Welcome to AP Literature and Composition! This course is designed to challenge and reward your passion for reading and writing. We will delve deep into the intricacies of literary analysis, exploring various genres and periods while honing your critical thinking and communication skills. This syllabus outlines the course's structure, expectations, and assessment methods.
Course Overview
This course is a rigorous exploration of college-level literary study. We'll move beyond simple plot summaries to engage in in-depth analysis of literary techniques, themes, and authorial intent. Expect to read critically, write thoughtfully, and discuss passionately. Our focus will be on developing your abilities to:
- Analyze literary texts: Identify and interpret literary devices, themes, and structures.
- Construct well-supported arguments: Develop insightful and persuasive essays based on textual evidence.
- Write effectively: Compose clear, concise, and engaging prose in various formats.
- Think critically: Engage in thoughtful discussions and debates about literature.
- Understand the historical and cultural contexts of the texts we study.
Required Texts
The following texts are required for this course. Additional readings may be assigned throughout the semester.
- [Insert List of Required Texts Here, including authors and editions. Example: The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald (Penguin Classics edition), Hamlet by William Shakespeare (Folger Shakespeare Library edition), etc.]
Assessments
Your grade will be based on a variety of assignments, designed to assess your understanding of the course material and your ability to apply the skills we develop.
Major Assessments (70% of final grade):
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Literary Analysis Essays (40%): You will write multiple essays throughout the semester, focusing on different aspects of literary analysis. These essays will require close reading, insightful interpretation, and well-supported arguments. Expect various essay prompts, including those requiring comparative analysis.
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AP-Style Exams (20%): We will simulate the AP Literature exam throughout the course, providing opportunities for practice and feedback. These will include both multiple-choice and free-response sections, mirroring the format of the actual exam.
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Major Research Paper (10%): A significant research paper focusing on a literary topic of your choosing will require in-depth research, critical analysis, and sophisticated writing.
Minor Assessments (30% of final grade):
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In-Class Assignments & Participation (15%): Active participation in class discussions, completion of in-class reading responses, and participation in small group activities are vital to your success in this course.
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Quizzes (15%): Regular quizzes will assess your understanding of the assigned readings and related concepts. These will test comprehension and your ability to identify key literary elements.
Course Schedule (Tentative)
(A detailed, week-by-week schedule will be provided at the beginning of each unit.)
- Unit 1: Introduction to Literary Analysis; [List of Works for this Unit]
- Unit 2: [Genre/Period Focus - e.g., American Romanticism]; [List of Works for this Unit]
- Unit 3: [Genre/Period Focus - e.g., Shakespearean Tragedy]; [List of Works for this Unit]
- Unit 4: [Genre/Period Focus - e.g., Modernism]; [List of Works for this Unit]
- Unit 5: Review and Exam Preparation
Classroom Policies
- Attendance: Regular attendance is crucial for success in this course. Missed work must be made up promptly.
- Late Submissions: Late submissions will be penalized.
- Academic Honesty: All work must be your own. Plagiarism will result in serious consequences.
- Technology: Laptops may be used for specific tasks, but cell phones should be put away during class.
Contact Information
[Insert your name, email address, and office hours here.]
This syllabus is subject to change at the instructor's discretion. Any changes will be announced in class and/or via email. I encourage you to actively participate, ask questions, and seek help when needed. Let's embark on a rewarding journey of literary exploration together!
