital literacy and evolving educational needs calls into question the priority of cursive handwriting instruction.
   2. Evidence from Sources:
      • Gillis: Explores the argument that time spent on cursive handwriting could be better utilized for other essential digital skills.
      • Trubek: Argues that the emphasis on cursive handwriting detracts from the focus on more critical digital literacy skills.
      • Kysilko: Presents a balanced perspective, acknowledging the importance of digital literacy while also recognizing the potential benefits of cursive handwriting.
   3. Rhetorical Strategies: Gillis uses appeals to logos through logical reasoning and appeals to pathos by highlighting the limited instructional time available, Trubek employs appeals to logos by emphasizing the importance of digital literacy, and Kysilko employs appeals to logos through balanced analysis.
   4. Counterargument: Some may argue that cursive handwriting develops fine motor skills that are applicable beyond digital contexts.
   5. Rebuttal: Acknowledge the value of fine motor skills but emphasize that other activities and digital tools can also develop these skills, making them adaptable to various contexts.
4. Body Paragraph 3: Emphasizing a Balanced Approach
   1. Topic Sentence: The debate over cursive handwriting instruction involves balancing the preservation of tradition and the practicality of modern educational needs.
   2. Evidence from Sources:
      •  Gillis: Highlights the argument that cursive handwriting connects students to their cultural heritage and historical documents.
      • Trubek: Questions the necessity of cursive handwriting instruction when communication is predominantly digital.
      • Kysilko: Discusses the need to find a balance between preserving cultural heritage and adapting to changing educational demands.
   3. Rhetorical Strategies: Gillis uses appeals to ethos by emphasizing the cultural and historical significance of cursive handwriting, Trubek employs appeals to logos through logical reasoning, and Kysilko uses appeals to logos and ethos through balanced analysis.
   4. Counterargument: Some may argue that time spent on cursive handwriting could be better allocated to other subjects with more direct relevance to modern life.
   5. Rebuttal: Emphasize the importance of cultural preservation, the potential benefits of cursive handwriting on cognitive development, and the need for a balanced curriculum that incorporates practical and traditional aspects.
5. Conclusion:
   • Summarize the main points discussed in the body paragraphs.
   • Restatement of the thesis, emphasizing the need for a critical evaluation of cursive handwriting instruction
   • Closing statement that encourages further reflection on the topic and the implications for education in the digital age