2 | MCQ (Writing Questions) | Practice Sessions | AP English Language and Composition

Summary

In this instructional video, Emily Valaitis, an AP English Language and Composition teacher, provides essential strategies for tackling composition-style multiple-choice questions on the AP exam. She breaks down key techniques for analyzing passages, identifying the thesis, and understanding how to approach complex questions. With practical examples, she teaches students how to dissect questions carefully, analyze answer options methodically, and ensure they align with the passage's thesis and emotional appeal. Valaitis emphasizes critical thinking, methodical reading, and attention to detail as crucial for success on the exam.

Takeaways

• 😀 Focus on reading the passage methodically while paying special attention to the questions themselves in composition-style multiple-choice questions.
• 😀 Break down the questions carefully, identifying every part of the question to understand what is being asked.
• 😀 Make sure to underline the thesis of the passage and recognize how the paragraphs are organized around it.
• 😀 Use the 'check' and 'X' system to evaluate each option carefully, marking parts that do or do not answer the question.
• 😀 Pay attention to conjunctions like 'and' or 'or' in the questions, as they guide how to approach the options.
• 😀 Summarize each paragraph with key words in the margin to help track the flow and structure of the argument.
• 😀 Be mindful of shifts in tone or argument between sections of the passage to better understand its structure.
• 😀 When evaluating descriptive language, ensure it appeals to the audience’s emotions and relates to their experiences.
• 😀 For questions regarding engagement or orientation, focus on sentences that hook the audience and introduce the topic effectively.
• 😀 The composition-style questions are more nuanced and require careful thought compared to reading questions, so do not rush through them.

Q & A

What is the focus of the video Emily Valaitis created for AP English Language and Composition exam preparation?

The focus of the video is to help students practice and prepare for the composition-style multiple-choice questions they will encounter on the AP English Language and Composition exam.

What are the two main parts of the multiple-choice test discussed in the video?

The two main parts of the multiple-choice test are the reading and writing questions, with a focus on the writing questions in this video.

How does Emily recommend approaching the reading of the passage for composition-style questions?

Emily recommends reading the passage methodically, summarizing each paragraph with one to three key words, underlining the thesis, and paying attention to shifts in tone or argument organization.

Why is it important to focus on the thesis while reading the passage?

The thesis is important because it previews the writer's main argument, and recognizing it helps understand the passage's structure and the focus of the argument throughout the passage.

What should you do when you encounter complex composition-style questions?

You should break down the question carefully, identifying all parts and ensuring you understand what each part is asking before moving on to the answer choices.

How does Emily suggest analyzing answer choices for composition-style questions?

Emily suggests reading each answer choice carefully, marking words that do or do not address each part of the question. She also recommends using a check and X system to evaluate whether each option fits the criteria of the question.

What is the significance of 'ands' and 'ors' in composition-style questions?

'And' and 'or' can indicate multiple requirements in a question, helping you focus on specific aspects when evaluating answer choices.

How should you summarize each paragraph when approaching composition-style questions?

You should summarize each paragraph with one to three key words in the margin to capture the main idea and identify shifts in the passage’s argument or tone.

Why does Emily recommend marking words that do or do not answer each part of the question?

Marking words helps ensure that every word in the answer choice is evaluated for how well it contributes to answering all parts of the question. This prevents misinterpretation or overlooking important details.

What strategy does Emily suggest for answering questions that are about emotional appeal and descriptive details?

For such questions, Emily suggests focusing on answer choices that use emotive language and vivid descriptions that connect to the audience’s experiences, ensuring that the options meet all the criteria in the question.