In this course, whose syllabus for AP Lang has been approved by College Board, students will better learn how to tackle all aspects of persuasive writing, specifically in regards to rhetorical analysis and argumentative writing on the AP Lang exam. Students should have some argumentative writing abilities, but this course is designed to help those in AP Lang already OR for those aspiring to take it in the future. It is geared to meet the students where they are at and take them to where they want to be. 

The course will spend one week on the Rhetorical Analysis essay, working to break down specific prompts from past AP exams and create outlines to make sure the student fully understands how to break down the text. The second week is a think tank for the argument essay, really helping a student understand how to analyze both sides of the prompt and brainstorm ideas for how to logically support his/her position. The third week narrows in on the synthesis essay, really teaching students how to take the plethora of information thrown at them and dissect it to collect the most meaningful of evidence as they piece together the puzzle that is synthesizing correctly. Lastly, the fourth week focuses on rubric break down, multiple choice tips and tricks, and confidence boosting as students prepare for the exam itself; it also doubles as a week for students to submit their writing and receive personalized feedback as they grow in their craft.

Each week will start with a video lecture, break down, and explanation of one of the main essays in the course (rhetorical analysis, argument, and synthesis); then there will be an example essay prompt to read and practice writing. Throughout the week, to make this flexible course interactive, students will be given example responses to compare their own writing to as well as progress surveys sent throughout the week. It is expected that the student participate multiple times throughout the week, responding to the video lectures, essay assignments, and surveys. I will be providing feedback on all student submissions as well as encouraging peer feedback in a workshop model format. 

Sample Course Outline:
Week 1: Rhetorical Analysis Essay (Madeline Albright Speech, 2018) *Date example, April 26
Week 2: Argument Essay ("Overrated" Prompt, 2019) *Date example, May 3
Week 3: Synthesis Essay (Wind Turbines Research Packet, 2019) *Date example, May 10
Week 4: Multiple Choice Tips and Tricks, Rubric Breakdown, and Essay Workshop *Date example, May 17

*This course can be taken as a one time course, or repeated as needed for essay writing practice (each course will have different essay prompts as to not make the course repetitive).