AP ENGLISH V & S 2

Rule commas

Add an “s” to form the possessive singular of nouns. Always add s to singular nouns regardless of the final consonant; includes names already ending in s.

Exceptions for commas

Ancient or biblical names ending in -es or -is, they only need an apostrophe. Also, possessive pronouns like yours, theirs, hers, its, etc. do not use apostrophes.

series rule

When there is a series of three or more terms with a single conjunction, you need to use a comma after each term but the last.

Series commas details and exceptions

Put comma before coordinating conjunction in a list of three or more. But for business names or company titles, do not use the comma if the brand name leaves it out.

Diction

A writers or speakers choice of words

Syntax

The arrangement of words and phrases to create sentences

Telegraphic sentence

Shorter than 5 words

Loose sentence

the main idea/ subject followed by extra details

Periodic sentence

When the main idea comes at the end

Balanced sentence

The phrases or clauses balance watch other by virtue of their likeness of structure, meaning, or length

Natural order (sentence inversion)

The subject comes before the verb/ predicate

Parallel structure (parallelism)

Grammatical or structural similarity between sentences of parts of a sentence. It involves a mirroring of arrangement of words, phrases, sentences, or paragraphs. Exp: if ends in ing, it has to be I went swimming, climbing, and fishing. Can’t be I went for a swim, climbing, and I went fishing.

Elevated diction

Formal, lofty, or ornate speech of writing

informal diction

Plain language of everyday use, may include idioms, slang, contractions, and a more personal voice

Formal diction

Has a dignified, impersonal, and elevated use of language

Jargon

Words specific to a group of people

Euphemism

An indirect, less offensive way of saying something that is considered unpleasant (softens the blow)

dyshpemism

A derogatory or unpleasant term used instead of a pleasant or neutral one (deliberately exaggerates or offends or insults)

Colloquial

Characteristics of informal spoken language or conversation

Euphonious

Smooth and musically pleasant to the ear

Cacophonous

Harsh sounding

Denotation

The dictionary definition of a word

Connotation

All the meanings, associations, or emotions that a word suggests.

Inverted order (sentence inversion)

Constructing a sentence so that the verb/predicate comes before the subject.