ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY 2024 I AP Spanish Language and Culture Exam

Summary

In this video, Professor Carlos Salazar provides a simple guide for writing an argumentative essay for the AP Spanish exam. He emphasizes the importance of clear structure: an introduction, three body paragraphs with one reason each, and a conclusion. The essay must use evidence from three sources: an article, a graphic, and an audio. Professor Salazar reassures students that the process is straightforward, encouraging them to keep their arguments simple and supported by the sources. With effective time management and proper use of evidence, students can confidently tackle the essay, making the task feel easy and approachable.

Takeaways

• 😀 The goal is to write a clear and simple argumentative essay for the AP Spanish exam.
• 😀 The essay structure consists of an introduction, three body paragraphs (one for each reason), and a conclusion.
• 😀 Each argument should be supported by evidence from three sources: a reading article, a graphic (table or chart), and an audio clip.
• 😀 It is essential to use the provided evidence to back up your argument; without evidence, the argument lacks credibility.
• 😀 A simple strategy for the essay: state your thesis, present three reasons, and use evidence to support each reason.
• 😀 Use phrases like 'according to the article', 'according to the audio', or 'according to the graphic' to cite sources clearly.
• 😀 Each body paragraph should focus on one reason and provide clear evidence supporting that reason.
• 😀 The introduction should include your thesis statement, clearly explaining your perspective on the topic.
• 😀 The conclusion should restate your thesis and summarize the key points made in the body paragraphs.
• 😀 Managing time effectively is important: 15 minutes for reviewing the materials and 40 minutes to write the essay.
• 😀 Keep it simple! Focus on structure and clear arguments, and avoid overcomplicating the essay process.

Q & A

What is the main goal of the argumentative essay as explained by Professor Salazar?

The main goal of the argumentative essay is to present an argument in a clear and simple manner, using evidence from three sources (an article, a graphic, and an audio) to support the argument.

How many sources do students need to use in their argumentative essay?

Students need to use three sources: an article, a graphic or chart, and an audio source.

What is the recommended essay structure mentioned in the video?

The recommended essay structure includes an introduction with a thesis statement, three body paragraphs each presenting one reason supported by evidence, and a conclusion that restates the thesis and summarizes the main points.

What role does evidence play in the essay?

Evidence plays a crucial role in backing up the student's argument. Without solid evidence from the sources, the argument will lack credibility. Each reason in the body paragraphs must be supported by evidence from the article, graphic, or audio.

How should students structure their introduction?

The introduction should start with a thesis statement that clearly answers the question or presents the main argument. The introduction should also briefly explain why the student feels the way they do about the topic.

What should each body paragraph focus on?

Each body paragraph should focus on one reason that supports the thesis statement. The reason should be explained and then backed up with evidence from one of the three sources.

How much time do students have to write the essay, and how should they manage it?

Students have 55 minutes in total. They should spend the first 15 minutes reviewing the materials (article, graphic, and audio), and the remaining 40 minutes writing the essay.

What is the importance of keeping the essay simple?

Keeping the essay simple helps ensure clarity and avoids unnecessary confusion. Professor Salazar emphasizes that students should not overcomplicate the writing process and should focus on clear, straightforward arguments supported by evidence.

How should students incorporate evidence into their essay?

Students should refer to the sources using simple phrases like 'according to the article' or 'as the audio states' to introduce evidence. The evidence should be directly tied to the reason in the body paragraph and should not require long explanations.

What is the final step in completing the essay?

The final step is to write the conclusion, which should summarize the thesis and the key points discussed in the body paragraphs, reinforcing the argument made throughout the essay.