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Advanced Placement

English Language And Composition

Exam Review

April 28 2007

Broward County Schools

This page intentionally left blank

1

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

1

AP English Languageand Composition

Multiple-Choice Questions

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Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

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Types of Questions

bull Whole Passagebull Specific Parts of the Passage

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Format of MC Section

bull There are typically four passagesbull There are on average 50-55 questionsbull You have 60 minutes to respondbull Accounts for 45 of your exam score

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Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

4

Whole Passage Questions

bull The diction in the passagehellipbull The passage most directly resembleshellipbull Which of the following best describes the

passagehellipbull The intended audience for the passagehellip

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Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

5

Specific Parts Questions

bull Analysis of a paragraphrsquos stylebull Analysis of a primary purposebull Analysis of tonebull Analysis of words or phrasesbull Grammatical constructionsbull Antecedentsbull Relating one part of the passage to anotherbull Vocabulary in context

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Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

6

Level of Difficulty

bull MC questions vary in level of difficultybull Questions are NOT arranged by order of

difficulty as in some other tests (PSAT SAT)

2

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Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

7

Answering the Questions

bull Complete all the questions that you intend to answer on one passage before proceeding to the next one

bull Only return to unanswered questions if you have enough time remaining

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Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

8

New for 2007

bull Recognize the contribution andor rhetorical purpose of footnotes used in a passage

bull NOT required to have memorized any particular styles (for example MLA Chicago APA etc)

bull Responsible for gleaning information from citations

Types of Multiple-Choice Questions

Questions on the whole passage Which of the following best describes the passage (A) An appeal for the readerrsquos sympathy and admiration (B) A brief overview of the methods that the author used (C) A summary of the principles according to which the author worked (D) A warning to the reader about the complexity of the ensuing work (E) A challenge to those who would doubt the accuracy of the authorrsquos work The diction in the passage is best described as (A) technical and abstruse (B) lofty and learned (C) pedestriasn (D) colloquial (E) scientific The intended audience for this passage is most probably (A) pious readers (B) educated adults (C) amateur writers (D) professional poets (E) book publishers

The passage most directly resembles the speakerrsquos sense of Parkerrsquos style in its (A) juxtaposition of disparate elements (B) lyrical description of religion and art (C) blatant mimicry of other writersrsquo techniques (D) relentless insistence on a single theme (E) reliance on abbreviated staccato phrases

Questions on specific parts of the passage Analysis of a paragraph

One prominent stylistic characteristic of the first paragraph is the use of (A) metaphor (B) understatement (C) parallel syntax (D) personification (E) euphemism In the third paragraph the speakerrsquos primary purpose is to (A) assert her own qualifications (B) develop an argument for more honesty in writing (C) create an elaborate analogy (D) introduce a new topic for consideration (E) establish a hypothetical situation for analysis The tone of lines 59-72 can best be described as (A) tentative and prudent (B) detached and ironic (C) fervent and emphatic (D) defensive and self-aware (E) supportive and reassuring

Analysis of words or phrases Which of the following best describes Johnsonrsquos use of the terms ldquoslave or

sciencerdquo and ldquopioneer of literaturerdquo (lines 10-11) (A) The contrast between the two terms emphasizes the variety of possible responses to the

dictionary (B) Both sensationalize the difficulty of the lexicographerrsquos research (C) The difference between the two terms illustrates the range of the lexicographerrsquos experience (D) Both exaggerate the publicrsquos lack of admiration for lexicographers (E) Each illustrated what is meant later in the sentence by ldquoLearning and Geniusrdquo The ldquoarrowrdquo in line 38 is a metaphorical reference to (A) unrequited love (B) the envy of other female writers (C) the self-doubt that writers sometimes experience (D) a painful memory (E) criticism from men

Grammatical constructions

In line 12 ldquowhordquo refers to (A) ldquounhappy mortalsrdquo (line8) (B) ldquomankindrdquo (line 9) (C) ldquopupilrdquo (line 10) (D) ldquothe slaverdquo (line 10) and ldquothe pionierrdquo (line 10) (E) ldquoLearning and Geniusrdquo (line 12) Which words when inserted between ldquobutrdquo and ldquocapablerdquo (lines 7-8) best clarify the meaning of the second sentence (A) as if (B) becoming more (C) by being (D) which were (E) that are

Antecedents In line 17 ldquothis negative recompenserdquo refers to (A) freedom from criticism (B) gratitude from future generations (C) personal satisfaction (D) diligence as its own reward (E) absence of recognition

Relating one part of the passage to another part

How is the second paragraph related to the first (A) It qualifies the generalization made in the first paragraph by challenging the scope of the

assertions (B) It refutes the assertion made in the first paragraph by presenting a contrary example (C) It continues the generalization made in the first paragraph by giving it a particular

application (D) It supports the assertion made in the first paragraph by citing the testimony of authority (E) It reiterates the ideas in the first paragraph while noting a possible exception

