Glossary
Argumentation
The process of constructing a well-reasoned and supported claim, using logical appeals, evidence, and clear reasoning to persuade an audience.
Example:
A strong argumentation essay on climate change would present a clear claim, supported by scientific data and expert testimony.
Complex Diction
The use of advanced or sophisticated vocabulary to convey nuanced meaning and demonstrate a higher level of analytical thought in writing.
Example:
Instead of 'The book is good,' a thesis using complex diction might say, 'The novel artfully navigates themes of existential dread and societal alienation.'
Description
The use of sensory details and vivid language to portray a subject, influencing how the reader perceives its urgency, complexity, or straightforwardness within a thesis.
Example:
A thesis using description might state, 'The relentless, suffocating smog of industrial cities demands immediate global attention.'
Evidence and Commentary
In AP essays, 'evidence' refers to specific details or examples from a text or outside knowledge, while 'commentary' is the student's explanation of how that evidence supports their argument.
Example:
To earn full points on an FRQ, students must provide ample evidence and commentary, linking their textual examples directly to their thesis.
Free Response Questions (FRQs)
The essay portion of the AP English Language exam, requiring students to write analytical or argumentative essays in response to specific prompts.
Example:
Students must write three Free Response Questions during the AP English Language exam, including rhetorical analysis, argument, and synthesis.
Generalizing (with broad language)
Using inclusive or expansive language in a thesis to emphasize commonalities or widespread applicability of an argument across various situations or groups.
Example:
A thesis might be generalizing by asserting, 'The human desire for connection is a universal and enduring force, transcending cultural and historical boundaries.'
Length and Impact (of description)
The strategic choice of how extensive or concise a description is within a thesis, influencing the perceived urgency, complexity, or straightforwardness of the topic.
Example:
A thesis with significant length and impact might use a long, detailed description to emphasize the dire consequences of inaction on a global issue.
Qualifying (a thesis)
Modifying a thesis statement with specific conditions, exceptions, or limitations to make it more precise, defensible, and nuanced.
Example:
To avoid overgeneralization, a thesis might be qualifying by stating, 'While standardized tests can measure certain academic skills, they often fail to capture a student's holistic intellectual capabilities.'
Rhetorical Analysis
The examination of how authors use specific rhetorical choices—such as appeals, devices, and stylistic elements—to achieve a particular purpose or effect on an audience.
Example:
In a rhetorical analysis essay, a student might analyze how a speaker uses pathos to evoke sympathy from their audience.
Sophistication
A scoring criterion in AP essays that rewards complex thought, nuanced understanding of the rhetorical situation, and a highly developed, insightful argument.
Example:
A student demonstrates sophistication by acknowledging counterarguments and integrating them seamlessly into their own nuanced claim.
Strategic Word Choice
The deliberate selection of vocabulary to enhance the precision, impact, or tone of a written argument, particularly within a thesis statement.
Example:
In a persuasive essay, using 'catastrophic' instead of 'bad' to describe environmental damage demonstrates strategic word choice.
T.A.C.O.
An acronym (Topic, Argument, Context, Organization) used as a memory aid to guide students in crafting a comprehensive and effective thesis statement.
Example:
When drafting their thesis, students can use the T.A.C.O. method to ensure they've considered all crucial elements of their argument.
Thesis
The central, arguable claim of an essay that guides the entire argument and provides a roadmap for the reader.
Example:
A strong thesis for an essay on social media might be: 'While social media platforms offer unparalleled connectivity, their pervasive influence on mental health necessitates stricter regulatory oversight.'