Course Objectives

The design for the AP English Language and Composition course is based on the AP English Course description published by the College Board. Students will be introduced to several forms of writing (e.g. narrative, expository, analytical, and argumentative essays). The chosen literature will serve as a basis for the specific writing styles. Student writing will undergo several revisions which will be edited by teacher and peers. 

Grading System:

Essays 30%:

Students will submit a rough draft which will be self-edited and peer-edited before typed final copy is submitted. All drafts will be submitted with the final copy and kept in a portfolio. The portfolio will count toward the final grade for the quarter. 

Tests 25%:

Tests will be presented in a similar format to the AP English Language and Composition exam. New material will be given for students to analyze. Mulitple-choice will be based on literary and rhetorical devices. 

Quizzes 25%:

Quizzes are used to verify basic understanding of the text. Vocabulary and grammar quizzes will be administered during every unit covered. 

Daily 20%:

Daily tasks consist of journal entries as well as vocabulary and grammar exercises. Planning for essays such as outlines and preliminary research and working bibliography will be included. Students will also review for the SAT. 

Quarter One

What is the Philosophy of Critical Reading?

Students are given the opportunity to respond to a variety of genres which will allow them to recognize their style of writing and help them improve. Students will be aware of the criteria for each piece of writing they are responsible for. They will be given rubrics to follow before and during the writing process. Using How to Read Literature Like a Professor will enable the students to become aware of specific author styles. 

Quarter Two

How does the past have an impact on the present and the future in the United States?

Practice AP Essay Questions - Sparknotes AP Practice Exams and Strategy Book: English Language and Literature

Students will analyze documents from the past and decide how these documents have served as a basis throughout literature. There will also be close evaluation as to how an author’s personal experiences serve as a basis for writing.

Quarter Three

What is the Connection Between Nonfiction and Fiction?

Understanding transitions from fiction to nonfiction. 

AP Practice Essay Questions: Rhetorical analysis and open-ended questions.

Quarter Four

Story or Structure? What Makes Great Literature?

Understanding elements of plot and structure of literature. 

Practice AP Essay Questions until the AP English Language and Composition Exam.

Nancy Bisogno

nbisogno@stepinac.org

Chairperson, English Department