Yo. Just trying to get a handle on this whole AP Lit thing. Does anyone have insight into the types of questions I'll face on the exam? Any sharing would be much appreciated.
Absolutely, happy to provide some information on that! AP Literature exam typically covers both multiple-choice questions and free-response questions.
The multiple-choice section represents around 45% of your total score. These questions mainly test reading comprehension skills. Here, you'll be presented with passages from both literature and poetry, and the majority of the questions are passage-based rather than author or period-focused.
After reading a passage, you'll be asked to interpret its meaning, understand the author's intent, analyze characterization, analyze an author’s use of language, and so on. Essentially, you must show understanding of the passage and the ability to dissect the elements that make it unique.
The free-response section of the AP Literature exam represents 55% of your total score. This is divided into three essay questions.
1. First one is a literary analysis of a poem.
2. Second one is a literary analysis of a prose passage.
3. The third asks you to analyze a specific theme or issue in a novel or play that you choose.
In the essay portion, you'll be required to use evidence from the passage or work to support your argument, so a strong understanding of literary terms will be beneficial. Basically, the free-response section aims to assess your ability to craft thoughtful literary arguments, so clear, precise, and detailed writing is key.
This should give you a general sense of what to expect for the AP Lit exam. Good luck with your studying!
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