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AP® English Writing Prompts and Analysis Resources
Human language is completely different from all other means of animal communication. The complexity of human communication exceeds that of some primates' use of sign language. Neanderthals, who are the closest genetic ancestors of our species, also never evolved complex communication like our own. 1 But even more than our ability to speak in complete sentences—and with an entire system of grammatical rules (regardless of which language is spoken)—nothing highlights the difference between humans and animals quite like the human ability to communicate with writing .
AP® English classes are centered around written communication. In both AP Literature and AP Language, students must be able to analyze a variety of written texts and also be able to construct their own. Students in AP Lang focus on rhetorical analysis, which requires students to analyze the rhetorical strategies employed by an author in a given text. AP Lit students, on the other hand, focus on literary analysis, which requires students to examine and interpret a literary work. Since both types of analyses require strong writing responses, it’s important to make sure students build strong communication and critical thinking skills through consistent writing and critical thinking practice.
AP English Language and Composition Writing Prompts
To develop their skills in AP Lang, students should regularly practice writing with AP Language writing prompts that encompass a wide range of rhetorical strategies and topics. These prompts can be incorporated into various classroom activities every day—five-minute bell-ringers, quick exit tickets, or even full writing assignments. The more AP Lang students practice writing with rhetorical prompts, the more they will refine their ability to analyze and respond effectively to complex texts. Additionally, practicing with AP Language writing prompts cultivates critical thinking, enhances persuasive writing techniques, and prepares students for the rigorous exam format.
The following section includes several AP Language writing prompts you can use in your AP Lang class. Each prompt correlates with specific course units and a big idea.
RHS (Rhetorical Situation): Units 1, 2, 4, 7, & 8
Individuals write within a particular situation and make strategic writing choices based on that situation.
| Skill Category 1 | Skill Category 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Explain how writers’ choices reflect the components of the rhetorical situation. | Make strategic choices in a text to address a rhetorical situation. | |
| : “An organization is planning a protest against a proposed law that they believe will infringe on citizens’ rights. Write a persuasive response arguing for or against the effectiveness of protests as a means of bringing about social and political change. Use specific examples to support your position.” | ||
| : “A company is launching a new product and wants to create a marketing campaign that appeals to a wide audience. Write a persuasive response analyzing the importance of understanding the target audience’s values, beliefs, and needs when crafting persuasive messages. Use real-world examples to illustrate your points.” | ||
| : “A high school is considering implementing a dress code policy to promote a positive learning environment. Write a persuasive response arguing for or against the implementation of a dress code policy in schools. Support your argument with evidence from research, personal experiences, or examples from other schools.” | ||
| : “A community is debating whether to ban single-use plastic bags in grocery stores to reduce environmental waste. Write a persuasive response discussing the ethical implications of using single-use plastic bags and arguing for or against the ban. Use logical reasoning and evidence to support your stance.” | ||
CLE (Claims and Evidence): Units 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, & 9
Writers make claims about subjects, rely on evidence that supports the reasoning that justifies the claim, and often acknowledge or respond to other, possibly opposing, arguments.
| Skill Category 3 | Skill Category 4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Identify and describe the claims and evidence of an argument. | Analyze and select evidence to develop and refine a claim. | |
| : “Many people argue that social media has a detrimental impact on interpersonal communication skills because it promotes superficial interactions. Do you agree or disagree? Use specific claims and evidence to support your response.” | ||
| : “Some individuals claim that standardized tests are not an accurate measure of a student’s abilities and should be abolished. What is your stance on this issue? Provide reasoned arguments and supporting evidence to defend your position.” | ||
| : “Writers often employ rhetorical devices to enhance their persuasive arguments. Choose a piece of literature or a speech that makes effective use of rhetorical devices and analyze how these devices contribute to the writer’s claims and evidence.” | ||
| : “The use of technology in classrooms has become a controversial topic. Do you believe that integrating technology into the learning environment positively or negatively impacts student learning? Make a claim supported by evidence and consider opposing arguments.” | ||
REO (Reasoning and Organization): Units 3, 4, & 5
Writers guide understanding of a text’s lines of reasoning and claims through that text’s organization and integration of evidence.
| Skill Category 5 | Skill Category 6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Describe the reasoning, organization, and development of an argument. | Use organization and commentary to illuminate the line of reasoning in an argument. | |
| : “Some people argue that social media has had a detrimental effect on communication skills, as it often encourages shallow and brief interactions. Do you agree or disagree with this claim? Use specific reasons and examples to support your response.” | ||
| : “Advertising plays a significant role in shaping consumer behavior and choices. Do you believe that advertisements should be more regulated to ensure they provide accurate information and do not manipulate consumers? Explain your position and support it with reasoning and evidence.” | ||
| : “The use of technology, such as smartphones and tablets, has become increasingly prevalent in educational settings. In your opinion, does technology enhance or hinder students’ learning experiences? Use specific examples and reasoning to support your viewpoint.” | ||
| : “Many people argue that standardized tests, such as the SAT or ACT, do not accurately measure a student’s intelligence or potential. Do you think standardized tests are an effective way to assess students’ abilities? Why or why not? Provide specific reasons and examples to support your response.” | ||
STL (Style): Units 5, 6, 7, & 8
The rhetorical situation informs the strategic stylistic choices that writers make.
| Skill Category 7 | Skill Category 8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Explain how writers’ stylistic choices contribute to the purpose of an argument. | Select words and use elements of composition to advance an argument. | |
| : “Analyze the following sentence: “The sun shone brightly, casting a golden glow over the emerald fields.” How does the author’s choice of adjectives contribute to the overall style of the sentence? What effect does it create?” | ||
| : “Consider the rhetorical situation of a political speech. How might a speaker strategically use rhetorical devices such as repetition or parallelism to enhance their message and engage the audience? Provide specific examples to support your analysis.” | ||
| : “Choose a passage from a novel, essay, or speech and identify the author’s tone. How does the author’s tone shape the overall style and impact of the piece? Discuss the specific language choices that contribute to the tone.” | ||
| : “Imagine you are writing a persuasive essay advocating for the importance of arts education in schools. How would you strategically employ stylistic devices, such as vivid imagery or emotional appeals, to effectively convey your argument? Provide specific examples of how these stylistic choices would strengthen your persuasive message.” | ||
*AP® English Language and Composition Course and Exam Description 2
AP Lang Rhetorical Analysis Resources
In AP English Language and Composition, rhetorical analysis reigns supreme. But before students can practice applying their knowledge of constructing responses to rhetorical analysis prompts, they must first learn how to do so. Therefore, when teaching its concepts and processes to students, having quality rhetorical analysis resources is especially helpful to AP Language teachers.
The following is a list of our favorite free rhetorical analysis resources for the AP Lang classroom:
- Stacie Kaminski: A Deep Dive into Rhetorical Analysis
- The Garden of English: How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay from Beginning to End
- Angie Kratzer: Rhetorical Analysis
- Christy’s Classroom: Rhetorical Analysis Portfolio
- Coach Hall Writes: AP Lang Teachers
AP English Literature and Composition Writing Prompts
AP English Literature and Composition students should practice writing prompts that challenge their ability to analyze and interpret literary works across different genres and time periods. These AP Literature writing prompts can be seamlessly integrated into brief 5-minute bell-ringers or concise exit tickets, as well as longer assignments that delve deeper into literary analysis. By engaging with AP Literature writing prompts regularly, students sharpen their critical thinking skills, develop a nuanced understanding of literary techniques, and hone their ability to craft insightful and cohesive responses. The following table includes
The following section includes several AP Literature writing prompts you can use in your AP Lit class. Each prompt correlates with specific course units and a big idea.
