Advanced Placement English Language & Composition
Rhetoric: the study of the effective use of language
Course Information
AP English Language and Composition is a course that focuses on nonfiction with an emphasis on persuasive and argumentative writing. Throughout the year, we will analyze essays, speeches, letters, and books with a focus on the author's purpose. What does the author want us to think? What does he want us to do? We need to find these answers in order to determine the extent of the manipulation that exists within each text, and that goal is achieved through careful analysis of diction, syntax, and tone. Students must further understand the complex relationship between writer, context, and audience. In essence, we will focus on rhetoric.
More about:
What's on the test?
The AP exam lasts for three hours and fifteen minutes. One hour is for the multiple choice portion of the test, which ranges between 50-60 questions on average. Fifteen minutes is set aside for students to read the articles that are required for the synthesis question, and the remaining time is for the students to write three essays.
The synthesis essay will require the student to read an assortment of articles and synthesize the information to write an argument using three of the sources. Another essay will require the student to analyze the rhetorical strategies of an essay. The final essay will require the student to write an argumentative essay.
To learn more about the exam, please visit CollegeBoard's page:
Mrs. Noel's Curriculum
In 2007, AP required its teachers to submit a course syllabus for approval and acceptance. Without this approval, a school may not use the AP name or logo in the course description guide. Below you will find a .pdf of my curriculum. Let me know if you have any questions.
Course Description Guide
College Board has an explanation about the course on its website. For more information, consult this page. This is also where you can find exam policies, test dates, and study tips.
