Reading Strategy: Synthesize

One way to synthesize is to form generalizations. A generalization is a statement that you can apply to more than one situation. For instance, if a teacher gave your class a hard test and gave your friend’s class a hard test, you might make the generalization that this teacher’s tests are difficult. As you read, combine details to form a generalization that you think is true.

Reading Strategy: Synthesize
    How to Form Generalizations

  • 1. Identify the Important Ideas As you read, look for ideas and details. Write them in a Generalization Chart.

  • 2. Look for a Relationship Among Ideas Ask yourself: What do these ideas or details have in common? What can I add to these ideas from my own personal knowledge or experience?

  • 3. Decide What to Think Form a generalization about the related facts that seem true, given the details you have collected.

Strategy in Action

Here’s how one student synthesized to form a generalization.

Look Into the Text

The Yakwawiak hurled down the trees and muddied the springs. They trampled everything underfoot as they went about the land. They crushed the humans and the animals under their feet, and the people had to hide in caves to escape them. Those great monsters did not remember the words of Kitselemukong, who said that all beings on earth should live together.

Generalization Chart

Details: Yakwawiak hurled trees, crushed humans and animals, and trampled everything underfoot. They did not listen to Kitselemukong.
How the Ideas Fit Together: The Yakwawiak needed to be stopped. They were destroying the Earth.
Generalization: We have to find a way to protect the Earth from harm.

Practice Together

As you read “The Legend of the Yakwawiak,” make generalizations. Follow the steps in the How-To box. Make your own Generalization Chart to keep track of your ideas.