Comprehensive Review—Argument ❮ 157
Reading the Argument
In the multiple-choice section of the AP English Language exam, you are asked to read
several selections, many of which are argumentative. Remember two very important points.
No matter how brief or how lengthy the text is:
- There is a rhetorical context with a
- writer
- occasion or situation
- audience
Any good argument will effectively utilize and address each of these elements.
- Don’t make the mistake of evaluating an argument based simply on who wrote it. Don’t
confuse the messenger with the message.
With this in mind, your task is to read the given text critically and to:
- Determine who the speaker is, what the situation is, and who the audience is.
- Identify the position of the speaker.
- Check off the points made in support of the assertion.
You can easily accomplish these three tasks by highlighting, underlining, checking,
making marginal notes, or even outlining (if you have time). Once you have completed
your initial reading, you need to ask yourself several questions. In the case of the actual
AP English Language and Composition exam, your test makers will ask you the questions
based on these points.
- Are there any judgments in the presentation?
— Evidence is needed to support judgments.
- Recognize that fact is not the same as interpretation.
— Fact: You know it with certainty and can verify it.
— Interpretation: An explanation of the meaning and/or importance of a specific
item.
You must be able to distinguish between the two.
- Distinguish between literal and ironic statements. Recognizing the difference between
these two terms can save you from misreading the text.
— Ironic: Saying the opposite from what you really mean, as in satire.
— Clues to be aware of: diction, subject, selection of detail.
— Literal: What you read is what is the reality.
- Do not evaluate an argument based on its form. Look at the content. It’s easy to be
misled by “fabulous” writing.
Below is a checklist that functions as a rubric for the evaluation of any rhetorical
argument.
— A clearly developed thesis is evident.
— Facts are distinguished from opinions.
— Opinions are supported and qualified.
— The speaker develops a logical argument and avoids fallacies in reasoning.
KEY IDEA
KEY IDEA
