AP Lit vs AP Lang: what's the difference?

Hey everyone! I'm trying to decide between taking AP Lit and AP Lang next year, but I'm not sure about the main differences between the two. Can anyone give me a brief overview of what to expect in each class?

Hey there! Both AP Lit and AP Lang are excellent choices, and I'm glad you're considering them. They do have some distinct differences in terms of focus and content:

AP English Language and Composition (AP Lang):

1. Focus: AP Lang is centered around rhetoric, which means understanding the choices authors make in their writing and how those choices impact readers. The course covers analyzing and writing various types of non-fiction texts (essays, speeches, articles, etc.).

2. Reading: Expect to read a range of non-fiction texts from different time periods and genres, though some fiction may occasionally appear. You'll delve into works by authors such as Frederick Douglass, George Orwell, and Martin Luther King Jr.

3. Writing: The writing assignments emphasize argumentation, synthesis, and rhetorical analysis. You'll be tasked with crafting persuasive essays, synthesizing information from different sources, and breaking down authors' rhetorical choices.

AP English Literature and Composition (AP Lit):

1. Focus: AP Lit is all about analyzing literature—primarily focusing on poetry, plays, and prose from various time periods, genres, and styles.

2. Reading: You'll read works by authors like Shakespeare, Jane Austen, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Toni Morrison, as well as a variety of poets. The selections will be primarily fiction, with an emphasis on close textual analysis.

3. Writing: Writing assignments involve literary analysis, close readings, and interpretation of texts through a specific lens (e.g., a particular theme or literary device). You'll be expected to develop your ability to support your analysis with well-chosen textual evidence.

So, in summary, AP Lang leans more towards rhetoric, non-fiction, and persuasive writing, while AP Lit focuses on literary analysis, fiction, and interpretation. There's no universal "better" choice, as it largely depends on your interests and goals. If you prefer non-fiction and enjoy crafting arguments, go for AP Lang. On the other hand, if you're passionate about literature and analyzing fiction, AP Lit might be the better fit. Good luck with your decision!