Introduction to AP Literature Exam Preparation

  • Welcome message from Susan Barber, emphasizing community among students and teachers.
  • Acknowledgment of the excitement and nervousness as the AP exam approaches.

Community and Connections

  • Discussion about receiving emails from students across North America and the global literary community.
  • Importance of community during difficult times, highlighting shared love for literature.
  • Mention of direct communication with educators and students worldwide.

Essay Writing Focus

  • Overview of the essay prompt regarding the complex relationship in "The Mayor of Casterbridge" by Thomas Hardy.
  • Presentation of a student sample introduction:
    • Reference to the conflict between Michael Henchard and his daughter Elizabeth Jane.
    • Examination of Henchard's hypocritical admonishments toward his daughter despite his own flaws.
    • The introduction suggests an emotional estrangement despite physical reunion.

Characteristics of a Strong Introduction

  • The use of complex language demonstrates relationship dynamics.
  • It is acceptable to vary intro length based on writing style.
  • The introduction must present a thesis that answers the prompt and offers a clear line of reasoning for the body of the essay.

Developing Body Paragraphs

  • Key purpose of commentary: explain how evidence supports claims and their relation to the thesis.
  • Importance of using sufficient and specific evidence to back up claims.
  • The need to recognize instances in the body that require further explanation and expansion.

Elements of an Effective Argument

  • Claims: Present the main argument.
  • Evidence: Includes specific text-based support.
  • Commentary: Explains the connection between claims, evidence, and the thesis.

Effective Commentary Techniques

  • Commentary should clarify links between the claims and thesis.
  • Extend analysis to encompass broader themes and human conditions within literature.
  • Discuss how character progression is demonstrated through evidence.

Commentary Examples

  • Emphasis on clarity and thoroughness to ensure that the reader can follow the argument.
  • Mention of using color-coding to differentiate claims, evidence, and commentary for visualization of argument structure.

Encouragement for Writers

  • Encourage students to provide rich, nuanced analysis rather than general comments.
  • Commentary should not be limited to the end of a paragraph; it can be embedded throughout.

Homework Assignment

  • Students to reflect on the examples discussed and develop their body paragraphs, specifically their commentary.
  • Assignment includes rewriting two body paragraphs for depth and clarity.

Conclusion

  • Importance of articulating thoughts clearly and demonstrating connections back to the thesis.
  • Reminder of upcoming discussions focused on the sophistication point in writing and enhancing analytical skills in essays.