5 Steps to a 5 AP English Language 2019

68 ❯ STEP 3. Develop Strategies for Success

Section II

Total Time—2¼ hours

Number of questions—3

Percent of total grade—55

Each question counts one-third of the total section score.

Note: After the 15 minute reading period, you will have a total of 2 hours to write,

which you may divide any way you choose. However, each essay carries the same weight,

so do NOT spend an inappropriate amount of time on any one question.

The next step is to quickly turn the pages of the packet and skim the given selections.

This should take you less than a minute.

Some Basics

Just What Is an AP English Language Analysis Essay?

Generally, the student is presented with a prose passage that can be drawn from various

genres and time periods. Although the specific tasks asked of the student may vary from

year to year, they will involve the analysis of language, including rhetorical strategies. (If

you are in doubt about the meaning of the underlined terms, make certain to refer to the

Glossary and the Comprehensive Review section.)

You may be extremely lucky and find a familiar piece by a familiar author. This cer-

tainly can enhance your comfort level. But, don’t try to plug into the question every-

thing you know about that author or selection if it does not exactly fit the prompt.

Likewise, do not be rattled if you are unfamiliar with the work. You will be familiar

with the approaches necessary to analyze it. Remember, this exam reaches thousands of

students, many of whom will be in a similar situation and equally anxious. Be confident

that you are thoroughly prepared to tackle these tasks and have fun doing so.

What Is the Purpose of the Analysis Essay?

The College Board wants to determine your facility with reading, understanding, and

analyzing challenging texts. They also want to assess how well you manipulate language to

communicate your written analysis of a specific topic to a mature audience. The level of

your writing should be a direct ref lection of your critical thinking.

AP is looking for connections between analysis and the passage. For example, when

you find an image, identify it and connect it to the prompt. Don’t just list items as you

locate them.

TIP

“Doing close readings
of editorial columns
in newspapers and
magazines is a real
help to my students as
they prepare to attack
both multiple-choice
questions and analysis
essays.”
— Chris S.,
AP teacher