CHR (Character): Units 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, & 9
Characters in literature allow readers to study and explore a range of values, beliefs, assumptions, biases, and cultural norms represented by those characters.
| Skill Category 1 | |
|---|---|
| Explain the function of character. | |
| : “Consider a character from a novel or play that you have read in this course. How does this character’s values and beliefs reflect the societal norms and cultural context of the time in which the work was written? Support your response with specific examples from the text.” | |
| : “Think about a character from a literary work who undergoes a significant transformation throughout the course of the story. What values or beliefs does this character initially hold, and how do they change over time? Discuss the factors that contribute to this character’s transformation, using specific evidence from the text.” | |
| : “Choose a character from a literary work who challenges or subverts traditional gender roles or societal expectations. Analyze how this character’s actions and beliefs provide a critique of the prevailing cultural norms at the time the work was written. Use specific examples from the text to support your analysis.” | |
| : “Select a character from a literary work who embodies a particular ideology or belief system. Discuss how this character’s values and assumptions shape their actions and interactions with other characters. Consider the implications of this character’s ideology in relation to the broader themes and messages of the work.” |
SET (Setting): Units 1, 3, 4, & 7
Setting and the details associated with it not only depict a time and place, but also convey values associated with that setting.
| Skill Category 2 | |
|---|---|
| Explain the function of setting. | |
| : “We have explored how setting can convey values associated with a particular time and place. Choose a novel or play from the unit and analyze how the setting contributes to the overall themes and messages of the work.” | |
| : “Select a poem or short story from this unit and discuss how the author’s choice of setting enhances the meaning and impact of the work.” | |
| : “We’ve examined the role of setting in shaping characters and their experiences. Choose a novel or play from the unit and analyze how the setting influences the development of a specific character.” | |
| : “Select a poem, short story, or novel from this unit and discuss how the details associated with the setting create a particular atmosphere or mood in the text.” |
STR (Structure): Units 1-9
The arrangement of the parts and sections of a text, the relationship of the parts to each other, and the sequence in which the text reveals information are all structural choices made by a writer that contribute to the reader’s interpretation of a text.
| Skill Category 3 | |
|---|---|
| Explain the function of plot and structure. | |
| : “Analyze the structural choices made by the author in a novel or play you have recently read. How does the arrangement of the parts and sections of the text contribute to your interpretation of the work? Provide specific examples to support your analysis.” | |
| : “Choose a poem and examine its structure. How does the sequence and organization of the lines and stanzas enhance the overall meaning and impact of the poem? Discuss the relationship between the parts and how it contributes to your understanding of the poem.” | |
| : “Select a short story and discuss how the author’s structural choices, such as the order of events, flashbacks, or narrative perspective, shape your interpretation of the story. Explain how these structural elements affect the pacing, tension, or overall message of the narrative.” | |
| : “Consider a non-fiction text you have read recently, such as an essay or article. Explore the structural choices made by the writer, such as the use of headings, subheadings, or the organization of arguments. Discuss how these structural elements impact your understanding of the text and its effectiveness in conveying the writer’s ideas.” |
NAR (Narration): Units 1, 4, 6, 7, & 9
A narrator’s or speaker’s perspective controls the details and emphases that affect how readers experience and interpret a text.
| Skill Category 4 | |
|---|---|
| Explain the function of the narrator or speaker. | |
| : “Think about a book or short story you’ve read where the narrator’s perspective influenced your interpretation of the text. Describe a specific instance where the narrator’s unreliability or bias affected your understanding of the story. How did it shape your reading experience?” | |
| : “Choose a work of literature where multiple narrators or points of view were employed. Discuss how the use of different perspectives enhanced your understanding of the characters, plot, or themes. What unique insights did each narrator offer?” | |
| : “Reflect on a book or poem you’ve read where the author’s choice of narrator significantly influenced your emotional response. Describe the qualities or characteristics of the narrator that contributed to this effect. How did the narrator’s voice shape your connection to the story?” | |
| : “Think about a text you’ve read where the narrator intentionally withholds or reveals information, creating suspense or surprise. Describe a specific instance where the narrator’s control over details influenced your engagement with the story. How did the author’s use of narrative manipulation affect your reading experience?” |
FIG (Figurative Language): Units 2, 5, 6, 7, & 8
Comparisons, representations, and associations shift meaning from the literal to the figurative and invite readers to interpret a text.
| Skill Category 5 | Skill Category 6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Explain the function of word choice, imagery, and symbols. | Explain the function of comparison. | |
| : “Choose a metaphor from a novel or play we’ve studied and explain how it enhances the reader’s understanding of a character, theme, or plot. Be sure to include specific examples from the text in your response.” | ||
| : “Identify one instance of personification in a poem of your choice and discuss its impact on the reader’s interpretation of the poem. How does the poet’s use of personification contribute to the overall meaning or theme of the poem? Provide specific details from the text to support your analysis.” | ||
| : “Choose a passage from a short story or essay we’ve discussed and analyze the author’s use of symbolism. How does the symbolic representation deepen the reader’s understanding of the text? Cite specific examples from the passage to support your analysis.” | ||
| : “Identify a piece of figurative language from a literary work you’ve recently read. Explain how the comparison, representation, or association used in the figurative language enhances the meaning of the text.” | ||
LAN (Literary Argumentation): Units 1-9
Readers establish and communicate their interpretations of literature through arguments supported by textual evidence.
| Skill Category 7 | |
|---|---|
| Develop textually substantiated arguments about interpretations of part or all of a text. | |
| Prompt 1: “Analyze the following statement: “Literature should always provide a clear moral lesson for readers.” Do you agree or disagree? Use specific examples from literary texts to support your argument.” | |
| Prompt 2: “Some critics argue that the author’s intent is irrelevant when interpreting a work of literature, as readers create their own meaning. Discuss your stance on this issue and support it with examples from literary texts.” | |
| : “Consider the role of setting in literature. How does the setting contribute to the overall meaning and impact of a work? Use specific examples from literary texts to support your analysis.” | |
| : “Analyze the use of symbolism in literature. Discuss how symbolism enhances the themes or ideas presented in a work of your choice. Provide specific examples to illustrate your points.” |
*AP® English Literature and Composition Course and Exam Description 3
AP Lit Literary Analysis Resources
Literary analysis is perhaps the most important skill in AP English Literature and Composition. However, before students can put their understanding of this skill into practice with prompt responses, they must first learn how to do so. This is why, when teaching literary analysis concepts and processes to students, having high-quality and relevant resources is especially helpful to AP Literature teachers.
Here is a list of our top free literary analysis tools for AP Literature classes:
- The Garden of English: Literary Analysis Templates for Poetry, Prose, and Literary Argument
- Mrs. Wilensky: Welcome to AP Literature
- Study.com: Examples of English Literary Analysis
- Lit & More: Teaching Line of Reasoning to AP English Lit
- Reading and Writing Haven: 10 of the Best Literary Analysis Activities to Elevate Thinking
Key Takeaways
In both AP Literature and AP Language courses, students must learn to analyze diverse written texts and construct compelling written compositions. AP Language emphasizes rhetorical analysis skills, whereas AP Lit students must immerse themselves in the art of literary analysis. Given that both types of analysis require adept written responses, AP English teachers must foster the development of strong writing and critical thinking abilities among their students through consistent practice.
Learn more about how UWorld can support AP English teachers who want to help their students develop their critical analysis skills with our Learning Tools for AP Courses .
- Pagel, M. (2017, July 24). Q&A: What is human language, when did it evolve and why should we care? - BMC biology . BioMed Central. https://bmcbiol.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12915-017-0405-3#:~:text=Human%20language%20is%20unique%20among,is%20nothing%20like%20human%20language .
- The College Board. (2020). AP English Language and Composition: Course and Exam Description . AP Central. https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/media/pdf/ap-english-language-and-composition-course-and-exam-description.pdf
- The College Board. (2020b). AP English Literature and Composition: Course and Exam Description . AP Central. https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/courses/ap-english-literature-and-composition
- Recco, W., & Schultz, C. (2003). 501 writing prompts - mrsmitchellsaplanguage.weebly.com . EBSCO Learning Express. http://mrsmitchellsaplanguage.weebly.com/uploads/5/9/1/2/59122629/501writingprompts.pdf
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How to Write the AP Lang Rhetorical Essay
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What is the ap lang rhetorical essay, tips for writing the ap lang rhetorical essay.
- AP Lang Rhetorical Essay Example
How Will AP Scores Affect College Chances?
The AP English Language Exam is one of the most common AP exams you can take. However, the average score on the exam in 2020 was a 2.96 out of 5. While this may seem a bit low, it is important to note that over 550,000 students take the exam annually. With some preparation and knowing how to study, it is totally possible to do well on this AP exam.
The AP Lang Rhetorical Essay is one section of the AP English Language Exam. The exam itself is 3 hours and 15 minutes long, and is broken into two sections. The first part of the exam is a 60 minute, 45-question multiple-choice section. The questions on this part of the exam will test your ability to read a passage and then interpret its meaning, style, and overall themes. After the multiple-choice section, there is a section lasting 2 hours and 15 minutes with three “free response” essays. This includes the synthesis essay, the rhetorical analysis essay, and the argument essay.
- In the synthesis essay , you will have to develop an argument using pieces of evidence provided to you.
- The argumentative essay will have you pick a side in a debate and argue for or against it.
- The rhetorical essay requires that you discuss how an author’s written passage contributes to a greater meaning or theme.
