AP English Language and Composition

AP Seminar

AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION COURSE DESCRIPTION

AP English Language and Composition is a college-level course that focuses on rhetoric, argumentation, and the analysis of nonfiction texts. Students read a wide range of essays, speeches, journalism, historical documents, and visual texts. The course emphasizes critical reading, analytical writing, and effective communication. Students learn to develop evidence-based arguments, write in a variety of rhetorical modes, and understand how language shapes meaning and purpose.

The course prepares students for the AP Exam in May, which includes multiple-choice questions and free-response essays. A high score may qualify students for college credit or advanced placement in college English courses.

AP SEMINAR COURSE DESCRIPTION

AP Seminar is a foundational course in the AP Capstone™ program that develops students’ skills in research, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication. In this course, students explore real-world issues through a variety of lenses, analyze diverse perspectives, and craft evidence-based arguments.

Throughout the year, students will engage in both team and individual projects that emphasize inquiry, source evaluation, argument development, and presentation skills. They will learn to synthesize information from multiple sources and communicate their ideas clearly and effectively through writing and speaking.

Major course assessments include:

• Team Project and Presentation (20%)

• Individual Research-Based Essay and Presentation (35%)

• End-of-Course Exam (45%) – includes analyzing and writing evidence-based arguments using provided source material. 

SUPPLIES

• Binder with loose-leaf, college-ruled notebook paper

• Dividers

• Index Cards

• Sticky Notes

• Highlighters

• Sharpies