Synthesizing
As stated earlier, synthesis is the combining of new information with existing information to create something new. Arthur Hyde explains that when new information is encountered, we try to relate that new information to our existing schemata. Sometimes that new information identifies with current thoughts and beliefs. Other times, when that new information does not fit into a student's current schemata of how information is stored and classified, it will form its own new schemata.
Once the KWC is completed, the act of synthesizing all of the information to solve the problem begins. It is believed that synthesis is the most challenging of the comprehension strategies. Synthesis can be seen on a linear scale. At the beginning of the scale is the taking stock of what you reading. Stopping every so often to digest what has been read to make sure you understand what is happening. In the middle of the scale is where you have a better understanding of how to summarize, retell, and even recreate what has been read. At the end of the scale is where authentic synthesis takes place. It is where new thoughts and perspectives are created from the reading. It is through synthesis that students are able to selectively receive a plethora of pieces of information, sensory stimuli, and impressions bombarding them and extract only those to be connected to an idea that they deem important. It is thought that it may even be done only at the subconscious level.(13) Students organize the various pieces to create a tapestry, a portrayal of their new schemata.
The KWC has the ability to incorporate all of the various reading strategies to allow synthesis to take place. The KWC is not the sole method of helping kids solve word problems. Students should be exposed to various different methodologies and strategies. The ultimate goal for this entire process is to help students synthesize the data to achieve a desired result. The KWC is one tool that can provide a good foundation for achieving synthesis. Students who diligently practice the KWC should have a good basis and be better prepared to synthesize word problems successfully.
Let's look at some sample lessons to see how the KWC can be used effectively to solve word problems. These lessons will build upon one another and will be used for approximately 2 weeks per lesson. The third lesson is an assessment lesson to get an idea if the KWC is working.
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