The rhetorical essay is perhaps the most unique of all AP Lang exam essays because it requires the test taker to analyze and interpret the deeper meanings of the passage and connect them to the author’s writing style and writing syntax in only 40 minutes. This essay can be the trickiest because it requires you to have knowledge of rhetorical strategies and then apply them to a passage you’ve never seen before.
1. Outline Your Essay Before Writing
One of the most important parts of the AP Lang essays is structuring your essay so that it makes sense to the reader. This is just as important as having good content. For this essay in particular, you’ll want to read the passage first and write a brief outline of your points before you begin the essay. This is because you will want to write the essay using the passage chronologically, which will be discussed in detail below.
2. Understand Rhetorical Strategies
If you feel like you don’t know where to start as you prepare to study for the rhetorical essay portion of the exam, you aren’t alone. It is imperative that you have a grasp on what rhetorical strategies are and how you can use them in your essay. One definition of rhetoric is “language carefully chosen and arranged for maximum effect.” This can include types of figurative language (metaphor, simile, personification, pun, irony, etc.) elements of syntax (parallelism, juxtaposition, anthesis, anaphora, etc), logical fallacies, or persuasive appeals. Overall, there are many elements that you can analyze in an essay and having a good grasp on them through practice and memorization is important.
3. Keep the Essay Well Structured
Even if you understand the various rhetorical strategies you can use, where do you begin? First of all, you’ll want to write a strong introduction that outlines the purpose of the piece. At the end of this introduction, you will write a thesis statement that encapsulates all the rhetorical strategies you discuss. Perhaps these are style elements, tone, or syntax. Be sure to be specific as you list these.
Next, you will create your body paragraphs. As you discuss the rhetorical elements in the piece and tie them back to the work’s meanings, be sure to discuss the points in chronological order. You don’t have to discuss every single strategy, but just pick the ones that are most important. Be sure to cite the line where you found the example. At the end of the essay, write a short conclusion that summarizes the major points above.
4. Be Sure to Explain Your Examples
As you write the essay, don’t just list out your examples and say something like “this is an example of ethos, logos, pathos.” Instead, analyze how the example shows that rhetoric device and how it helps the author further their argument. As you write the rhetorical essay, you’ll want to be as specific and detail-focused as possible.
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AP Lang Rhetorical Analysis Essay Example
Below is a prompt and example for a rhetorical essay, along with its score and what the writer did well and could have improved:
The passage below is an excerpt from “On the Want of Money,” an essay written by nineteenth-century author William Hazlitt. Read the passage carefully. Then write an essay in which you analyze the rhetorical strategies Hazlitt uses to develop his position about money.
Student essay example:
In his essay, Hazlitt develops his position on money through careful use of adjectives and verbs, hypothetical situations, and images. His examples serve to impress upon the reader the highly negative consequences of being in “want of money.”
Hazlitt’s word choice in his opening phrase provides an example of his technique in the rest of the essay. It is not necessary to follow “literally” with “truly” yet his repetition of the same ideas emphasizes his point. In his next sentence, one that lasts forty-six lines, Hazlitt condignly repeats similar ideas, beating into his audience the necessity of having money in this world. The parallelism throughout that one long sentence, “it is not to be sent for to court, or asked out to dinner…it is not to have your own opinion consulted or sees rejected with contempt..” ties the many different situations Haziltt gives together. What could have become a tedious spiel instead becomes a melodious recitation, each example reminding you of one before it, either because of the similarities in structure or content. Hazlitt addresses many different negative effects of not having money but manages to tie them together with his rhetorical strategies.
The diction of the passage fully relays Hazlitt’s position about money. In every example he gives a negative situation but in most emphasizes the terrible circumstance with strong negative adjectives or verbs. “Rejected,” “contempt,” “disparaged,” “scrutinized,” “irksome,” “deprived,” “assailed” “chagrin;” the endless repetition of such discouragement shows how empathetically Hazlitt believes money is a requisite for a happy life. Even the irony of the last sentences is negative, conveying the utter hopelessness of one without money. Through one may have none in life, pitiless men will proceed to mock one’s circumstances, “at a considerable expense” after death!
In having as the body of his essay one long sentence, Hazlitt creates a flow that speeds the passage along, hardly giving the reader time to absorb one idea before another is thrown at him. The unceasing flow is synonymous with Hazlitt’s view of the life of a person without money: he will be “jostled” through life, unable to stop and appreciate the beauty around him or to take time for his own leisure.
The score on this essay was a 6 out of 6. This essay started out very strong as the student had a concrete thesis statement explaining the strategies that Hazlitt used to develop his position on money as well as Hazlitt’s belief on the topic. In the thesis statement, the student points out that adjectives, verbs, hypothetical situations, and images help prove Hazlitt’s point that wanting money can be problematic.
Next, the student broke down their points into three main subsections related to their thesis. More specifically, the student first discusses word choice of repetition and parallelism. When the student discusses these strategies, they list evidence in the paragraph that can be found chronologically in Hazlitt’s essay. The next paragraph is about diction, and the student used specific adjectives and verbs that support this idea. In the last paragraph, the student emphasized how the speed and flow of the essay helped describe Hazlitt’s viewpoint on life. This last concluding sentence is particularly thoughtful, as it goes beyond the explicit points made in the essay and discusses the style and tone of the writing.
It is important to remember that in some ways, the rhetorical essay is also an argumentative essay, as the student must prove how certain rhetorical strategies are used and their significance in the essay. The student even discussed the irony of the paragraph, which is not explicit in the passage.
Overall, this student did an excellent job organizing and structuring the essay and did a nice job using evidence to prove their points.
Now that you’ve learned about the AP Lang rhetorical essay, you may be wondering how your AP scores impact your chances of admission. In fact, your AP scores have relatively little impact on your admissions decision , and your course rigor has much more weight in the application process.
If you’d like to know your chances of admission, be sure to check out our chancing calculator! This tool takes into account your classes, extracurriculars, demographic information, and test scores to understand your chances at admission at over 600 schools. Best of all, it is completely free!
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How to Write the AP Lang Synthesis Essay with Example
September 5, 2023
If you’re highly interested in learning more about writing analysis, then chances are you enrolled in AP Lang. Essentially, AP Lang is an advanced course for high schoolers that combines interest and knowledge in English with critical thinking. In the class, students learn how to analyze and synthesize a variety of texts to construct well-reasoned arguments. If you take AP Lang, then you can opt to take the AP test at the conclusion of the school year. On the exam, students write the AP Lang synthesis essay to demonstrate their learned abilities. In this article, we’ll look at what the AP Lang synthesis essay requires and show an example to provide better understanding of what to expect on the exam.
AP Lang Exam Basics
The AP Lang exam is separated into two sections. In the first section, students have one hour to answer a series of 45 multiple-choice questions. Here, about half of the questions are based on passages students read. The other half are focused on the best revision techniques. Essentially, the answers for the latter 20-22 questions are geared toward revising mock essays.
In this article, however, we’ll focus mainly on the second part of the exam: the AP Lang synthesis essay.
In this second section, students have two hours and 15 minutes to write three essays of their own design. The three open-ended questions in this section are intended to be free-response and allow for a variety of approaches. Each question is intended to allow up to 40 minutes to complete.
For the AP Lang synthesis essay, students are presented with a scenario of the College Board’s design. The scenario will provide its own thesis statement. Usually, scenarios relate to real-world problems like environmental concerns, media, or government policies.
For each scenario, students are provided with 6-7 outside sources. These sources could be in the form of an image, visual graph, or written paragraph. For written paragraphs, the sources are usually no more than 500 words.
Students are then expected to incorporate at least 3-4 of these outside sources into their essay response. The outside sources are intended to be used as supporting evidence for the student’s chosen stance or argument. Students are able to either agree with or disagree with the thesis presented in the original scenario.
AP Lang Exam – Scoring
In the second part of the AP Lang exam, students can earn a possible 6 points on each essay. 1 point is earned for the development of a thesis. Up to 4 points can be earned for evidence and commentary. The final 1 point is earned for sophistication of thought.
AP Lang Exam – Takeaways
Ultimately, the goal of the AP Lang synthesis essay is not whether the student is “right” or “wrong” in their argument. The key is that students are able to reasonably and clearly support their argument using the provided sources as evidence .
The College Board looks for your ability to identify relationships between texts , form a coherent argument , and interpret external sources .
Synthesis Essay AP Lang Examples
If you’re not sure how the questions will look on the AP Lang synthesis essay section, we’ll provide an example. After the example, we’ll break down the strengths and weaknesses of the response. That way, you’ll have a better idea of what the College Board is looking for.
