AP Language and Composition Course syllabus 2012 -13
Mrs. Donovan
AP Language and Composition is a college level course that combines the study of American literature, non-fiction
works, as well as the strategies of rhetoric.
Reading: You will study literature and nonfiction with a focus on language and rhetoric. You will also be required
to complete several independent reading assignments each semester based upon books from an assigned list.
Because reading quizzes and text annotation are important indicators of your attention to and/or understanding of
the assigned reading, they occur frequently.
Grammar: Literature and writing assignments will serve as springboards for grammar activities with particular
focus on sentence structure and style.
Vocabulary: You will take weekly vocabulary quizzes based upon words drawn from the assigned reading material,
from SAT preparation word lists, and AP preparation word lists.
Writing: The writing in AP Language and Composition will focus on rhetorical analysis, synthesis and
argumentation, but you will also be exposed to evaluation, comparison/contrast, description, as well as other
rhetorical modes. In addition, during the second semester you will be involved in an extended writing unit.
Throughout the year, you will practice both timed writing and process writing.
Speaking: You will have numerous opportunities speak in class in both formal and informal presentations as well as
daily discussion.
Fall Semester
Introduction to rhetorical analysis
 Review related terms
 Introduce the Rhetorical triangle and explore its application to text
 Explore rhetorical strategies used in fiction and non-fiction
Create independent reading plan for the semester (600 pages from book list)
(2 books per quarter)
Fahrenheit 451
 Continue study of rhetorical analysis of text
 Trace symbols, themes
 Study connected works to enhance the novel
 Write an style analysis essay
Introduce the Argument essay
 Review related terms
 Study Logos, Ethos, Pathos
 Examine AP sample argument essays
 Explore strategies in non-fiction essays
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
 Explore theme, satire, style
 Read critical essays on Huckleberry Finn
 Read other connected non-fiction pieces
 Write a multiple-draft argument essay
One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest
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Trace symbols, motifs
Continue practice of rhetorical analysis/argument
Complete heroes journey/theme development project
Study Visual text
 Present text analysis to class
Throughout the semester
 Vocabulary- quizzes most Fridays
 Independent reading
 Timed writings
 Sample AP exams
 Discuss current issues
Spring Semester
Following columnists assignment
 Study of persuasive techniques used in op/ed columns
 Study of the précis
 Student presentations based on columns/political cartoons
 Write argument essay based on columns
 Study synthesis writing
I-search writing project
 Conduct and write-up interviews/ site visitation
 Incorporate descriptive, narrative, reflective, and analytical writing.
 Study sentence structure and style
 Work in editing teams through multiple drafts of paper
 Read sample non-fictions pieces as writing models
 Synthesize material from multiple sources
AP Exam preparation
 Practice writing types
 Practice multiple choice questions
The Great Gatsby
 Continue symbol/theme exploration,
rhetorical analysis, argument, synthesis (connection to Death of a Salesman)
Death of a Salesman
 Thematic comparison to The Great Gatsby
Final exam/project
Throughout the semester
 Vocabulary- quizzes most Fridays
 Independent reading