Common Mistakes on Q3 of the AP Lang Exam | How to Write an Argument | Coach Hall Writes

Summary

In this insightful video, the presenter shares valuable advice for students tackling question three of the AP Language exam. Having scored numerous essays at a conference, the speaker emphasizes the importance of providing specific evidence to avoid low scores. The video offers a clear distinction between essays that make generalizations and those that provide concrete examples, illustrating how to improve writing through detailed evidence and consistent commentary. The presenter also highlights the significance of developing a strong concession and refutation to avoid appearing one-sided and to strengthen the essay's reasoning. With practical examples and a relatable analogy, the video guides students on how to craft a coherent line of reasoning and plan their essays effectively. The speaker reassures viewers that focusing on their areas of knowledge can lead to persuasive and well-written essays, regardless of the topic's complexity.

Takeaways

• 📝 The importance of using specific evidence in essays for the AP Language Exam cannot be overstated; it's crucial for achieving higher scores.
• 🔍 Students often fail to provide concrete evidence, leading to lower scores of 1 or 2, which is a common mistake to avoid.
• 📈 Writing styles that include claims without supporting facts or evidence are seen as generalizations and not persuasive.
• 🌐 Including specific examples, such as mentioning a particular country or state, can elevate an essay from a score of 2 to 3.
• 📚 The difference between a score of 3 and 4 lies in the consistency and quality of commentary alongside specific evidence.
• 🏀 A strong authorial voice and accurate facts can make an essay convincing, but insufficient commentary can prevent it from achieving the highest score.
• 💡 Students should choose topics they are knowledgeable about to demonstrate a strong voice and provide persuasive arguments.
• ✅ Setting up a developed concession and refutation is essential for a well-rounded argument and to avoid appearing narrow-minded.
• 🤔 Acknowledging the merits of the opposing viewpoint before refuting it is a key strategy for a stronger essay.
• 📊 Including evidence from current events, history, or personal experience adds credibility and specificity to the essay.
• 🔗 Maintaining a clear line of reasoning throughout the essay ensures logical coherence and helps the reader follow the writer's argument.
• 📋 Planning essays in advance can help establish a logical flow and line of reasoning, which is beneficial for the final score.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video?

The video focuses on common mistakes students make on question three of the AP Language exam and provides tips to improve their performance based on the 2020 rubric.

Why is specific evidence crucial in essays according to the new rubric?

Specific evidence is crucial because essays with only generalizations or insufficient specific evidence tend to score low, receiving either a 1 or a 2.

What is the difference between a generalization and specific evidence in an essay?

A generalization is a broad statement without supporting facts, which can come across as an opinion. Specific evidence, on the other hand, involves concrete examples or facts that prove a claim.

What are some examples of writing styles that warrant either a generalization or specific evidence?

Examples include essays that are more like rants without concrete evidence and essays that have a claim but lack detailed support or examples to substantiate the argument.

How can students improve their essays to score higher on the AP Language exam?

Students can improve by providing specific evidence, having a consistent line of reasoning, and ensuring their commentary is strong and connects back to the thesis.

What is the significance of commentary in an essay?

Commentary is important as it helps to connect the evidence to the thesis, explains the evidence, and supports the claims made in the essay. Inconsistent commentary can lead to a lower score.

Why is it important to have a developed concession and refutation in the essay?

A developed concession and refutation is important because it acknowledges the merit of the opposing viewpoint and strengthens the writer's argument by addressing potential counterarguments.

What is the key difference between an essay that scores a 3 out of 4 and a 4 out of 4 in terms of evidence and commentary?

Both scores have specific evidence and detail, but essays that score a 4 out of 4 have more consistent and effective commentary that strongly supports all claims in the essay.

What is the role of the authorial voice in an essay?

The authorial voice adds personality and conviction to the essay, making it more engaging and persuasive. A strong voice can make the essay stand out, even when discussing a topic that may not be inherently complex.

What is the advice given for choosing a topic for the essay?

The advice is to choose a topic that the student knows well and can discuss with confidence and a strong voice. It's not necessary to choose a highly sophisticated topic; what matters is the evidence and commentary provided.

What is the 'line of reasoning' and why is it important in an essay?

A line of reasoning is a logical and coherent sequence of arguments that supports the essay's thesis. It is important because it ensures that the essay is clear, logical, and easy for the reader to follow.

How can students ensure they have a clear line of reasoning in their essays?

Students can ensure a clear line of reasoning by planning their essays in advance, connecting all the dots for the reader, and ensuring that the examples chosen are clearly related and support the overall argument.