Additionally, the College Board has released previous AP Lang synthesis essay examples you can review. They even have essay questions as recent as 2022 . For further support, a scoring commentary and comments from the Chief Reader are also available to view. Additionally, there are other examples you can view from earlier years .
Note: A good strategy to study for the synthesis essay AP Lang exam is to review your rhetorical devices and literary devices . Understanding how these devices function can be essential in constructing a cohesive essay.
Synthesis Essay AP Lang Examples – Sample Question
Below is a sample question from the AP Lang synthesis essay and a response to the prompt. This question was taken directly from a 2022 exam . However, the response to the question will be originally crafted for the purpose of this newsletter. As well, all supporting evidence will be originally created and does not correspond to any previous test.
The Question
Since the early 2000s, the United States government and a number of corporations have sponsored initiatives to improve education in the STEM disciplines: science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The emphasis on STEM subjects in elementary, secondary, and higher education reflects concerns that United States students are less proficient in these areas than are students in other countries. Additionally, there is a belief that mastery in STEM fields is now essential in order to join a highly technical and specialized workforce. However, not everyone is convinced that a STEM-focused curriculum is necessary and/or effective.
In your response you should do the following:
- Respond to the prompt with a thesis that presents a defensible
- Select and use evidence from at least three of the provided sources to support your line of Indicate clearly the sources used through direct quotation, paraphrase, or summary. Sources may be cited as Source A, Source B, etc., or by using the description in parentheses.
- Explain how the evidence supports your line of
- Use appropriate grammar and punctuation in communicating your
How to Approach the Question
Maybe your first thought upon seeing this block of text is to feel overwhelmed. But don’t panic. There are effective ways to approach the question so you will be more prepared in your response.
It’s a good strategy to first isolate the thesis . What is the main idea of the text, and what is its argument?
Try it out. Reread the prompt and see if you can identify what the statement is asking you to develop an opinion on.
Think you’ve got it? In this example, we will be focusing on whether or not a STEM-focused curriculum in K-12 education is necessary and/or effective. In short, we will be arguing either for (highlighting the benefits) or against (highlighting the pitfalls) a STEM-focused curriculum.
How do we know what this statement is asking us?
Well, the statement provides a lot of background information. For example, we receive a definition of what STEM stands for. As well, we know that since 2000, there has been a greater initiative for STEM-focused classes.
When you read the prompt for the first time, it’s a great strategy to learn how to differentiate between background and contextual information from the heart of the argument .
A good way to learn how to isolate the argument is to look for transition words. Usually, these appear near the end of the question. Words like “however” and “yet” are signals that the statement is offering a differing opinion. Typically, the statement will tell you which two positions it’s offering for argument. These opinions are usually signaled by contrasting transition words.
So, now that we know what the question is asking us, what is the best way to respond?
Synthesis Essay AP Lang Examples – Sample Answer
The following is an essay response I crafted to the above question. After reading the sample, I will break down what it does well and what areas can be improved.
A STEM-focused curriculum is not as essential to providing a meaningful K-12 education. Because the majority of high school students are not proficient in STEM-focused classes, prioritizing these classes causes harm to student’s mental health and academic performance.
As seen in Source A, 60% of high school seniors in the Midwest only scored a C average in math and science-based classes (Langston). This statistic suggests that the majority of students do not resonate with STEM classes and therefore perform poorly. Earning a low score in any class does not bode well for students’ mental health.
When looking at the primary argument in Source C, it’s clear that most high schoolers prefer creative outlets to fact-based research (Kohler). Allowing students the opportunity to be more creative and initiate conversations about coursework lets students be more active in their learning. When students can discuss the nuance in their opinions, more personal growth happens. These conversations are not always easy to have in STEM-focused classes.
As well, when looking back to Source A, it’s clear that high school students in the Midwest earned higher grades, on average, in their English and art classes (Langston). This figure suggests that students perform better in these classes because they relate more to the source material. When relating to what they learn, they perform better in class.
In conclusion, STEM-focused curriculum is not as essential in K-12 education because most high school students do not relate to their STEM classes. When students do not earn satisfactory grades in these classes, it negatively affects their future college applications and job prospects.
Synthesis Essay AP Lang Examples – Answer Breakdown
So, what does this essay response get right, and where can it be improved? Let’s start with what the response does well.
First, the response establishes its thesis right away. Usually, it’s a good idea to clearly state your argument within the first paragraph. Not only is this a good practice because a reader can easily identify your stance, but also you can refer to your thesis as you write to make you stay on track.
With your thesis, it’s also a good idea to include one to two supporting sentences with the reasons why the thesis is concluded . Like in this example, I wrote that STEM-focused classes should not be prioritized because they can negatively affect both mental health and academic performance.
Another positive aspect of this response is that it is sure to not only reference but also cites its sources . It’s important that the reader understand where your information is coming from. That way, the readers can ensure you are interpreting the sources correctly.
AP Lang Synthesis Essay (Continued)
However, when rereading the instructions, it’s clear that this response fails the basic requirement of referring to at least three sources. Always make sure to reread the instructions to ensure you meet the standard requirements for incorporating source material.
Further, this AP Lang synthesis essay does not fully support its arguments . Ideas are simply stated and are not expanded upon.
For example, I mentioned a few times that earning low grades in STEM classes leads to negative mental health for high school students. However, there is no source referenced that either confirms or denies this claim. Therefore, there is no sufficient evidence to support my argument. It relies purely on inference.
Additionally, this AP Lang synthesis essay does not arrive at a sufficient level of sophistication of thought . Basically, sophistication of thought means avoiding broad generalizations and vague claims. The more specific you can be, the better your argument will sound.
Synthesis Essay AP Lang – In Conclusion
In the end, it’s always helpful to read the prompt thoroughly before writing. As well, making notes while you read could be a good strategy to pinpoint main ideas both in the prompt and the sources. That way, you can reread the material quickly. Similarly, sketching an outline may also be helpful. In addition, you should always carefully read the instructions to ensure all guidelines are followed.
As long as you avoid broad generalizations and use enough supporting evidence for your claim, you will be on the right path!
- High School Success
Meghan Dairaghi
With a BA in English and an MFA in Creative Writing, Meghan has served as a writing tutor at the University of Missouri St. Louis and Maryville University. Additionally, Meghan has held editorial roles at River Styx and Boulevard, and was a prose reader at Farside Review . Most recently, her work has been featured in Belle Ombre , Flypaper Lit , and Mag 20/20 , among others, and she was nominated for the Mary Troy Prize in Fiction.
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AP English Language and Composition
Learn all about the course and exam. Already enrolled? Join your class in My AP.
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About the Exam
The AP English Language and Composition Exam will test your understanding of the concepts covered in the course units, as well as your ability to analyze texts and develop written arguments.
New for 2024-25: MCQs Will Have Four Answer Choices
Starting in the 2024-25 school year, AP English Language and Composition multiple-choice questions (MCQs) will have four answer choices instead of five. This change will take effect with the 2025 exam. All resources have been updated to reflect this change.
Wed, May 14, 2025
AP English Language and Composition Exam
This is the regularly scheduled date for the AP English Language and Composition Exam.
Exam Components
Section 1: multiple choice.
45 questions 45% of Score
Excerpts from nonfiction texts are accompanied by several multiple-choice questions:
- 23–25 Reading questions: You’ll be asked to read and analyze nonfiction texts.
- 20–22 Writing questions: You’ll be asked to read like a writer and consider revisions to the text.
Section 2: Free Response
3 questions 55% of Score
The 2 hour and 15 minute time limit for this section includes a 15-minute reading period.
In the free-response section, you’ll respond to three questions with written answers. This section tests your skill in composition in three areas:
- Synthesis: After reading 6 texts about a topic (including visual and quantitative sources), you will compose an argument that combines and cites at least 3 of the sources to support your thesis.
- Rhetorical analysis: You will read a nonfiction text and analyze how the writer’s language choices contribute to the intended meaning and purpose of the text.
- Argument: You will create an evidence-based argument that responds to a given topic.
Exam Essentials
Exam preparation, ap classroom resources.
Once you join your AP class section online, you’ll be able to access AP Daily videos, any assignments from your teacher, and your assignment results in AP Classroom. Sign in to access them.
- Go to AP Classroom
Free-Response Questions and Scoring Information
Go to AP Central to review free-response questions and scoring information from past exams.
AP English Language and Composition Course and Exam Description
This is the core document for the course. It clearly lays out the course content and describes the exam and AP Program in general.
