AP lang exam main concepts review

Cram session for AP lang exam

Rhetorical Analysis Essay

Analyze how the author builds their argument

Key Phrases in a rhetorical analysis essay

• The author appeals to…

• - Through the use of [strategy], the author…

• - This evokes a sense of…

• - This strengthens the author's argument by…

Argumentative Essay

Make your own argument without sources

Key phrases for an argumentative essay

• For example…

• - This demonstrates that…

• - Critics may argue…,

• however…

• - Therefore, it is clear that…

What is a synthesis essay?

A synthesis essay requires you to form your own argument using 3 or more sources that are in conversation with each other.

What should you include in the introduction of a synthesis essay?

You should summarize the issue and present your thesis.

What is the purpose of body paragraphs in a synthesis essay?

Body paragraphs should use sources to support your point.

How should you integrate sources in a synthesis essay?

Blend in quotes and paraphrasing with your analysis.

What should you emphasize in the conclusion of a synthesis essay?

Emphasize your position.

Key phrases for a synthesis essay

• According to Source B…

• - This source supports the idea that…-

• While Source A claims…,

• Source D refutes this by…

• The synthesis of these sources suggests that…

In his 1961 Inaugural Address, President John F. Kennedy inspires unity and a sense of global responsibility during a time of Cold War tension. Through the use of parallelism, appeals to ethos and pathos, and inclusive diction, Kennedy persuades both Americans and international audiences to commit to a shared pursuit of peace, freedom, and progress.

sample rhetorical analysis thesis

In a culture that often celebrates instant achievement and flawless success, failure is commonly viewed as something to avoid at all costs. Yet history and experience consistently prove that setbacks are not just inevitable—they're essential. From scientific discoveries born out of repeated trials to personal growth forged in difficult moments, failure often acts as a powerful teacher. Failure is necessary for success because it fosters resilience and provides critical learning opportunities that pave the way for long-term achievement.

sample argumentative essay thesis

In recent years, traditional letter grading has come under fire from educators, students, and psychologists who argue that it does more harm than good. Opponents of the A-F scale claim it heightens student stress, discourages creativity, and provides an incomplete picture of learning. Others defend grades as a clear, objective way to measure student achievement and hold both learners and institutions accountable. While grades are imperfect, they should not be eliminated entirely; instead, schools should reform grading systems to prioritize meaningful feedback, reduce student stress, and encourage intrinsic motivation, while still maintaining structure and standards.

sample synthesis essay thesis

metaphor

A comparison without using like or as

Similie

A comparison using "like" or "as"

analogy

A comparison of two different things that are similar in some way

Irony/Sarcasm

Often highlights absurdity

Repetition

Emphasizes a key point

Hyperbole

Exaggeration for effect

Imagery

Vivid sensory description (➤ Purpose: Engages the reader, makes abstract ideas concrete, appeals to pathos.)

Personification

Giving human traits to non-humans

Allusion

Reference to history, literature, or culture "Like a modern-day David facing Goliath…"

• (Adds depth, appeals to ethos, connects the speaker's ideas to broader context.)

Parallelism

Repetition of sentence structure

• "We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds…"

Juxtaposition

Placing two ideas side-by-side for contrast

Anaphora

Repetition at the beginning of clause

"I have a dream… I have a dream…"

Antithesis

Contrasting ideas in balanced phrases "Ask not what your country can do for you…"

What is diction in writing?

Word choice

What types of words should you look for in diction?

Emotionally charged, formal, informal, or specific types of words

Syntax (sentence structure)

Look at sentence length, punctuation, repetition, or inversion.

➤ Purpose: Emphasizes key ideas, mirrors thought processes, controls pacing or tone.

What is tone in writing?

The author's attitude (serious, sarcastic, hopeful, bitter, etc.)

What is the purpose of tone in writing?

Shapes the audience's emotional response and signals the writer's stance.

rhetorical Questions

Asking questions with implied answers.

➤ Purpose: Engages audience, provokes thought, emphasizes a TRUTH