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  1. AP English Language
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Developing introductions and conclusions

Sophie Anderson

Sophie Anderson

7 min read

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Study Guide Overview

This AP English Language study guide covers crafting effective introductions and conclusions for the synthesis, rhetorical analysis, and argument essays. It details the key components of each essay type's introduction and conclusion, provides templates and practice questions, and emphasizes the importance of a strong thesis statement. The guide also offers general exam tips for time management and high-value topics.

#AP English Language: Mastering Introductions & Conclusions

Hey there, future AP Lang rockstar! 🌟 This guide is your ultimate cheat sheet for crafting killer introductions and conclusions, no matter the FRQ. Let's get you prepped and confident for test day!

Key Concept

Introductions and conclusions are like the bookends of your essay. They frame your argument, provide structure, and leave a lasting impression. Nail these, and you're already ahead of the game!

#Why Intros and Conclusions Matter?

Think of your essay as a story. The introduction is the opening scene, hooking your reader and setting the stage. The conclusion is the final act, tying up loose ends and leaving your audience satisfied.

  • Introduction: Grabs attention, provides context, states your thesis (your main argument).

  • Body Paragraphs: Develop your argument with evidence and analysis.

  • Conclusion: Summarizes main points, restates thesis, provides a final thought.

Exam Tip

A strong intro and conclusion can boost your score significantly. They show you understand the big picture and can craft a complete argument.

#1. Synthesis Essay: The Art of Combining Sources

#Introduction

  1. Grab Attention: Start with a bang! Use a surprising fact, a thought-provoking question, or a relevant quote. 💥

  2. Background Info: Give some context. What's the big picture? Why does this topic matter?

  3. Introduce Prompt & Claim: State the prompt and the claim it provides. What are you being asked to do?

  4. State Your Thesis: This is your main argument! Make it clear, concise, and specific. 💡

  5. Essay Overview: Briefly outline the main points you'll cover in your body paragraphs.

#Conclusion

  1. Restate Thesis: Say it again, but in a fresh way! Remind the reader of your main argument.

  2. Summarize Main Points: Briefly recap your key ideas. What evidence did you use?

  3. Final Thought: Leave the reader with something to ponder. A call to action? A prediction? 🤔

  4. Closing Statement: End with a strong, memorable line. Make it count!

Memory Aid

Intro = Hook + Context + Prompt + Thesis + Preview Conclusion = Restate + Summarize + Final Thought + Close

Practice Question
json
 {
  "mcq": [
    {
      "question": "Which of the following best describes the primary purpose of the introduction in a synthesis essay?",
      "options": [
        "To analyze th...
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Question 1 of 13

🚀 Introductions and conclusions are like what in your essay?

The main plot points

The opening and closing arguments

The bookends

The rising and falling action