学术英语写作与研究方法（第二版）刘承宇-Chapter 03 Synthesizing the Literature Review.pptVIP

Chapter Three Synthesizing the Literature ReviewCONTENTS3.1 Synthesis: What is it?3.2 Synthesis points to a problem3.3 Chronological organizational patterns3.4 Comparison and contrast patterns3.5 Writing activities, prompts, and peer review3.6 Reference materials 3.1 Synthesis: What is it?Synthesis means combination. When we synthesize our background reading for literature review, we combine different bits of information from our readings into one coherent whole about what is already known about our research problem.Synthesis is both similar to and different form summary. Like summary, synthesis requires organizing ideas or information in one of several common organizational patterns. Unlike a summary, a synthesis is organized strategically to address the research problem. It is selective. 3.2 Synthesis points to a problemBefore synthesizing background reading into a written literature review, it is necessary to make sure what the research question is.All of your background reading has led you to the point where you have discovered a problem in the previous research, leading you to formulate your own question. This question will then guide you as you organize your literature review and the rest of your introduction.The synthesis of literature review will purposefully and methodically lead up to a research question. Tips: Be more selective when you write. Read enough to discover a problem. Formulate the question that would drive the rest of your research. The question is very important. It will help you decide which background information to include, which to exclude, which point to emphasize, which point to downplay, and so.Example 1 Karen Newman writes about the marriage plot in Jane Austin’s novels in her paper. (p.30) Example 2 Elisheva Gross’s study of teen Internet use. (p.30) 3.3 Chronological organizational patternsChronological or historical approach: the selected studies are discussed from old to new, building up to the problem or gap and the ne