Reading Strategy: Synthesize

When you draw conclusions about something you read, you think about what the text says, together with what you know. Then you draw conclusions, or decide what you believe, about what the text says.

Reading Strategy Synthesize
    How to Draw Conclusions

  • 1. As you read, notice important details in the text.

  • 2. Think about your own experience related to the text.

  • 3. Put the details together with your experience. Decide what you believe about the text. That is your conclusion.

Strategy in Action

Here’s how one student drew conclusions.

Look Into the Text

At thirteen-years-old, Virginia has just won the Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza. She competed against hundreds of young people, and now she is preparing for an evening concert.

“I hope to keep on singing and one day do it professionally,” Virginia says. “I want to make it big.”

Detail

Detail

Conclusion Chart

DetailMy ExperienceMy Conclusion
Virginia won a contest against hundreds of people. She will perform a concert.Performing in front of lots of people makes me uncomfortable.Virginia must feel comfortable being in front of people. I admire her.

Practice Together

Reread the passage above. Follow the steps in the How-To box to draw a conclusion of your own. Record your ideas in a Conclusion Chart.