Services for Students with Disabilities
Students with documented disabilities may be eligible for accommodations for the through-course assessment and the end-of-course exam. If you’re using assistive technology and need help accessing the PDFs in this section in another format, contact Services for Students with Disabilities at 212-713-8333 or by email at [email protected] . For information about taking AP Exams, or other College Board assessments, with accommodations, visit the Services for Students with Disabilities website.
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Expert Guide to the AP Language and Composition Exam
Advanced Placement (AP)
With the 2023 AP English Language and Composition exam happening on Tuesday, May 9, it's time to make sure that you're familiar with all aspects of the exam. In this article, I'll give a brief overview of the test, do a deeper dive on each of the sections, discuss how the exam is scored, offer some strategies for studying, and finally wrap up with some essential exam day tips.
Exam Overview
The AP Language and Composition exam tests your rhetorical and composition skills. Essentially, how do authors construct effective arguments in their writing? What tools do they use? How can you use those tools to craft effective writing yourself? That is the essence of rhetorical analysis.
The exam has two parts: the first section is an hour-long, 45 question multiple-choice section. It includes five sets of questions, each based on a passage or passages. In this section, there will be 23-25 rhetorical analysis questions which test your rhetorical skills. There will also be 20-22 writing questions which require you to consider revisions to the texts you're shown.
The second section is free response. It starts with a 15-minute reading period, and then you'll have 120 minutes to write three analytical essays:
- One essay where you synthesize several provided texts to create an argument
- One essay where you analyze a nonfiction passage for its rhetorical construction
- One essay where you create an original argument in response to a prompt.
You will have about 40 minutes to write each essay, but no one will prompt you to move from essay to essay—you can structure the 120 minutes as you wish.
In the next sections I'll go over each section of the exam more closely—first multiple choice, and then free response.
The AP English Language and Composition Multiple-Choice
The multiple-choice section tests you on two main areas. The first is how well you can read and understand nonfiction passages for their use of rhetorical devices and tools. The second is how well you can "think like a writer" and make revisions to texts in composition questions.
You will be presented with five passages, about which you will receive a small amount of orienting information, e.g. "This passage is excerpted from a collection of essays on boating" or "This passage is excerpted from an essay written in 19th-century Haiti." Each passage will be followed by a set of questions.
There are, in general, eight question types you can expect to encounter on the multiple-choice section of the exam. I've taken my examples from the sample questions in the " Course and Exam Description ."
Magic eight-ball says there are eight types of multiple-choice questions!
Type 1: Reading Comprehension
These questions are focused on verifying that you understood what a certain part of the passage was saying on a concrete, literal level. You can identify these questions from phrases like "according to" "refers," etc. The best way to succeed on these questions is to go back and re-read the part of the passage referred to very carefully.
Type 2: Implication
These questions take reading comprehension one step further—they are primarily focused on what the author is implying without directly coming out and saying it. These questions will have a correct answer, though, based on evidence from the passage. Which interpretation offered in the answers does the passage most support? You can identify questions like these from words like "best supported," ‘"implies," "suggests," "inferred," and so on.
Type 3: Overall Passage and Author Questions
These questions ask about overall elements of the passage or the author, such as the author's attitude on the issue discussed, the purpose of the passage, the passage's overarching style, the audience for the passage, and so on.
You can identify these questions because they won't refer back to a specific moment in the text. For these questions, you'll need to think of the passage from a "bird's-eye view" and consider what all of the small details together are combining to say.
Type 4: Relationships Between Parts of the Text
Some questions will ask you to describe the relationship between two parts of the text, whether they are paragraphs or specific lines. You can identify these because they will usually explicitly ask about the relationship between two identified parts of the text, although sometimes they will instead ask about a relationship implicitly, by saying something like "compared to the rest of the passage."
Type 5: Interpretation of Imagery/Figurative Language
These questions will ask you about the deeper meaning or implication of figurative language or imagery that is used in the text. Essentially, why did the author choose to use this simile or this metaphor? What is s/he trying to accomplish?
You can generally identify questions like this because the question will specifically reference a moment of figurative language in the text. However, it might not be immediately apparent that the phrase being referenced is figurative, so you may need to go back and look at it in the passage to be sure of what kind of question you are facing.
Type 6: Purpose of Part of the Text
Still other questions will ask you to identify what purpose a particular part of the text serves in the author's larger argument. What is the author trying to accomplish with the particular moment in the text identified in the question?
You can identify these questions because they will generally explicitly ask what purpose a certain part of the text serves. You may also see words or phrases like "serves to" or "function."
Type 7: Rhetorical Strategy
These questions will ask you to identify a rhetorical strategy used by the author. They will often specifically use the phrase "rhetorical strategy," although sometimes you will be able to identify them instead through the answer choices, which offer different rhetorical strategies as possibilities.
Type 8: Composition
This is the newest question type, first seen in the 2019/2020 school year. For these questions, the student will need to act as though they are the writer and think through different choices writers need to make when writing or revising text.
These questions can involve changing the order of sentences or paragraphs, adding or omitting information to strengthen an argument or improve clarity, making changes to draw reader attention, and other composition-based choices.
Some very important stylish effects going on here.
The AP English Language and Composition Free Response
The free response section has a 15-minute reading period. After that time, you will have 120 minutes to write three essays that address three distinct tasks.
Because the first essay involves reading sources, it is suggested that you use the entire 15-minute reading period to read the sources and plan the first essay. However, you may want to glance at the other questions during the reading period so that ideas can percolate in the back of your mind as you work on the first essay.
Essay One: Synthesis
For this essay, you will be briefly oriented on an issue and then given anywhere from six to seven sources that provide various perspectives and information on the issue. You will then need to write an argumentative essay with support from the documents.
If this sounds a lot like a DBQ , as on the history AP exams, that's because it is! However, this essay is much more argumentative in nature—your goal is to persuade, not merely interpret the documents.
Example (documents not included, see 2022 free response questions ):
Essay Two: Rhetorical Analysis
In the second essay, you'll be presented with an excerpt from a nonfiction piece that advances an argument and asked to write an essay analyzing the rhetorical strategies used to construct the passage's argument. You will also be given some orienting information—where the passage was excerpted from, who wrote it, its approximate date, where it was published (if at all), and to whom it was directed.
Example (excerpt not included, see 2022 free response questions ):
Essay Three: Argument
In the third essay, you will be presented with an issue and asked to write a persuasive essay taking a position on the issue. You will need to support your position with evidence from your "reading, experience, and observations."
This doesn't look like a very well-constructed argument.
How The AP Language and Composition Exam Is Scored
The multiple-choice section of the exam is worth 45% of your score, and the free-response section is worth the other 55%. So each of the three free-response essays is worth about 18% of your score.
As on other APs, your raw score will be converted to a scaled score of 1-5. This exam has a relatively low 5 rate. Only 10% of test takers received a 5 in 2022 , although 56% of students received a score of 3 or higher.
In terms of how the raw score is obtained, the multiple-choice section is similar to other AP multiple-choice sections: you receive a point for every question you answer correctly, and there is no penalty for guessing.
The grading rubrics for the free-response questions were revamped in 2019. They are scored using analytic rubrics instead of holistic rubrics. For each free-response question, you will be given a score from 0-6. The rubrics assess three major areas:
#1: Thesis (0 to 1 points): Is there a thesis, and does it properly respond to the prompt?
#2: Evidence and Commentary (0 to 4 points): Does the essay include supporting evidence and analysis that is relevant, specific, well organized, and supports the thesis?
#3: Sophistication (0 to 1 points): Is the essay well-crafted and does it show a sufficiently nuanced understanding of the prompt?
Each scoring rubric broadly assesses these three factors. However, each task is also different in nature, so the rubrics do have some differences. I'll go over each rubric—and what it really means—for you here.
Synthesis Essay Rubrics
| 0 | For any of the following: | |
| 1 |
EVIDENCE AND COMMENTARY
| 0 | ||
| 1 | AND | |
| 2 | AND | |
| 3 | AND | |
| 4 | AND |
SOPHISTICATION
| 0 | ||
| 1 | Responses that earn this point may demonstrate sophistication of thought and/or a complex understanding of the rhetorical situation by doing any of the following: |
Time to synthesize this dough into some cookies.
Rhetorical Analysis Essay Rubrics
| 0 | ||
| 1 | AND | |
| 2 | AND | |
| 3 | AND AND | |
| 4 | AND AND |
Examine your texts closely!
Argumentative Essay Rubrics
The best kind of frenzy is a puppy frenzy!
