AP Language and Composition Argument Essay Preparation

Overview of the AP Language and Composition Argument Essay

• Task: Develop an evidence-based argument responding to a specific prompt given by the College Board.
• Sources for Knowledge: Draw from various areas such as news, literature, music, academic subjects, etc.

Key Areas of the Rubric

1. Defensible Thesis:

   • Must explicitly state a position on the prompt topic.
   • Example Thesis: "Individuals who explore the unknown often use their discoveries to design scientific innovations, new artistic genres, and public policy solutions."

2. Specific Evidence:

   • Incorporate facts, statistics, and examples that support claims.
   • Must analyze how evidence reinforces the argument.

3. Sophistication of Thought:

   • Explore nuances of the argument.
   • Show implications, limitations, and potential counterarguments.
   • Maintain a vivid and persuasive writing style with effective rhetorical choices.

Structure of the Essay

• Introduction:

  • Briefly introduce the topic in 2-3 sentences.
  • Present thesis statement clearly.
  • Optional: Reference the prompt's quote as part of the introduction.

• Body Paragraphs: (following the three points of the thesis)

  1. Topic Sentence - State the main idea of the paragraph.
  2. Claim - What you argue in this paragraph.
  3. Evidence - Support the claim with specific information or examples.
  4. Commentary - Analyze how the evidence relates to the thesis.
  5. Transition - Move to the next paragraph smoothly.

• Conclusion:

  • Mirror the introduction in brevity (2-3 sentences).
  • Connect back to the prompt and overarching themes without simply reiterating points already made.

Sample Body Paragraph Structure

• Scientific Innovations:

  • Claim: Accidental discoveries lead to innovations.
  • Evidence: Discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming due to contamination.
  • Commentary: Discuss the significance and wider implications of penicillin.
  • Counterargument: Acknowledge potential harm from scientific innovations (e.g., ethical concerns in animal testing).

• Artistic Genres:

  • Claim: Exploration leads to new artistic expressions.
  • Evidence: Lil Nas X's "Old Town Road" combines genres.
  • Commentary: This reflects innovation through cultural fusion.

• Public Policy Solutions:

  • Claim: The quest to explore unknown challenges results in new policies.
  • Evidence: FDR’s New Deal as an example of innovative policy development.
  • Commentary: Reflect on the risk-taking inherent in governance and policy-making.

Tips for Gaining General Knowledge

• Create an Info Bank:

  • Chart different categories (e.g., literature, current events).
  • Include titles, descriptions, analyses, and relevant quotes/statistics.
  • Customize it to focus on your interests to serve as a reference before the exam.

• Daily Reading:

  • Read reputable news sources (e.g., New York Times, Wall Street Journal).
  • Sign up for free newsletters (e.g., The Skim, Morning Brew) for regular news summaries.

• Review Relevant Class Material:

  • Brush up on non-fiction books or academic subjects that could support your essays.
  • Consider what media interests you and why it is relevant.

Remember

• Maintain a connection to the prompt throughout the essay.
• Show a broad understanding of issues and a willingness to engage with opposing viewpoints in a respectful and informed manner.