COURSE NAME: AP English Literature and Composition

SCHOOL DISTRICT: Glens Falls

INSTRUCTOR: Donna Bates

Full Year

COURSE PREREQUISITES: It has been our experience that students who have a PSAT verbal score of 530 or
better are more able to handle the demands of these courses. In addition, a recommendation by the current
content teacher and/or an A- or higher in the current content course is seen as a good predictor of success.

BRIEF COURSE DESCRIPTION / OUTLINE: In this AP course in English literature and composition, college bound
seniors will be involved in both the practice of writing and the study of literature. They will learn to use the
modes of discourse and to recognize the assumptions underlying various rhetorical strategies. Through
speaking, listening, and reading, but chiefly through the experience of their own writing, students will become
more aware of the resources of language: connotation, metaphor, irony, syntax, and tone, for example.

Writing assignments will focus on the critical analysis of literature and will include essays in exposition and
argument. The desired goals are the honest and effective use of language and the organization of ideas in a
clear, coherent, and persuasive way. In lieu of a mid-year exam, students will prepare a 3000-5000 word
research/biography paper.

OTHER NOTES / MISCELLANEOUS: The advanced placement exam is required of all students taking this
course. The fee ($80.00 in 2003) charged by the College Entrance Examination Board must be paid by March
30th.


12/21/04