AP English Language Prep Tips
Unlike its cousin, the AP English Literature and Composition exam, the AP Language and Composition exam (and course) have very little to do with fiction or poetry. So some students used to more traditional English classes may be somewhat at a loss as to what to do to prepare.
Luckily for you, I have a whole slate of preparation tips for you!
Read Nonfiction—In a Smart Way
A major thing you can do to prepare for the AP Lang and Comp exam is to read nonfiction— particularly nonfiction that argues a position , whether explicitly (like an op-ed) or implicitly (like many memoirs and personal essays). Read a variety of non-fiction genres and topics, and pay attention to the following:
- What is the author's argument?
- What evidence do they use to support their position?
- What rhetorical techniques and strategies do they use to build their argument?
- Are they persuasive? What counterarguments can you identify? Do they address them?
Thinking about these questions with all the reading you do will help you hone your rhetorical analysis skills.
Learn Rhetorical Terms and Strategies
Of course, if you're going to be analyzing the nonfiction works you read for their rhetorical techniques and strategies, you need to know what those are! You should learn a robust stable of rhetorical terms from your teacher, but here's my guide to the most important AP Language and Composition terms .
- We've compiled a list of 20 rhetorical devices you should know.
- A heroic individual from Riverside schools in Ohio uploaded this aggressively comprehensive list of rhetorical terms with examples. It's 27 pages long, and you definitely shouldn't expect to know all of these for the exam, but it's a useful resource for learning some new terms.
- Another great resource for learning about rhetorical analysis and how rhetorical devices are actually used is the YouTube Channel Teach Argument , which has videos rhetorically analyzing everything from Taylor Swift music videos to Super Bowl commercials. It's a fun way to think about rhetorical devices and get familiar with argumentative structures.
- Finally, a great book—which you might already use in your class—is " They Say, I Say. " This book provides an overview of rhetoric specifically for academic purposes, which will serve you well for AP preparation and beyond.
You also need to practice argumentative and persuasive writing. In particular, you should practice the writing styles that will be tested on the exam: synthesizing your own argument based on multiple outside sources, rhetorically analyzing another piece of writing in-depth, and creating a completely original argument based on your own evidence and experience.
You should be doing lots of writing assignments in your AP class to prepare, but thoughtful, additional writing will help. You don't necessarily need to turn all of the practice writing you do into polished pieces, either—just writing for yourself, while trying to address some of these tasks, will give you a low-pressure way to try out different rhetorical structures and argumentative moves, as well as practicing things like organization and developing your own writing style.
Not the most auspicious start to an argumentative essay.
Practice for the Exam
Finally, you'll need to practice specifically for the exam format. There are sample multiple-choice questions in the " AP Course and Exam Description ," and old free-response questions on the College Board website.
Unfortunately, the College Board hasn't officially released any complete exams from previous years for the AP English Language and Composition exam, but you might be able to find some that teachers have uploaded to school websites and so on by Googling "AP Language complete released exams." I also have a guide to AP Language and Composition practice tests .
Once you're prepped and ready to go, how can you do your best on the test?
AP Language and Composition Test Day Tips
Here are four key tips for test-day success.
You are one hundred percent success!
Interact With the Text
When you are reading passages, both on the multiple-choice section and for the first two free-response questions, interact with the text! Mark it up for things that seem important, devices you notice, the author's argument, and anything else that seems important to the rhetorical construction of the text. This will help you engage with the text and make it easier to answer questions or write an essay about the passage.
Think About Every Text's Overarching Purpose and Argument
Similarly, with every passage you read, consider the author's overarching purpose and argument. If you can confidently figure out what the author's primary assertion is, it will be easier to trace how all of the other aspects of the text play into the author's main point.
Plan Your Essays
The single most important thing you can do for yourself on the free-response section of the AP English Language exam is to spend a few minutes planning and outlining your essays before you start to write them.
Unlike on some other exams, where the content is the most important aspect of the essay, on the AP Language Exam, organization, a well-developed argument, and strong evidence are all critical to strong essay scores. An outline will help you with all of these things. You'll be able to make sure each part of your argument is logical, has sufficient evidence, and that your paragraphs are arranged in a way that is clear and flows well.
Anticipate and Address Counterarguments
Another thing you can do to give your free responses an extra boost is to identify counterarguments to your position and address them within your essay. This not only helps shore up your own position, but it's also a fairly sophisticated move in a timed essay that will win you kudos with AP graders.
Address counterarguments properly or they might get returned to sender!
Key Takeaways
The AP Language and Composition exam tests your rhetorical skills. The exam has two sections.
The first section is an hour-long, 45 question multiple-choice test based on the rhetorical techniques and composition choices.
The second section is a two-hour free-response section (with a 15-minute initial reading period) with three essay questions: one where you must synthesize given sources to make an original argument, one where you must rhetorically analyze a given passage, and one where you must create a wholly original argument about an issue with no outside sources given.
You'll receive one point for every correct answer on the multiple-choice section of the exam, which is worth 45% of your score. The free-response section is worth 55% of your score. For each free-response question, you'll get a score based on a rubric from 0-6. Your total raw score will be converted to a scaled score from 1-5.
Here are some test prep strategies for AP Lang:
#1 : Read nonfiction with an eye for rhetoric #2 : Learn rhetorical strategies and techniques #3 : Practice writing to deploy rhetorical skills #4 : Practice for the exam!
Here are some test-day success tips:
#1 : Interact with each passage you encounter! #2 : Consider every text's overarching purpose and argument. #3 : Keep track of time #4 : Plan your essays #5 : Identify and address counterarguments in your essays.
With all of this knowledge, you're ready to slay the AP English Language and Composition beast!
Noble knight, prepare to slay the AP dragon!
What's Next?
Want more AP Lang review? We have a complete collection of released AP Language practice tests , as well as a list of the AP Lang terms you need to know and a guide to the multiple choice section .
Taking the AP Literature exam? Check out our ultimate guide to the AP English Literature test and our list of AP Literature practice tests .
Taking other AP exams? See our Ultimate Guides to AP World History , AP US History , AP Chemistry , AP Biology , AP World History , and AP Human Geography .
Need more AP prep guidance? Check out how to study for AP exams and how to find AP practice tests .
These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.
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2024 AP English Language and Composition Exam Guide
11 min read • june 18, 2024
Your guide to the 2025 AP English Language and Composition exam
We know that studying for your AP exams can be stressful, but Fiveable has your back! We created a study plan to help you crush your AP English Language and Composition exam. This guide will continue to update with information about the 2025 exams, as well as helpful resources to help you do your best on test day. Unlock Cram Mode for access to our cram events—students who have successfully passed their AP exams will answer your questions and guide your last-minute studying LIVE! And don't miss out on unlimited access to our database of thousands of practice questions.
Format of the 2025 AP English Language and Composition exam
This year, all AP exams will cover all units and essay types. The 2025 AP English Language and Composition exam format will be:
- 45 questions in 1 hour
- 1 synthesis essay
- 1 rhetorical analysis essay
- 1 argument essay
Scoring Rubric for the 2025 AP Lang Essays
Synthesis Essay
- 1 point for a defensible thesis that responds to the prompt
- Max of 4 points for providing evidence from at least 3 sources that support the line of reasoning AND commentary that explains and analyzes the evidence
- Sophistication : - 1 point any of the following: - Creating a nuanced argument - Showing the limitations of the argument - Making effective rhetorical choices - Employing a style that is vivid and persuasive Rhetorical Analysis Essay
- 1 point for a defensible thesis that analyzes rhetorical choices
- Max of 4 points for providing specific evidence AND consistently explaining how the evidence relates to the line of reasoning AND showing how the rhetorical choices contribute to the author's message .
- Explaining the significance of the rhetorical choices ( rhetorical situation )
- Explaining the complexities of the passage and their purpose
- Employing a style that is vivid and persuasive Argument Essay
- 1 point for a defensible thesis
- Max of 4 points for providing specific evidence AND consistently explaining the relevance of that evidence.
- Crafting a nuanced argument by identifying complexities
- Explaining the limitations of the argument by placing it in a broader context
- Making rhetorical choices to improve the argument
- Employing a style that is vivid and persuasive Check out our study plan below to find resources and tools to prepare for your AP English Language and Composition exam.
When is the 2025 AP English Language and Composition Exam and How Do I Take It?
The exam will take place on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at 8:00 AM your local time.
How Should I Prepare for the AP Lang Exam?
