The Advanced Placement (AP) Language and Composition course is a rigorous academic program designed to immerse high school students in the intricacies of the English language—specifically, its non-fiction facet. From argumentative essays to rhetorical analyses, the AP Language and Composition course offers a multitude of opportunities to sharpen your language skills and prepare for college-level work. This guide will cover some ways to succeed in the course and on the exam.

Understand the Curriculum

The AP Language and Composition course emphasizes three major skills:

1. Rhetorical Analysis: Analyzing prose passages to understand the author’s purpose, target audience, and argumentative strategies.

2. Argumentation: Constructing a reasoned, evidence-based argument.

3. Synthesis: Combining multiple sources of information to develop a coherent argument.

Study Strategies

Active Reading

• Annotation: Take notes in the margins and underline key points. Look for rhetorical devices, structural elements, and other noteworthy features.
• Summarization: After finishing each section, summarize the main ideas in your own words.

Writing Practice

• Draft and Revise: Your first draft is just that—a draft. Make sure to revise, seeking clarity, conciseness, and effectiveness in argumentation.
• Peer Reviews: Regularly have classmates or a teacher review your essays. This provides invaluable feedback that you might not catch on your own.

Preparing for Assessments

Class Assignments

• Timed Essays: You’ll frequently have timed essays. Practice under time constraints to get used to the pressure.
• Multiple-Choice Questions: These often focus on rhetorical strategies and techniques, so practice with real AP questions when possible.

AP Exam Preparation

• Official Practice Tests: The College Board offers practice tests. Simulate exam conditions as closely as possible when you take these.
• Review Books: Invest in a reputable AP Language and Composition review book to get practice questions and study tips.

Time Management

• Planning: Use planners or digital calendar apps to set reminders for assignment deadlines and study schedules.
• Pacing: Break down study materials into manageable portions. Don’t cram all at once; instead, spread your review sessions over several days or weeks.

Extra Resources

• Online Forums: Platforms like Reddit and AP Students Discord channels provide helpful insights and tips from peers who have already taken the exam.
• Study Groups: Form or join a study group to review material and discuss complex topics.

The AP Language and Composition course can be a rewarding experience for those who approach it with dedication, effective study strategies, and a willingness to engage deeply with the English language.

Looking for more personalized instruction? Consider our tailored instruction services to boost your AP Language and Composition skills to the next level.