AP Language and Composition Essay Review AP = Answer the ...



AP Language and Composition Essay Review AP = Answer the PromptSynthesisOpen Question (persuasive/argument)Analytical EssayRead instruction page thoroughly.Underline key words of promptSynthesis essays are usually position or argument style essays, so don’t let the words of the prompt confuse you.Formulate a tentative and specific position (before you read the passages) based on the prompt without using the words of the prompt.Read the documents carefully and annotate the main idea or position of each one.Underline evidence that might support your position.Failure to accurately represent a source could earn you a low anize and outline your essay.Your essay will need at least three different documents for supportMake adequate use of the sources by citing relevant examples; using just a few words doesn’t count; if you can say it in your own words, then it’s not a relevant quotation.Develop your sources by integrating them into a substantive discussion.Cite all evidence you use, directly or indirectly.Read the prompt carefully underlining the key words of the prompt.Make sure you understand the prompt. Some prompts include a short passage conveying a specific view. Do not write an analytical essay; write a persuasive/argument essay. Don't organize your argument around the prompts, rather drive your own argument, with occasional references to the passage( if you wish). Once you have stated your position you are not required to reference the prompt.Read the passage carefully, if there is one; the passage may be short or long.Understand (this is analytical) the writer’s position if there is one; reference it in your introduction.Write an outline; know where you are going before you write.Determine your position and write a clear and specific thesis.Define any vague or abstract terms as your reader may view these differently than you do.Brainstorm evidence to support your argument from the wealth of your own knowledgeExplain your reasoning and never jump to conclusions or make sweeping or unsubstantiated statements.Don’t assume your reader agrees with you.If you take a strong, one-sided view, provide a counter-argument.YOU MUST PROVIDE EXAMPLES TO SUPPORT YOUR CLAIMS.AVOID INTELLECTUALLY LAZY ARGUMENTS Read the prompt and make sure you understand it underlining key words.Read the passage and mark it up, making comments in the margins and identifying examples you might later use in your essay.Notice rhetorical strategies if that is the task (contrasts, exact repetitions, strands, anomalies). In general, pay attention to the progression of the passage noting any shifts in subject matter or tone.Pay attention to the attitude (tone) of the speaker.Sloppy or lazy reading is one of the primary reasons people do poorly on an analytical essay.Develop a thesis based on the prompt without using the words of the prompt, as they are much too vague.Plan your essay. Often, you can organize it around the passage (beginning, middle, end).Write: Cut to the chase. Don’t spend an inordinate amount of time on the intro and please avoid stating the obvious.Remember: “rhetorical strategies” or the “use of language” means how an author builds an argument and how he or she uses specific rhetorical choices, including syntax (language) to convey his or her position.YOUR MUST USE QUOTATIONS FROM THE TEXT TO SUPPORT YOUR CLAIMS.USE VERBS. USE VERBS. USE VERBS.AP Language Multiple Choice StrategiesThere are usually 54 questions on the multiple-choice passage, so you have about 15 minutes per passage.Make sure you have a time piece (but not a phone); one hour goes by very quickly.Read the passages critically and rhetorically for author’s purpose, main idea and the strategies the author uses to achieve his or her purpose.Annotate the passage by making brief comments. This will for you to read actively and visually.Notice the tone and the progression of the passage and the flow of ideas.Answer the questions carefully.Use the process of elimination for the difficult questions.Leave the most difficult questions until the end of each section.Reasons Answers May Be WrongSloppy or lazy reading is the biggest impediment to a good score. Be mindful and attentive.The answer choice is contradictory to the passageThe answer choice is irrelevant or not addressed in the passageThe answer choice is illogicalUnderstand whether the question is general or specific, whether it encompasses the content of the entire passage, or a specific quotation or sectionAll of these issues can be addressed by being very clear in your mind what the passage is actually about BEFORE you begin answering the questions (subject, context, audience, purpose, main idea, tone).Sloppy or lazy reading is the biggest impediment to a good score. (Yeah…here it is again)Stay CalmandBreathe.A positive or neutral state of mind is more likely to contribute to your success than a negative one. The brain functions optimally in such a state. ................
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