AP English Lang Readers 2019

Summary

This video features a collection of insightful advice from high school and university teachers on how to approach various AP exam questions. Educators emphasize key strategies for success, such as the importance of addressing both the 'how' and 'why' in arguments, using sources purposefully, and avoiding generic responses. Teachers also stress the value of authentic, personal writing and careful reading of prompts. Their advice spans multiple subjects, offering practical tips on writing, analysis, and argumentation, all aimed at helping students craft thoughtful, well-supported essays to excel on the exam.

Takeaways

• 😀 Understand the task and context clearly, especially for argument essays, as the prompt will guide you on how to approach it.
• 😀 Always provide both 'how' and 'why' in your argument, not just one or the other, to strengthen your reasoning and clarity.
• 😀 Use sources effectively in your essays, not just by citing them but by engaging with them and using them to build your argument.
• 😀 Personalize your essay by infusing your own voice and perspective, making it unique and engaging for the reader.
• 😀 For rhetorical analysis, focus on the big picture of the speaker's choices and their purpose, rather than getting bogged down in small details.
• 😀 Counterarguments can enhance your argument, as addressing opposing views demonstrates sophistication and rhetorical awareness.
• 😀 Avoid using irrelevant or inappropriate examples in your arguments; choose age-appropriate and contextually fitting references.
• 😀 Think of the sources in a synthesis question as part of a conversation, and aim to engage with the ideas presented rather than repeating them.
• 😀 In rhetorical analysis, identify patterns in the text to find more meaningful observations and insights about the rhetorical strategies used.
• 😀 Be mindful of your audience—if your readers are knowledgeable about the subject, focus on analysis rather than summarizing well-known content.

Q & A

What is the key advice for answering argument questions effectively?

Several teachers emphasize the importance of answering both the 'how' and the 'why' in argument-based essay questions. It's crucial to include both elements to develop a well-rounded and compelling argument.

How should students approach using sources in their essays?

Teachers suggest that students should not merely paraphrase sources. Instead, they should use sources with purpose, integrating them into the argument and engaging with them critically to strengthen their points.

What is the advice regarding the use of counterarguments?

Including counterarguments is a powerful strategy. By discussing the flaws in opposing views, students can demonstrate a deeper understanding of the rhetorical context and audience, making their arguments more sophisticated.

What does it mean to bring 'yourself' into the essay?

Infusing your personal voice into the essay helps make it stand out. Teachers suggest that essays are more engaging and memorable when students add unique insights or perspectives that reflect their personality.

What is the best strategy for tackling rhetorical analysis essays?

In rhetorical analysis, it's recommended to focus on the big picture, analyzing the most significant choices made by the speaker to achieve their purpose. Avoid getting bogged down in minor details.

What advice is given regarding the use of patterns in rhetorical analysis?

Instead of simply listing rhetorical devices, students should look for recurring patterns in the passage. Identifying patterns can help organize their analysis and deepen their understanding of the text.

How should students deal with the task of writing about overrated topics or unfamiliar subjects?

Teachers caution against using examples that are too familiar or inappropriate for the task, such as using children's stories for more mature topics. It’s important to choose examples that are age-appropriate and relevant to the essay prompt.

Why is it important to read and annotate the prompt carefully before writing?

Reading and annotating the prompt is essential because it helps students understand the specific requirements and context of the question. Annotating can guide the planning and structure of the essay.

What is the significance of focusing on the development of ideas rather than the number of sources used?

Teachers emphasize that it's more important to develop ideas fully than to use as many sources as possible. Using fewer sources but exploring them deeply is more effective than simply listing sources without much analysis.

How can students ensure that they address the specific question being asked?

To answer the question effectively, students should focus on understanding the exact task presented by the prompt. It's important to avoid generic answers and ensure that each point in the essay relates directly to the question.