8 | FRQ (Question 3: Literary Argument) | Practice Sessions | AP English Literature and Composition

Summary

In this AP Daily practice session, Mr. Carlos Escobar guides students through analyzing characters' responses to hierarchical structures in literature. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the prompt, connecting character actions to broader themes, and developing a clear thesis. Through examples like *The Awakening*, he illustrates how characters can accept, challenge, or reject societal norms, shaping the narrative's meaning. Escobar encourages students to practice writing essays based on texts they know well, highlighting that careful attention to the prompt and structured arguments can lead to success in the AP exam.

Takeaways

• 😀 Mr. Carlos Escobar introduces the topic of literary argument, focusing on characters' responses to hierarchical structures.
• 📚 The prompt emphasizes the importance of selecting a work of fiction that features a character reacting to a hierarchy, which can be social, economic, political, or familial.
• 🔍 Students are reminded not to summarize the plot but to analyze the character's response and its significance in understanding the work as a whole.
• ⚖️ A hierarchical structure is compared to a ladder system where different levels exist, influencing characters' actions and decisions.
• 📝 The analysis must connect the character's response to the overarching theme or conflict in the work, illuminating the author's intent.
• 🤔 Different verbs to describe characters' responses to hierarchy include abide, challenge, confront, question, and reject.
• 🗂️ Students should create a list of works they are familiar with to assist in answering the prompt effectively.
• 💡 The importance of crafting a strong thesis statement that reflects the character's response and connects to the overall meaning of the work is highlighted.
• 🔗 An example is provided with Edna from 'The Awakening', showcasing her rejection of familial and social hierarchies as a means to seek freedom.
• 🏆 Practice and attention to the prompt are crucial for success in writing literary argument essays.

Q & A

What is the main topic discussed in the video?

The video discusses the literary argument FAQ, focusing specifically on characters' responses to hierarchical structures in literature.

Who is the presenter of the video, and where is he located?

The presenter is Mr. Carlos Escobar, and he is located in Miami, Florida.

What components are included in the prompts provided for writing essays?

The prompts consist of the main prompt itself, bulleted items that link the essay to the scoring rubric, and a list of works that may be referenced.

What does the term 'hierarchical structure' refer to in the context of the prompt?

A hierarchical structure refers to a system where individuals or groups are ranked one above the other based on social, economic, political, or familial status.

What is the importance of a character's response to hierarchy in literature?

A character's response to hierarchy is significant as it contributes to the overall interpretation of the work, reflecting central conflicts or themes.

What actions might a character take in response to a hierarchy?

A character might abide by, celebrate, challenge, confront, question, or outright reject a hierarchical structure.

How should students connect a character's response to hierarchy in their essays?

Students should connect the character's response to a central conflict or theme in the work, analyzing how this reaction informs the interpretation of the text.

What example texts does Mr. Escobar mention for analysis?

Mr. Escobar mentions 'Hamlet,' 'The Awakening,' 'Linden Hills,' 'Crime and Punishment,' and 'The Road' as potential texts for analysis.

What does Mr. Escobar suggest students do if they feel uncertain about the works they have read?

He encourages students to think of the works they discussed with their teachers or friends and to focus on those they know best.

What are the key components of a well-written essay according to the video?

Key components include having a clear thesis, a line of reasoning, appropriate evidence and commentary, and adhering to proper grammar and punctuation.