AP English provides students with a learning experience equivalent to an undergraduate college course. This means the course requirements will demand more of students. We will closely read literature, discuss literature and write about literature. There are nightly readings and writings as well as daily discussions and writings.
Literature will include poetry, drama, fiction, non-fiction and short stories. Writings will emphasize critical analysis, research based writing as well as creative writing selections. Grammar and vocabulary are also stressed.
At the end of course, students will take the AP English Literature and Composition Exam. Students who score a grade of 3 or above on the exam will receive college credit at most colleges and universities.
Course Goals
Students will
1. Demonstrate after reading understanding and interpretation of both fiction and non-fiction text including comparing and contrasting texts using themes, settings, characters and idea as well as making and supporting assertions about text (1.1.11)
2. establish a reading vocabulary (1.1.11)
3. analyze the relationships, uses and effectiveness of literary elements used by one or more authors in similar genres including characterization, setting, plot, theme, point of view, tone and style (1.3.11)
4. analyze the effectiveness, in terms of literary quality, the author’s use of literary devices
including sound techniques, figurative language and literary structure (1.3.11)
5. write complex information pieces including research papers, analyses, evaluations and essays
6. write with a sharp, distinct focus including identifying topic, task and audience as well as establishing and maintaining a controlling point of view (1.5.11)
7. write using well developed content appropriate for the topic (1.5.11)
8. write with a command of the stylistic aspects of composition including using different types and lengths of sentences and the use of precise language (1.5.11)
9. contribute to discussions by asking relevant, clarifying questions; responding with relevant information or opinions; and introducing relevant, facilitating information, ideas and opinions to enrich the discussion (1.6.11)
10. use media for learning purposes (1.6.11)
11. organize, summarize and present the main ideas from research (1.8.11.)
Methods of Instruction
Discussion is the primary format of instruction within the AP classroom. Students should come to class prepared to both ask and answer questions about the text. Discussion will take place in large group format as well as small group format. As the class size for AP is smaller, there will be time for one on one instruction as well. Projects and assignments may be assigned individually or as group work.
Reading Assignments
Nightly reading assignments are a standard of the AP classroom. Longer works are divided into chapters or pages that will determine a starting and stopping point for the next day’s discussion. Shorter works of literature (poetry, drama, or short fiction) must be read thoroughly and carefully and may require less time to read. Homework and nightly readings are a requirement of the AP classroom but will be assigned with respect to the student’s other class work obligations.
Writing Assignments
Students will write extensively during this course. These writings will fall into one of two categories: critical or creative. No matter what type of writing is assigned, each is expected to adhere to the highest standards of composition. A strict emphasis is placed on the focus, content, organization and style of each piece of writing. This includes effective word choices, sentence structure, logical order, transitions as well as control of language. Additionally, students are expected to writing utilizing textual support (quotations) and effective arguments (both persuasive and explanatory).
There will be mini lessons throughout the course with a focus on grammar and usage, sentence construction and diction. Essays will be peer reviewed, revised and resubmitted.
Critical Writings
Critical writings include writings that are completed in the classroom and outside of the classroom. Students will write analysis essays of both poetry and drama. These papers require students to explicate how a piece of literature conveys its meaning. Areas of emphasis include theme, structure, language and poetic devices. Students will submit rough drafts for many of these essays, conference with either the teacher or a peer reviewer and then submit a final copy. Other essays will be written during a timed format. Students will receive feedback from these essays as well as an overall score.
Students will write research based critical essays as well as a persuasive research paper. Students will present the findings of their research through a speech format.
Formal papers will be graded according to a specific grading rubric. Timed writings will be graded using the AP English Literature and Composition scoring guide.
Creative Writings
Writings that fall into this category focus on the student’s ability to produce work in a literary genre. For example, students will write an iambic pentameter poem similar to the format utilized by Chaucer. This type of writing allows students to apply and demonstrate the knowledge gained through the course. Other writings may include the application of style, voice, tone, or figurative language.
Vocabulary
Weekly vocabulary will be assigned.
Assessment
Quizzes, tests, writings, projects and homework assignments are the main forms of assessment.
Quizzes will be utilized for vocabulary as well as reading comprehension checks. Tests will be given after each unit of study. A variety of writing assignments accompany each unit of study; therefore, writing grades may include essays, journals, timed writings, reflective pieces, etc. Projects may be individually assigned or as part of a group assignment. Group work will receive an individual grade as well as a group grade. Homework may include study guides, daily questions, summary statements, etc.
Grades are based on total number of points available during any given nine weeks. The overall grade for this course is weighted.
Required Text
Texts will be provided for each student. If a student plans to annotate a text, they should consider purchasing their own copy. All books are property of Jefferson-Morgan and must be returned.
Elements of Literature, Textbook
Oedipus/Antigone, Sophocles
Great Expectations, Dickens
Things Fall Apart, Achebe
Animal Farm, Orwell
Frankenstein, Shelley
The Old Man and the Sea, Hemingway
Death of a Salesman, Miller
Pride and Prejudice, Austen
Life of Pi, Martel
Poetry- as selected
Short Fiction and Essays- as selected