Chapter 1

Keys for Success on the AP English Literature and

Composition Exam

It was July 1995, after my first year teaching AP English. My son had taken a phone message from
one of my students who was very excited to tell me the results of her exam. He said, “Mom, one of your
students called and said she got a four on some test.” Confused by what appeared to be a very low
score, he then asked, “Is that good?” I smiled. Not good. It is great!