Research & Source-Based Writing — Chapter review · English 12: Complex Texts, Independent Inquiry & Public Voice, Grade 12
Develop a focused research question about the assigned book or the source packet’s issue. Collect and evaluate additional verifiable sources, build an evidence matrix, and write a source-based explanation or argument.
Review the key ideas
Independent Research
Turn a broad topic into a question with a manageable place, time, population, and purpose. A question should require inquiry rather than assume its answer.
Synthesizing Complex Sources
Synthesis organizes several sources around your question or claim. It is more than a paragraph summarizing Source A followed by a paragraph summarizing Source B.
The Extended Argument
An argumentative thesis answers a debatable question with a reasoned position. Qualify its scope so the evidence can support it.
Documentation & Academic Integrity
A citation allows readers to trace borrowed words and ideas. MLA in-text references direct readers to a Works Cited entry, adding an available locator such as a page number when appropriate.
Problem 1
Answer and explanation
Ask whether a twice-weekly later opening at this school attracted enough use to justify its staffing cost during the trial. Compare the attendance log and budget, then interview staff about supervision limits.
Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.
Response criteria
- Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
- Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
- Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.
Problem 2
Answer and explanation
The sources agree on the value of access but reveal an unfunded staffing condition. A limited trial could test demand only after identifying wage funding; the materials grant cannot be treated as available staffing money.
Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.
Response criteria
- Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
- Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
- Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.
Problem 3
Answer and explanation
A six-week, twice-weekly trial is worth testing if staffing is funded and attendance is recorded. The survey suggests interest but does not establish schoolwide demand; a trial can answer that limited question.
Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.
Response criteria
- Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
- Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
- Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.
Problem 4
Answer and explanation
If Lee is not named in the sentence, use (Lee); if the prose already names Lee, do not repeat it without a locator. The entry uses Lee, the article title, the site title, date, and URL. Do not add a made-up page.
Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.
Response criteria
- Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
- Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
- Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.