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UC SCOUT AP LIT VIDEO 1.2: AP Exam Question 2 - Prose
AP Literature and Composition Exam - Question Two: Prose Analysis
Overview of Question Two
Involves a prose passage that must be read, analyzed, and written about.
Prose is defined as writing that is not in verse, such as novels, newspapers, and letters.
Familiarize yourself with recent prose passages selected by the College Board, often from the 18th-19th century or contemporary pieces.
Notably, if Question One (poetry) features modern poetry, Question Two may feature older works, and vice versa.
Example Passage Analysis
Passage Selection: 1913 letter from George Bernard Shaw about his mother's cremation (1981 AP Lit exam selection).
Initial Reflection: Students encouraged to jot down expectations about the passage before reading.
Key Excerpt Details:
Shaw describes the cremation process in vivid imagery, challenge initial expectations.
Notable phrases: "violet coffin," "cool, clean, sunny," "dainty little heap of ashes," and stark contrasts such as "streaming ribbons of garnet coloured lovely flame."
Analyzing the Tone
Key Concept: Tone defined as the author’s attitude toward the subject, not the tone of voice.
Expected tone for such a passage may involve feelings of sadness, melancholy, or discomfort. Shaw, however, portrays a celebratory and appreciative tone toward his mother’s cremation.
Highlighted words and phrases should reveal this contrasting tone, emphasizing warmth and joy rather than sadness or tragedy.
Notably, the mention of morticians as "cooks" implies a positive, almost celebratory feeling regarding the cremation process.
Techniques for Analysis
Diction: Focus on Shaw’s choice of words and phrases which significantly affects tone.
E.g., words like "violet coffin" and "beautiful fire" contribute to a lighter, more joyful interpretation.
Selection of Detail: Consider overall context and nuances in the passage.
Shaw’s description of his mother’s spirit and humor suggests a loving, respectful attitude toward her passing.
Literary Devices: Emphasize specific literary techniques mentioned in the prompt, like apostrophe.
Apostrophe Example: Shaw’s reference to "O grave" creates a connection with the concept of death.
Syntax: Observe unique arrangements of words that affect meaning.
Final Writing Tips
Thesis Statement: Include a strong thesis that clearly states the analyzed tone.
Time Management: Allocate approximately 40 minutes for each essay and avoid excessive length.
Review Previous Exams: Practice with other past prompts and review scored student samples for better understanding of grading criteria.
Confidence Building: Reading scored samples enhances understanding and confidence, making it easier to approach the AP Lit Exam.
UC SCOUT AP LIT VIDEO 1.2: AP Exam Question 2 - Prose
AP Literature and Composition Exam - Question Two: Prose Analysis
Overview of Question Two
Involves a prose passage that must be read, analyzed, and written about.
Prose is defined as writing that is not in verse, such as novels, newspapers, and letters.
Familiarize yourself with recent prose passages selected by the College Board, often from the 18th-19th century or contemporary pieces.
Notably, if Question One (poetry) features modern poetry, Question Two may feature older works, and vice versa.
Example Passage Analysis
Passage Selection: 1913 letter from George Bernard Shaw about his mother's cremation (1981 AP Lit exam selection).
Initial Reflection: Students encouraged to jot down expectations about the passage before reading.
Key Excerpt Details:
Shaw describes the cremation process in vivid imagery, challenge initial expectations.
Notable phrases: "violet coffin," "cool, clean, sunny," "dainty little heap of ashes," and stark contrasts such as "streaming ribbons of garnet coloured lovely flame."
Analyzing the Tone
Key Concept: Tone defined as the author’s attitude toward the subject, not the tone of voice.
Expected tone for such a passage may involve feelings of sadness, melancholy, or discomfort. Shaw, however, portrays a celebratory and appreciative tone toward his mother’s cremation.
Highlighted words and phrases should reveal this contrasting tone, emphasizing warmth and joy rather than sadness or tragedy.
Notably, the mention of morticians as "cooks" implies a positive, almost celebratory feeling regarding the cremation process.
Techniques for Analysis
Diction: Focus on Shaw’s choice of words and phrases which significantly affects tone.
E.g., words like "violet coffin" and "beautiful fire" contribute to a lighter, more joyful interpretation.
Selection of Detail: Consider overall context and nuances in the passage.
Shaw’s description of his mother’s spirit and humor suggests a loving, respectful attitude toward her passing.
Literary Devices: Emphasize specific literary techniques mentioned in the prompt, like apostrophe.
Apostrophe Example: Shaw’s reference to "O grave" creates a connection with the concept of death.
Syntax: Observe unique arrangements of words that affect meaning.
Final Writing Tips
Thesis Statement: Include a strong thesis that clearly states the analyzed tone.
Time Management: Allocate approximately 40 minutes for each essay and avoid excessive length.
Review Previous Exams: Practice with other past prompts and review scored student samples for better understanding of grading criteria.
Confidence Building: Reading scored samples enhances understanding and confidence, making it easier to approach the AP Lit Exam.