- First, take stock of your progress in the course so far. What areas have you excelled and which sections need more focus? Download the AP English Language Cheatsheet PDF - a single sheet that covers everything you need to know at a high level. Take note of your strengths and weaknesses!
- Build your study plan to review every unit and question type, but focus most on the areas that need the most improvement and practice. We’ve put together this plan to help you study between now and May. This will cover all of the units and essay types to prepare you for your exam- - Practice essays are your best friends! The more essays you write, the more automatic the process will come, and the easier the AP exam will be!- - Try some of the past exam questions [object Object]
- We've put together the study plan found below to help you study between now and May. This will cover all of the units and essay types to prepare you for your exam. Pay special attention to the units that you need the most improvement in.
- Study, practice, and review for test day with other students during our live cram sessions via Cram Mode . Cram live streams will teach, review, and practice important topics from AP courses, college admission tests, and college admission topics. These streams are hosted by experienced students who know what you need to succeed.
Pre-Work: Set Up Your Study Environment
Before you begin studying, take some time to get organized.
🖥 Create a study space.
Make sure you have a designated place at home to study. Somewhere you can keep all of your materials, where you can focus on learning, and where you are comfortable. Spend some time prepping the space with everything you need and you can even let others in the family know that this is your study space.
📚 Organize your study materials.
Get your notebook, textbook, prep books, or whatever other physical materials you have. Also, create a space for you to keep track of review. Start a new section in your notebook to take notes or start a Google Doc to keep track of your notes. Get yourself set up!
📅 Plan designated times for studying.
The hardest part about studying from home is sticking to a routine. Decide on one hour every day that you can dedicate to studying. This can be any time of the day, whatever works best for you. Set a timer on your phone for that time and really try to stick to it. The routine will help you stay on track.
🏆 Decide on an accountability plan.
How will you hold yourself accountable to this study plan? You may or may not have a teacher or rules set up to help you stay on track, so you need to set some for yourself. First, set your goal. This could be studying for x number of hours or getting through a unit. Then, create a reward for yourself. If you reach your goal, then x. This will help stay focused!
2025 AP Lang Study Guide
🚧 unit 1 foundations of rhetoric: analysis of the rhetorical situation and claims., big takeaways:.
Unit 1 is an introductory unit that lays the foundations for the reading skills associated with how to understand and analyze complex texts. Skills here include identifying the ASPECTS of a text, analyzing the claim given and the evidence used to support that claim, and determining the function of the “chunks” in the argument. Because the content in this unit is very foundational, it is looped throughout the rest of the course instruction.
Definitely do this:
📚 Read these study guides:
Unit 1 Overview: Claims, Reasoning, and Evidence
1.1 Identifying the purpose and intended audience of a text
1.2 Examining how evidence supports a claim
1.3 Developing paragraphs as part of an effective argument 🎥 Watch these videos:
College Board’s Instructional Video: Overview of The Rhetorical Situation .- Fiveable’s How to Read Like an AP Student .- Rhetorical Analysis Thesis Statements - Rhetorical Analysis Body Paragraphs ✍️ Practice:
Use the Fiveable ASPECTS Guidesheet to help you break down a complex text. 🗺 Can you identify these rhetorical devices?
You won’t be asked to name drop on the exam, but it can be helpful to use devices when discussing strategies. Try this Quizlet to help prepare.
Unit 2 Foundations of Argument: Analysis of an author’s choices in appeals and evidence
Unit 2 is an introductory unit that builds onto the foundations of rhetorical ASPECTS and moves toward planning and writing your own arguments. This unit focuses on the relationships between subject, speaker, and message, including examination of the structure and purpose of the given argument. The unit then moves into the developing thesis statements and building your own arguments with a clear line of reasoning.
Unit 2 Overview: Organizing Information for a Specific Audience
2.1 Analyzing audience and its relationship to the purpose of an argument
2.2 Building an argument with relevant and strategic evidence
2.3 Developing thesis statements
2.4 Developing structure and integrating evidence to reflect a line of reasoning 🎥 Watch these videos:
College Board’s Instructional Video: Identify Rhetorical Situation in a Pre 20th Century Text .
Fiveable’s video on How to Find Rhetorical Devices 📰 Check out these articles:
Here’s a list of recommended rhetorical devices with definitions and examples! ✍️ Practice:
Use the Fiveable Rhetorical Precis Guidesheet to help you break down a complex text. 🗺 Can you identify these elements of practical argument?
You won’t be asked to name drop of the exam, but it can be helpful to use devices when discussing strategies. Try this Quizlet to help prepare.
👥 Unit 3 Confluence: Synthesis of multiple sources in argumentation
Unit 3 approaches multiple perspectives in argument through the lens of synthesis (that’s FRQ 1). In this study, you learn to identify effective and faulty reasoning while integrating a variety of evidence from credible resources that is properly cited in an original text.
Unit 3 Overview: Perspectives and How Arguments Relate
3.1 Interpreting character description and perspective
3.2 Identifying and avoiding flawed lines of reasoning
3.3 Introducing and integrating sources and evidence
3.4 Using sufficient evidence for an argument
3.5 Attributing and citing references
3.6 Developing parts of a text with cause-effect and narrative methods 🎥 Watch these videos:
Fiveable’s Introduction into Synthesis Essays and How to Begin Your Argument
College Board’s Instructional Video: Complexity in Argument . 🗺 Can you identify these elements of synthesis?
👀 Unit 4 Reasoning: Analysis of argument from introduction to conclusion
Unit 4 includes a greater depth of focus on the writing of effective arguments -- the line of reasoning created in the introduction, built with modes of discourse, and strengthened in the conclusion. An important note about these skills of argumentation is that they build toward all parts of every FRQ.
Unit 4 Overview: How writers develop arguments, intros, and conclusion
4.1 Developing and connecting thesis statements and lines of reasoning
4.2 Developing introductions and conclusions
4.3 Adjusting an argument to address new evidence 🎥 Watch these videos:
College Board’s Instructional Video: Understanding a Line of Reasoning .
Fiveable’s Effective Annotations . ✍️ Practice:
Try Fiveable’s Guide to LOR Body Paragraphs . 🗺 Can you identify the rhetorical modes?
You won’t be asked to name drop them on the exam, but it can be helpful to use devices when discussing strategies. Try this Quizlet to help prepare.
🧐 Unit 5 Commentary and Analysis: Analysis of complex argument and intentional rhetoric
In Unit 5, the skills look at the minutiae involved in argumentation: development of the line of reasoning that produces strong commentary and maintains the primary claim through all parts of the writing. To achieve these goals, this unit includes a focus on transitions , modifiers , and qualifications for argumentative perspective .
Unit 5 Overview
5.1 Maintaining ideas throughout an argument
5.2 Developing commentary throughout paragraphs
5.3 Using modifiers to qualify an argument and convey perspective
5.4 Using transitions 🎥 Watch these videos:
Fiveable’s video on How to Improve Analysis Part 1 and Part 2 - As well as how to Embed Quotes into Body Paragraphs - Rhetorical Analysis Body Paragraphs - Synthesis Essay Body Paragraphs - Argument Essay Body Paragraphs 📰 Check out these articles:
Tara Seale’s adaptation for Creating a Line of Reasoning . ✍️ Practice:
Try Fiveable’s Guide to LOR Body Paragraphs .
🏃♂️ Unit 6 Rhetorical Risks: Analysis of multiple perspectives, bias, and shifts with new evidence
In Unit 6, you will notice a direct link building on the ideas of Unit 3 as this instruction looks at position and perspectives while synthesizing information strategically to support a claim. For greater depth, this unit moves to modify a current argument to include new evidence.
Unit 6 Overview: Position, Perspective, and Bias
6.1 Incorporating multiple perspectives strategically into an argument
6.2 Recognizing and accounting for bias
6.3 Adjusting an argument to new evidence
6.4 Analyzing tone and shifts in tone 🎥 Watch these videos:
College Board’s Instructional Video: Creating a Nuanced Argument .
Fiveable’s video on Tracking an Author’s Argument
🚀 Unit 7 Complex Argumentation: Analysis of effective arguments, including concession and refutation
The skills of Unit 7 are about putting all units of study together to look at the complexity of a given argument and the effectiveness of the pieces built into that argument. Though many teachers will have addressed counterarguments, concessions, and refutations before reaching this unit, those skills are highly scrutinized in this segment of learning.
