AP English Language and Composition is a course that focuses upon analyzing rhetoric. Throughout the year, we’ll be looking closely at various compositional styles, tools, and strategies that writers use to construct effective texts. Rhetorical devices (which are sometimes called “persuasive devices” or “stylistic devices”) are writing techniques that writers use to make their writing more effective. 

Being able to identify rhetorical devices and to analyze their functions are important skills in AP Lang. Learning about common rhetorical devices over the summer will help to establish a firm foundation of knowledge that we will build upon throughout the year. 

To make studying the rhetorical devices easier and less overwhelming, I have broken up the rhetorical devices you need to know into groups. Each Google Slides Deck below provides an overview of 3-5 rhetorical devices. I suggest taking notes or making flashcards to help yourself master the content. If at first you do not understand a certain rhetorical device, feel free to conduct your own independent research. This book is also a helpful resource, though purchasing it is in no way required.