Course Syllabus

Course Description / Overview:

Many students (and parents) see the AP English Language and Composition course and exam as ways to improve college prospects.  While this is certainly true, the skills of the course in and of themselves make the venture worthwhile.  The goal of the course is to give students an analytical mindset that will be needed in university, political, and "everyday" situations.

Class Goals/Outcomes:

  • The student will learn why one should take the course--or not.
  • The student will learn what rhetorical analysis is, and how it differs from "literary analysis."  (Yes, there is some overlap.)
  • The student will see rhetorical analysis modeled.
  • The student will practice rhetorical analysis.
  • The student will have an overview of the exam sections.
  • The scoring of the exam will be explained.
  • The student will learn what common errors to avoid.

 

Course Outline:

Day 1 Why take AP Language--and the AP exam?  Pros and Cons.
Day 2 Break down of the scoring--the sections of the exam.
Day 3 Analysis, not summary.  Ethos-Pathos-Logos
Day 4 Multiple choice strategies and practice.
Day 5 More multiple choice practice. The three types of essays--an overview.
Day 6 Source essay strategies and practice.
Day 7 Rhetorical analysis strategies and practice.
Day 8 Argument essay strategies and practice.

 

Student Expectations / Classroom Policies:

  • Keep your camera on, but don't be a distraction.
  • Be ready to be called on for comments.
  • Some reading of source material is required.

What Should I bring to Class?

  •  Source materials will usually be provided, but the student will also need to follow links online.
  • Being able to "mark up" (notate) source material is key.  If this can be done on one's computer fine.  Printing out material and using a pen is sometimes helpful.
  • Students should be able to find good examples of rhetoric independently, and be ready to share those.  This doesn't mean simply looking up "Good AP Language examples."  It means examining current editorials and controversies.