AP English Language and Composition Premium: A Comprehensive Guide to Exam Success

The College Board's Advanced Placement (AP) English Language and Composition Premium course equips high school students with the analytical, critical thinking, and writing skills essential for success in college-level English courses. This rigorous curriculum prepares students for the rigorous AP English Language and Composition Exam, which grants college credit and placement upon achieving a qualifying score.

AP English Language and Composition Premium: With 8 Practice Tests (Barron's Test Prep)

by George Ehrenhaft

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2436 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	808 pages

FREE

This article aims to provide an in-depth exploration of the AP English Language and Composition Premium course, offering valuable strategies, study tips, and expert insights to help students excel on the exam.

Course Overview

Course Structure

The AP English Language and Composition Premium course is divided into three main units:

• Unit 1: The Rhetorical Situation - Explores the elements of rhetorical analysis, examining how authors use language and structure to convey meaning and impact audiences.
• Unit 2: Making Meaning - Focuses on the development of close reading and literary analysis skills, enabling students to interpret and evaluate literary works.
• Unit 3: Composition - Provides structured instruction on writing analytical and argumentative essays, emphasizing clarity, organization, and evidence-based writing.

AP Exam Format

The AP English Language and Composition Exam is a three-hour and 15-minute exam divided into three sections:

1. Multiple Choice (45 minutes) - Consists of 55 multiple-choice questions that test students' knowledge of rhetorical analysis, vocabulary, and grammar.
2. Short Answer (75 minutes) - Includes three open-ended questions that require students to analyze passages, identify literary devices, and synthesize ideas.
3. Essays (90 minutes) - Comprises two essays: an analytical essay (30 minutes) and an argumentative essay (60 minutes).

Effective Study Strategies

Mastering Rhetorical Analysis

Thoroughly understand the concepts of rhetorical analysis, including purpose, audience, genre, tone, and style. Practice analyzing texts to identify how authors use rhetorical strategies to achieve their objectives.

Developing Close Reading Skills

Learn to read literary works closely, annotating and analyzing their structure, symbolism, figurative language, and themes. Focus on understanding the author's intent and the ways in which literary devices contribute to the meaning of the work.

Writing Sophisticated Essays

Develop strong essay-writing skills by understanding the structure and purpose of analytical and argumentative essays. Practice planning, drafting, revising, and editing your essays to ensure clarity, organization, and support for your arguments.

Expert Insights

Interview with Dr. Anne Snyder, AP English Language and Composition Teacher

Question: What are some common challenges students face in the AP English Language and Composition course?

Dr. Snyder: Students often struggle with rhetorical analysis, particularly in identifying rhetorical strategies and understanding how they work together to shape the author's message. Close reading skills are also crucial, as students need to be able to analyze literary works and make inferences about the author's intent and purpose.

Question: What advice would you give to students preparing for the AP English Language and Composition Exam?

Dr. Snyder: Start preparing early and consistently. Practice rhetorical analysis and close reading skills regularly. Seek feedback on your essays to improve your writing abilities. Most importantly, don't be afraid to ask for help when needed.

Tips for Exam Success

Multiple Choice Section

• Read each question and answer choice carefully.
• Identify the main idea or question being asked.
• Eliminate obviously incorrect answer choices.
• Use process of elimination to narrow down the best answer.

Short Answer Section

• Take a few minutes to read and analyze the passage.
• Identify the specific question being asked.
• Provide direct and concise answers, supporting your claims with evidence from the text.
• Use clear and precise language.

Essay Section

• Carefully read the prompt and identify the task.
• Plan and outline your essay before writing.
• Provide a strong thesis statement that clearly states your position.
• Use specific examples and evidence from the text to support your claims.
• Proofread carefully to ensure clarity and correctness.

The AP English Language and Composition Premium course provides students with a solid foundation in analytical, critical thinking, and writing skills, preparing them for success in college-level English courses and beyond. By implementing effective study strategies, seeking expert advice, and following the tips outlined in this article, students can increase their chances of achieving a top score on the AP English Language and Composition Exam.

Remember, consistent effort, dedication, and a positive attitude are key to mastering the AP English Language and Composition course and achieving your academic goals.

AP English Language and Composition Premium: With 8 Practice Tests (Barron's Test Prep)

by George Ehrenhaft

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2436 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	808 pages

FREE