Overview of AP English Courses

Overview of AP English

• Types of Courses:
  • AP English Language and Composition
  • AP English Literature and Composition

AP English Language and Composition

• Focus:

  • Rhetorical analysis
  • Argumentation and synthesis of information
  • Close reading of nonfiction texts

• Key Skills:

  • Writing various forms (argumentative, analytical, narrative)
  • Understanding and employing rhetorical strategies
  • Analyzing and interpreting texts

• Exam Components:

  • Multiple-choice questions (about 45% of score)
  • Free-response section (about 55% of score)
    • Rhetorical analysis essay
    • Argumentative essay
    • Synthesis essay

AP English Literature and Composition

• Focus:

  • Analyzing works of literature (poetry, prose, drama)
  • Understanding literary devices and themes

• Key Skills:

  • Close reading of literary texts
  • Writing literary analysis essays
  • Developing interpretations and grounding arguments in text

• Exam Components:

  • Multiple-choice questions (about 45% of score)
  • Free-response section (about 55% of score)
    • Analysis of a poem
    • Analysis of prose passage
    • Open-ended essay on a work of literature

Preparation Tips

• Reading:

  • Read a wide variety of literary works and nonfiction texts.
  • Practice close reading and annotation to identify key themes and devices.

• Writing:

  • Practice writing essays under timed conditions.
  • Focus on thesis development, evidence support, and rhetorical strategies.

• Engagement:

  • Participate in class discussions to deepen understanding.
  • Study AP exam samples and rubrics to familiarize yourself with grading criteria.

Resources

• Textbooks & Anthologies: Use recommended AP English textbooks and literary anthologies.
• Online Practice: Utilize online resources for practice quizzes and writing prompts.
• Study Groups: Collaborate with peers for enhanced understanding and diverse perspectives.

AP English Overview

• Two different types of courses: AP English Language and Composition and AP English Literature and Composition
• Both courses prepare for the AP English Exam

AP English Language and Composition

• Focuses on argumentation, rhetoric, and analyzing nonfiction texts
• Key skills involve writing various forms, understanding rhetorical strategies, and analyzing and interpreting texts
• Exam includes multiple-choice questions and a free-response section with three essays:
  • Rhetorical analysis essay
  • Argumentative essay
  • Synthesis essay

AP English Literature and Composition

• Focuses on analyzing works of literature, understanding literary devices and themes
• Key skills involve analyzing literary texts, writing literary analysis essays, and developing interpretations grounded in the text
• Exam includes multiple-choice questions and a free-response section with three essays:
  • Analysis of a poem
  • Analysis of a prose passage
  • Open-ended essay on a work of literature

Preparation Tips

• Read a wide variety of literature and nonfiction texts
• Practice close reading and annotation to identify key themes and devices
• Write essays under timed conditions
• Focus on thesis development, evidence support, and rhetorical strategies
• Participate in class discussions
• Study AP exam samples and rubrics

Resources

• Use recommended AP English textbooks and literary anthologies
• Utilize online practice and writing prompts
• Collaborate with peers in study groups