AP English Literature and Composition

Course Number: C150 /
Category: English Language Arts /
Credits: 2 /
Recommended Grades: 12 /
Level: AP /
Length: Full Year /
Description: This course is equivalent to a college-level freshman English course. Students engage in careful reading and critical analysis of literature to deepen their understanding of how writers provide meaning and pleasure through language. Students consider the structure, style, and theme of each work, as well as elements like the use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism, and tone. Students read and analyze works by British and American writers from the 16th century through the present day. Writing assignments focus on critical analysis of literature through expository, analytical, and argumentative essays. Students develop and express their ideas in clear, coherent, and persuasive language, while also learning to write effectively under severe time constraints. Students are expected to take the AP English Literature & Composition exam in May. Students are required to complete a reading assignment and project assigned by the instructor during the summer preceding the course. Grades earned on this summer assignment are part of each student’s first quarter course grade. Prerequisites: A high level of success in previous English courses and a teacher recommendation.