Pre-AP English 10 Forgiveness Synthesis Essay
Prompt:
Having read Wiesenthal's account and related texts, write an argument of at least 2 pages in length that
takes a position on whether the Nazi soldier deserves forgiveness and that synthesizes information from
at least three different sources.
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Formulate a clear central claim (position).
Support claims with logical reasons.
Use evidence from multiple sources to support reasons.
Use evidence from 3 different texts read within unit (The Sunflower, Marcuse's essay, Langer's
essay, Bacon's essay titled "On Revenge," Alkalaj's essay (101), Telushkin (262), Worse than War
documentary).
Make sure to cite each source with a parenthetical citation using either "Source A," "Source B,"
etc. or the author's last name.
Develop argument into at least a full two-page piece.
Source A - (Wiesenthal) - Wiesenthal's narrative account
Source B - (Marcuse) - pages 207-208
Source C - (Langer) - pages 186-190
Source D - (Bacon) - "On Revenge"
Source E - (Alkalaj) - pages 101-105
Source F - (Telushkin) - pages 262-264
Source G - (Goldhagen) - Genocide: Worse than War video documentary
Note: Yes, you can absolutely bring in additional sources from your own reading! These sources do not
count towards the 3 that are required, however. You must use at least 3 of the ones provided. Also, it's a
great thing to bring in other examples to prove you point. Historical examples, personal experience,
hypothetical situations, current events- these are all examples of evidence that can help you to craft an
effective argument!
Elizabeth Harmon
Batesville High School
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