It is understandable to feel overwhelmed when studying for the AP® Lang exam. It is intense! However, preparing will allow you to feel confident and ready when exam day arrives. Now, you might be wondering What is the AP Lang exam format? Since everyone has limited time, you want to be sure to study with the right materials. Thankfully, this guide will help ensure you use your time wisely as you prepare!
Multiple Choice Questions
When taking the AP Lang exam, you will begin with 2 passages containing approximately 22-25 reading questions. The questions typically ask about author’s purpose, tone, and word choice. Then, there are 3 passages with about 20-22 writing questions. The questions are more like “editing” questions. You will work on adding or deleting sentences, using transition words, and combining sentences. If you cannot access AP Lang review, check out SAT or ACT questions. They will help you get used to similar-style questions.
Synthesis Essay
The synthesis essay, also known as Q1, is the most time-consuming because it requires you to read the provided sources. You should expect to be given 6-8 sources, at least one of which will be a visual text. Then, you will receive a prompt that asks you to develop a position on a given topic. In other words, you construct an argument and use the sources to support your point. It is important to remember you have to cite at least 3 sources. Make sure not to summarize the sources. They should support your argument and help prove your thesis.
For more information about how to write a synthesis essay, check out this blog post here.
Rhetorical Analysis
You will receive a passage for this essay, such as a speech, letter, or an article. You will analyze how a writer makes rhetorical choices to convey a message, achieve a purpose, or develop an argument. This includes examining facts, anecdotes, comparisons, contrasts, repetition, etc. Be sure to study different rhetorical choices and devices to help you identify what the author is doing.
For more information about rhetorical choices, check out this blog post.
Argument Essay
For this question, you will assert a position on a given topic. While the prompt usually contains a quote, you do not have to rewrite it or refer to the quote. It is just there to introduce the topic. While answering, you should include specific evidence from history, current events, outside knowledge, or personal experience. The commentary within your writing needs to explain the significance of the evidence. Furthermore, it needs to connect to the thesis.
Check out this video for 5 tips to improve your argument essay.
Terms to Know for AP Lang
When preparing for the essay portion, knowing a few key words will be essential. Each word is on the rubric, so it will be important to ensure you are comfortable applying these elements.
Defensible Thesis: This is the clear, overarching claim of the essay. You must defend it through the evidence and commentary within the paper.
Evidence: This includes specific, relevant examples. For the synthesis and rhetorical essays, this can come from the sources or passages provided. For the argument essay, you can use personal knowledge.
Line of Reasoning: This includes the logical progression of ideas. It is essential to use transitions within and between paragraphs to ensure your response reads smoothly.
Commentary: This is so important in your essay! It includes your explanation of the evidence and how it connects to the thesis. Check out this video for more info.
Sophistication: Honestly, this point is very difficult to earn. You cannot fancy up the wording in a sentence here or there to get the point. Just focus on your absolute best writing with a vivid, descriptive style. If you do this, you will do well on the line of reasoning and commentary. Thus, you will score better in those categories even if you do not earn the sophistication point. Check out this video for tips to earn the sophistication point.
Check out this video for a complete list of the terms Coach Hall thinks students should know for the exam.
AP Lang Exam Format
When the exam begins, you must complete two sections: multiple choice and essay questions. You have 1 hour to answer 45 multiple choice questions. This represents 45% of the composite score. Then, you have essay questions. You have 2 hours and 15 minutes to complete this section. There is a 15-minute recommended reading period with approximately 40 minutes per essay. However, you are ultimately responsible for managing your time. The system will prompt you when it suggests you move to the following essay, but you are in control of this. This section represents the remaining 55% of the composite score.
Scoring of the Exam
There has been some confusion over the scoring because there are two scores. This includes the essay rubric and the composite. You will not find out your composite score right away; scores are typically released in early July. When you receive your score, it will be a number from 1 to 5. You receive one number as your entire score. For the composite, you want to aim for 3 or higher. However, if you have any idea which colleges you want to apply to, check to see their specific score. They have a number you have to earn to receive college credit for the AP course.
Next time you wonder What is the AP Lang exam format? or How can I prepare? think back to this list. Don’t get too stressed. Take each study question one at a time. The time spent preparing will significantly help when exam day arrives.
