Synthesis: Legal Reading, Reasoning and Writing (Legal Research and Writing)

SYNTHESIS: Legal Reading, Reasoning, and Writing, Third Edition takes a step-by-step approach to outlining effective legal reasoning and writing skills. This in-depth text offers complete coverage of memo and brief writing, using one continual example to tie together the materials in the book. Utilizing a pedagogy that caters to a variety of learning styles, this text teaches students how to think like a lawyer and encourages an active application of skills through exercises and problem-solving opportunities.

An abundance of solid features make this text a dependable choice for your classroom:

utilizes a step-by-step approach to help guide students to understanding effective legal reasoning and writing tactics

teaches students how to think like a lawyer, discussing key topics such as how to read the law, how to reason about a client¿s situation, and how to write about it in different legal forms

uses one case file¿the HomeElderCare case involving the unauthorized practice of law¿to demonstrate how to carefully analyze a case from the initial client interview through appellate argument

maintains a pedagogy designed to reach those who learn in different ways, incorporating numerous charts and diagrams for visual learners

exercises in the book¿based on a tort law issue that is particularly understandable for first-year students¿provide opportunities for active application of skills

includes a Teacher¿s Manual that contains additional exercises based on different areas of the first-year curriculum, suggestions for how to use the book effectively, and sample syllabi Thoughtful changes to the Third Edition keep the text current for your classroom:

offers more consideration to transaction-based memos and advice letters

integrates material on demand letter

includes additional material on pleadings (complaints, answers, and discovery documents)

provides updated exercises and citation materials

supports negotiation by looking at how legal analysis frames deals and shapes dispute resolution