AP Lang MC Questions 1-22

Questions and Answers

Which of the following best describes the rhetorical function of the second sentence in the passage?

It makes an appeal to authority.

It expresses the causal relationship between morality and writing style.

It restates the thesis of the passage.

It provides a specific example for the preceding generalization.

It presents a misconception that the author will correct. (correct)

Which of the following phrases does the author use to illustrate the notion of an unnatural and pretentious writing style?

'pitch upon the very word' (line 34)

'get upon stilts' (lines 30-31) (correct)

'unconnected, slipshod allusions' (line 7)

'gabble on at a venture' (line 22)

'throw words together' (lines 8-9)

In lines 10-32 of the passage, the author uses an extended analogy between what?

Writing and speaking (correct)

Language and morality

Vulgar English and incorrect pronunciation

Ordinary life and the theater

Preaching and acting

In line 17, 'common speech' refers to what?

Unaffected expression Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following words is grammatically and thematically parallel to 'tone' (line 21)?

'solemnity' (line 21) Signup and view all the answers

In context, the expression 'to pitch upon' (line 34) is best interpreted as having which of the following meanings?

To succeed in finding Signup and view all the answers

The ability discussed in lines 35-38 is referred to elsewhere as which of the following?

'fine tact' (line 51) Signup and view all the answers

The author's observation in the sentence beginning 'It is clear' (lines 49-51) is best described as an example of which of the following?

Mocking tone Signup and view all the answers

In line 52, 'those' refers to which of the following?

I only (words) (line 45) Signup and view all the answers

The author's tone in the passage as a whole is best described as what?

Informal and analytical Signup and view all the answers

The speaker in the passage can best be described as a person who?

Is committed to developing his skills as a writer Signup and view all the answers

That the speaker 'sympathized with' the drunk's 'obsession' (lines 16-17) is ironic chiefly because the drunk?

Was a major source of the noise from which the speaker wished to escape Signup and view all the answers

It can be inferred that the speaker and the drunk were 'fellow victims' (line 22) in that?

Both were tormented by distracting disturbances Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Rhetorical Functions

The second sentence of the passage corrects a misconception held by the audience.
Illustrative phrases for unnatural writing include "get upon stilts," highlighting pretentiousness in style.

Analogies and Expressions

An extended analogy is drawn between writing and speaking to explore expressions in both forms.
"Common speech" indicates unaffected expression, emphasizing clarity in writing.

Language and Grammar

The word "tone" is thematically paired with "solemnity," indicating parallel concepts in the discussion of writing style.
The phrase "to pitch upon" suggests successfully finding something rather than other casual interpretations.

Author’s Observations

The author's observations reflect a mocking tone, addressing the popularity of familiar writing styles.
"Those" in line 52 specifically refers to "words," indicating a focus on language usage.

Tone and Perspective

The overall tone of the passage is informal and analytical, engaging readers without being overly didactic.
The speaker is focused on improving as a writer, showcasing commitment to craft over other interests like music.

Irony and Relationships

Irony arises from the speaker sympathizing with the drunk, who was ironically a source of distraction.
Both the speaker and the drunk are identified as "fellow victims," sharing the experience of being tormented by external disturbances.

Word Interpretations

The term "intimate," in context, conveys a sense of suggestive and lyrical expression, reflecting on depth and nuance in writing.

Description

Test your knowledge on rhetorical functions in language with these multiple-choice flashcards. Focus on understanding the nuances of rhetoric and the author's intent through various examples and explanations. Perfect for AP Language students looking to sharpen their skills.