Unit 7 Overview: Successful and Unsuccessful Arguments
7.1 Examining complexities in issues
7.2 Considering how words, phrases, and clauses can modify and limit an argument
7.3 Examining how counterargument or alternative perspectives affect an argument
7.4 Exploring how sentence development affects an argument 🎥 Watch these videos:
Fiveable’s video on Arguments and Counterarguments
College Board’s Instructional Video: How Argument Demonstrates Understanding . ✍️ Practice:
Check your progress with Fiveable’s AP Language Skills Matrix .
📝 Unit 8 Style: Analysis of how style influences the audience movement
Unit 8 covers how to understand the influence style has on the audience , and the purpose behind each decision. By analyzing these various tactics, students are able to understand the author’s audience, and how to effectively persuade them. Style is an important part in connecting the rest of the course and understanding how the rhetorical choices and devices are used to accomplish a purpose.
Unit 8 Overview: Stylistic Choices
8.1 Choosing comparisons based on an audience
8.2 Considering how sentence development and word choice affect how the writer is perceived by an audience
8.3 Considering how all choices made in an argument affect the audience
8.4 Considering how style affects an argument 🎥 Watch these videos:
Fiveable’s Analysis of the Mindset of the Audience - College Board’s Instructional video: Analyzing and Understanding the Audience 📰 Check out these articles:
College Board’s explanation of Elements and Context for Style ✍️ Practice:
Review this quizlet on Elements of Style for more practice.
✏️ Unit 9 Craft: Creation of your own complex argument with synthesis and rhetoric
The final unit of AP Language and Composition covers how to effectively form your own arguments by acknowledging and understanding complexities to create a nuanced and sophisticated argument. It focuses on your ability to comprehend and connect multiple sources to create a well reasoned, and detailed argument as well as how to add in your own rhetorical devices and choices to make your writing more persuasive and effective.
Unit 9 Overview: Developing a Complex Argument
9.1 Strategically conceding, rebutting, or refuting information
9.2 Crafting an argument through stylistic choices like word choice and description 🎥 Watch these videos:
Fiveable’s video on Creating your own Synthesis Arguments
College Board’s video on Complexities within Arguments and How to Create a Nuanced Argument
Key Terms to Review ( 38 )
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AP English Literature and Composition Exam Questions
Free-response questions and scoring information.
Download free-response questions from this year's exam and past exams along with scoring guidelines, sample responses from exam takers, and scoring distributions.
If you are using assistive technology and need help accessing these PDFs in another format, contact Services for Students with Disabilities at 212-713-8333 or by email at [email protected] .
2024: Free-Response Questions
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2020 Free-Response Questions
Note: The table below features a selection of free-response questions and related scoring information from the 2020 exam. You can find all of the 2020 FRQs and corresponding scoring information in AP Classroom question bank .
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IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
Download free-response questions from this year's exam and past exams along with scoring guidelines, sample responses from exam takers, and scoring distributions. If you are using assistive technology and need help accessing these PDFs in another format, contact Services for Students with Disabilities at 212-713-8333 or by email at ssd@info ...
Typically, the AP Lang Argument Essay prompt asks you to reflect on a broad cultural, moral, or social issue that is open to debate. For evidence, you won't be asked to memorize and cite statistics or facts. Rather, you'll want to bring in real-world examples of: Historical events. Current-day events from the news.
Starting in the 2024-25 school year, AP English Language and Composition multiple-choice questions (MCQs) will have four answer choices instead of five. This change will take effect with the 2025 exam. All resources have been updated to reflect this change. ... Students write essays that respond to 3 free-response prompts from the following ...
For sake of space, we've included the text as an image you can click to read. After the prompt, we provide a sample high scoring essay and then explain why this AP Lang Rhetorical Analysis essay example works. Question 2. Suggested time—40 minutes. (This question counts as one-third of the total essay section score.)
The two synthesis essay questions below are examples of the question type that has been one of the three free-response questions on the AP English Language and Composition Exam as of the May 2007 exam. The synthesis question asks students to synthesize information from a variety of sources to inform their own discussion of a topic. Students are given a 15-minute reading period to accommodate ...
The AP Lang exam synthesis essay prompt indicates that you can use generic labels for the sources provided (e.g. "Source 1," "Source 2," "Source 3," etc.). The exam prompt will indicate which label corresponds with which source, so you'll need to make sure you pay attention and cite sources accurately. You can cite your sources in the sentence ...
AP English Language & Composition Exam Prompts (1981 to 2017) YEAR Question 1 (Synthesis) Question 2 (Rhetorical Analysis) Question 3 (Argumentative) 1981 "The Rattler"- analyze effect on reader - consider organization, point of view, language, detail. George Bernard Shaw letter - describe
2. Pick one side of the argument, but acknowledge the other side. When you write the essay, it's best if you pick one side of the debate and stick with it for the entire essay. All your evidence should be in support of that one side. However, in your introductory paragraph, as you introduce the debate, be sure to mention any merit the ...
The AP Language and Composition exam has two sections: a multiple-choice section with 45 questions, and a free-response section with three essay questions—one synthesis prompt, one analysis prompt, and one argument prompt. But not all AP Lang practice tests are like the real exam, and they aren't all of equal quality. In this guide, I'll ...
Step 5: Write your Essay. Use the remaining 30-35 minutes to write your essay. This should be relatively easy if you took the time to mark up the sources and have a detailed outline. Remember to add special consideration and emphasis to the commentary sections of the supporting arguments outlined in your thesis.
This question counts for one-third of the total essay section score.) The following passage is from Rights of Man, a book written by the pamphleteer Thomas Paine in 1791. Born in England, Paine was an intellectual, a revolutionary, and a supporter of American independence from England. Read the passage carefully.
AP ® English Language and Composition Sample Student Responses and Scoring Commentary Inside: Free Response Question 3 ... The argument prompt for this year's exam asked students to write an essay that argued their position on the value of striving for perfection. In their responses they were expected to respond to the prompt with a thesis that
AP English Language and Composition Writing Prompts. To develop their skills in AP Lang, students should regularly practice writing with AP Language writing prompts that encompass a wide range of rhetorical strategies and topics. These prompts can be incorporated into various classroom activities every day—five-minute bell-ringers, quick exit ...
Tips for Writing the AP Lang Rhetorical Essay. 1. Outline Your Essay Before Writing. One of the most important parts of the AP Lang essays is structuring your essay so that it makes sense to the reader. This is just as important as having good content. For this essay in particular, you'll want to read the passage first and write a brief ...
Understanding how these devices function can be essential in constructing a cohesive essay. Synthesis Essay AP Lang Examples - Sample Question . Below is a sample question from the AP Lang synthesis essay and a response to the prompt. This question was taken directly from a 2022 exam. However, the response to the question will be originally ...
1 - Essays earning a score of 1 meet the criteria for the score of 2 but are undeveloped, especially simplistic in their explanation and argument, weak in their control of language, or especially lacking in coherence and development. 0 - Indicates an off-topic response, one that merely repeats the prompt, an entirely crossed-out response, a ...
Suggested time—40 minutes. (This question counts as one-third of the total essay section score.) Many people spend long hours trying to achieve perfection in their personal or professional lives. Similarly, people often demand perfection from others, creating expectations that may be challenging to live up to.
Starting in the 2024-25 school year, AP English Language and Composition multiple-choice questions (MCQs) will have four answer choices instead of five. This change will take effect with the 2025 exam. All resources have been updated to reflect this change. Exam Duration.
AP® English Language and Composition prompts and texts. Click each header to view a list of official AP® English Language and Composition essay prompts. 💡Some prompts below include links to an external resource. To include this link as your essay prompt when creating a writing assignment in NoRedInk, be sure to copy and paste the website ...
The AP English Language and Composition Multiple-Choice. The multiple-choice section tests you on two main areas. The first is how well you can read and understand nonfiction passages for their use of rhetorical devices and tools. The second is how well you can "think like a writer" and make revisions to texts in composition questions.
AP® English Language and Composition 2022 Scoring Guidelines . Synthesis Essay 6 points . Since the early 2000s, the United States government and a number of corporations have sponsored initiatives to improve education in the STEM ... • Respond to the prompt with a thesis that analyzes the writer's rhetorical choices. • Select and use ...
Scoring Rubric for the 2025 AP Lang Essays. Synthesis Essay. Thesis: 1 point for a defensible thesis that responds to the prompt; Evidence and Commentary: Max of 4 points for providing evidence from at least 3 sources that support the line of reasoning AND commentary that explains and analyzes the evidence;
Download free-response questions from this year's exam and past exams along with scoring guidelines, sample responses from exam takers, and scoring distributions. If you are using assistive technology and need help accessing these PDFs in another format, contact Services for Students with Disabilities at 212-713-8333 or by email at ssd@info ...