Glossary
Agreement
A stance in an argumentative essay where the writer fully supports the author's viewpoint or the issue at hand.
Example:
When writing about a new city ordinance, you might express agreement with its goals of reducing traffic congestion.
Alliteration
The repetition of the same consonant sound at the beginning of closely connected words in a phrase or sentence.
Example:
The phrase 'slippery slope' uses alliteration to create a memorable and impactful image.
Allusion
An indirect or passing reference to a person, place, event, or literary work that the author expects the reader to recognize.
Example:
When a character says, 'It was his Achilles' heel,' this is an allusion to Greek mythology, implying a hidden weakness.
Argumentation
The process of constructing and supporting one's own claims effectively, often in response to a prompt or an existing issue.
Example:
Mastering Argumentation involves not just stating your opinion, but also providing compelling reasons and evidence to back it up.
Argumentative Essay
A type of essay that presents a clear, reasoned argument supported by evidence and analysis, aiming to persuade the reader of a particular viewpoint.
Example:
In an Argumentative Essay, you might argue for or against the implementation of a four-day school week, using research and logical reasoning to support your stance.
Ascetic
One who practices severe self-discipline and abstains from physical pleasures and comforts, often for spiritual reasons.
Example:
The philosopher chose an ascetic lifestyle, living simply and dedicating his time to contemplation rather than material pursuits.
Clear, reasoned argument
A logical and well-supported claim or position presented in an essay, demonstrating critical thinking and a coherent line of reasoning.
Example:
To make a clear, reasoned argument about the benefits of renewable energy, you would present data on efficiency, cost, and environmental impact.
Combination
A flexible approach in an argumentative essay where the writer blends different stances, such as starting with agreement, then qualifying, or arguing against and then conceding a point.
Example:
An essay might use a combination approach, initially agreeing with the need for technological advancement but then qualifying that stance by discussing ethical concerns.
Common Pitfalls
Typical mistakes or errors that students often make on the exam, such as vague language, unsupported claims, or ignoring counterarguments.
Example:
Avoiding Common Pitfalls like making sweeping generalizations without specific examples can significantly improve your essay score.
Contentious
Likely to cause disagreement or argument; controversial.
Example:
The debate over standardized testing remains a contentious issue in education, with strong arguments on both sides.
Disagreement
A stance in an argumentative essay where the writer completely opposes the author's viewpoint or the issue.
Example:
You could write an essay expressing disagreement with the idea that social media is inherently detrimental to mental health, citing studies on community building.
Discern
To perceive or recognize something clearly, often something that is not obvious or is difficult to detect.
Example:
It was difficult to discern the author's true feelings about the controversial topic, as her tone remained neutral throughout the article.
Dogmatic
Asserting opinions in an authoritative, often arrogant, manner as if they are proven facts, without considering other perspectives.
Example:
The speaker's dogmatic insistence that his economic theory was the only solution left no room for debate or alternative viewpoints.
Evidence and Analysis
The use of specific textual details or real-world examples (evidence) combined with explanations of how that evidence supports and develops the essay's thesis (analysis).
Example:
To earn points for Evidence and Analysis, you must not only quote the text but also explain how that quote illustrates the author's rhetorical strategy.
Free Response Questions (FRQs)
Essay questions on the AP English Language exam that require students to write argumentative, rhetorical analysis, or synthesis essays.
Example:
The Free Response Questions (FRQs) section of the exam is where you demonstrate your ability to construct well-developed essays under timed conditions.
Global Awareness
The ability to connect arguments to broader contexts and current events, demonstrating knowledge of real-world issues.
Example:
An essay discussing the impact of climate change would benefit from Global Awareness, referencing international agreements or specific environmental disasters worldwide.
Impartial
Unbiased; treating all rivals or disputants equally and fairly, without favoritism.
Example:
A good journalist strives to be impartial, presenting facts without letting personal opinions influence the reporting.
Multiple Choice
A common question type on the AP English Language exam that assesses understanding of rhetorical devices, author's purpose, and argumentative strategies.
Example:
When tackling Multiple Choice questions, always read all options carefully before selecting the best answer.
Nuance
A subtle distinction or variation in meaning, expression, or argument, which is crucial for developing a sophisticated and complex understanding of an issue.
Example:
Understanding the nuance between 'equality' (treating everyone the same) and 'equity' (providing what each person needs to succeed) is vital for complex social arguments.
Ostentatious
Characterized by showy displays designed to impress others, often with the intention of attracting notice.
Example:
The celebrity's ostentatious display of wealth, with multiple luxury cars and a sprawling mansion, drew both admiration and criticism.
Plan your essay
A pre-writing strategy that involves outlining main points, selecting evidence, and structuring the argument before drafting the essay.
Example:
Before writing, always plan your essay by jotting down a quick outline of your thesis, body paragraphs, and supporting evidence.
Proofread
The final step in the writing process, involving a careful review of the essay to identify and correct errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and clarity.
Example:
Always proofread your essay thoroughly to catch any typos or grammatical errors that could detract from your argument.
Qualification
A nuanced stance in an argumentative essay where the writer agrees with some aspects but disagrees with others, or acknowledges complexities and exceptions.
Example:
While generally supporting stricter environmental regulations, a writer might offer a qualification by acknowledging potential economic impacts on certain industries.
Read the prompt carefully
A crucial strategy involving thoroughly understanding all aspects and requirements of an essay prompt before beginning to write.
Example:
Always read the prompt carefully to identify the specific task (e.g., analyze, argue, synthesize) and any limitations or conditions.
Rhetorical Analysis
The examination of how authors use language, rhetorical devices, and appeals to persuade their audience in a given text.
Example:
In a Rhetorical Analysis essay, you might break down how a political speech uses emotional appeals (pathos) to rally support.
Sophistication
A scoring criterion that assesses the complexity, nuance, and insightful understanding demonstrated in an essay, often by acknowledging counterarguments or exploring deeper implications.
Example:
An essay earns a Sophistication point by acknowledging the limitations of its own argument or by exploring the broader societal implications of the issue.
Synthesis
The process of combining multiple sources or pieces of information to form a coherent, new argument or understanding.
Example:
A Synthesis essay might require you to integrate information from three different articles to build a comprehensive argument about the future of artificial intelligence.
Thesis
A clear, defensible, and specific claim that directly responds to the essay prompt and serves as the central argument of the essay.
Example:
A strong thesis for an essay on censorship might argue that while some restrictions are necessary, broad censorship stifles intellectual growth.
Time Management
The strategic allocation of time during an exam to ensure all sections and questions are addressed effectively.
Example:
Effective Time Management on the AP Lang exam means dedicating specific amounts of time to reading the prompt, outlining, writing, and proofreading each essay.
Use strong transitions
A writing strategy that involves employing words, phrases, or sentences to smoothly connect ideas, paragraphs, and sections of an essay.
Example:
To ensure coherence, use strong transitions like 'Furthermore,' 'In contrast,' or 'Consequently' to guide the reader through your argument.