AB

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.