Everything You Need to Get a 5 on AP English Language and Composition

Introduction

• Techniques and tips to score a 5 on the AP English Language and Composition exam.
• Detailed strategies for preparation and success.

Free Resources for Last-Minute Study

• Ultimate AP English Language Study Guide: Comprehensive guide by a former APUSH student.
• AP English Language Flashcards: Helpful for quick revisions.
• Score Calculator from Albert: Useful tool for score estimation.

What to Memorize for the Exam

• Multiple-Choice Section
  • Comprehend nonfiction passages.
  • Recognize rhetorical devices.
  • Skills in writing and revision.

Types of Questions in Multiple-Choice

1. Understanding the Passage
   • Keywords: "according to," "refers."
2. Reading Between the Lines
   • Keywords: "best supported," "implies," "suggests."
3. Big Picture and Author Questions
   • Author's attitude, purpose, style.
4. Connecting the Dots
   • Relationships between text parts.
5. Figuring Out the Figurative
   • Hidden meanings behind figurative language.
6. What's the Point?
   • Purpose of specific text parts.
7. Tricks up Their Sleeve
   • Spot rhetorical strategies.
8. Playing the Writer
   • Writer's decisions in text modification.

Exam Content and Skills

• Skills Tested
  • Identifying author's purpose and audience.
  • Spotting rhetorical devices.
  • Building and presenting arguments.
  • Effective citation in research.
  • Planning and revising essays.

Exam Format

• Section 1: Multiple-Choice
  • 45 questions in 1 hour.
  • Tests rhetorical understanding and composition.
• Section 2: Free-Response
  • 3 essays in 2 hours (15-min reading period).
  • Essay 1: Synthesize sources.
  • Essay 2: Analyze rhetorical strategies.
  • Essay 3: Original argument without sources.

Scoring

• Multiple-choice: 45% of score.
• Free-response: 55% of score, 0-6 points per question.

Self-Study Tips

• Engage with Text: Mark important elements, notice devices.
• Identify Purpose and Argument: Understand the author's intention.
• Plan Essays: Outline arguments and organize content.
• Consider Counterarguments: Strengthen your position by acknowledging oppositions.

Exam Difficulty

• Rated 5.2 on a difficulty scale.
• Pass rate of 56% (score 3 or higher).
• Requires effort but is achievable with dedication.

AP English Language and Composition Scores

• Average score trends from 2014-2020 show fluctuation but remain around 2.82.

Conclusion

• With the right preparation, resources, and strategy, achieving a 5 on the AP English Language and Composition exam is possible.