Vocabulary in context As used in line 46 ldquowantingrdquo is best interpreted to mean (A) desiring (B) capturing (C) lacking

(D) faulting (E) hunting Use of Footnotes The purpose of footnote 4 is to inform the reader that the quotation in line 49

(A) has been attributed to three different designers (B) was first cited in 1918 (C) was the inspiration for an exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum (D) is an article in The Machine Age in America 1981-1941 written by Harry N Abrams Inc

Terminology from past AP Tests Multiple Choice Questions D Fettrow

Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurposeabstraction action verb alliteration allusion (literary historical) analogy analysis anecdote antithesis appeal to authority apostrophe argument assertion characterization citing of authorities colloquial expression commentary comparison concrete examples context counterbalance critique criticism data deduction description developing an argument

diction digression discussion distinguish emphasis enumerate enunciate expand on expository extending an example fallacy extending a metaphor generalizations hypothesizing illuminate illustrate image implies irony issues justify juxtaposition narration onomatopoeia overstatement oxymoron paradox

parallelism parody pathos personal observation personification praise proposal pun qualifying rebuttal refute reveal scientific term simile speculation subordinate clause summary (ize) symbol thesis transitions undercut understatement unfold taking exception unqualified assertion verbal irony

ToneStyle Wordsabashed abhorring abstract admiring adoring affectionate agitated ambiguous ambivalent angry annoyed antagonistic anxious apathetic apprehensive arch awkward biting blunt boring

brusque candid celebratory choleric combative complex confusing contemplative confident conciliatory condescending contemptuous cynicism dangerous defensive derisive despairing desperate detached didactic

diffident earnest effusive elegiac empathetic emphatic enigmatic entrapped erratic euphoric fatalistic fateful fervent flippant foreboding gloomy growth hopeful hopeless hostile

Terminology from past AP Tests Multiple Choice Questions D Fettrow

incisive indecisive inflammatory informative innovative insolent intimate introspective ironic isolated jocund jovial laudatory lethargic lugubrious lyrical mock solemnity modest naive

nostalgic objective ornamental parochial passionate personal pessimistic pointed prudent reassuring refined reflective resigned resentful respectful reticent sanguine self-assured self-deprecating

self-aware sentimental skeptical solemnity speculative straightforward struggling subtle supportive sympathetic suspicious tentative vitriolic vivid whimsical wistful wry zealous

Grammatical Constructionantecedent subject of sentence

parallel structure prepositions

General Vocabularyadmonitions advisability amplifying appease ascertain awesome barrenness blatant burdensome concept conspicuous contradictions contrived depiction definitive digressive discredit discursive dispense with diverse dubious dyspeptic

emitting entrepreneur erratic exalted exclusive fateful foreknowledge futility hostile inanimate interlocked intimidate invalid linguistic jeremiads magnanimity mimicry monarch nomenclature objective particular perspective

pervasive phenomena preceding predecessors pretext profound regal relentless resolve sensibility serenity staccato subtle subjective surpass tentative treachery undaunted undercut unique unrequited unsophisticated

Sample Footnote Questions 1 Which of the following is an accurate reading of footnote 2

(A) An article by John F Kasson appears on page 427 of Engineering (B) ldquoMachine Tools at the Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo was published in New York (C) The article ldquoEngineeringrdquo can be found on page 427 of ldquoMachine Tools at the

Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo (D) ldquoMachine Tools at the Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo is an article published in the May

26 1876 issue of Engineering (E) Engineering is an article cited by John F Kasson

2 The purpose of footnote 4 is to inform the reader that the quotation in line 49

(A) has been attributed to three different designers (B) was first cited in 1918 (C) was the inspiration for an exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum (D) is an article in The Machine Age in America 1981-1941 written by Harry N

Abrams Inc (E) appears in a book written by Wilson Pilgrim and Tashjian and published in 1986

3 Taken as a whole the footnotes suggest that

(A) the author of the passage wants the text to present highly technical material (B) the author of the passage relies heavily on Kassonrsquos book (C) very little was written about the topic of machinery and ornamentation prior to

1976 (D) engineering magazines are an essential source for technical writers (E) except in rare cases it is best to use the latest published work when documenting

an idea or concept

Answer Key 1 D 2 E 3 B

1

AP English Languageand Composition

Effective Essay Writing for Rhetorical Analysis and

Argumentation

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Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

2

The Prompt

bull The most wonderful essay ever written CANNOT score in the high range if its content is OFF PROMPT

bull Make sure you are reading the prompt correctly and addressing what it is asking of you

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

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Types of Prompts

bull Analysis (RhetoricalArgument)bull Argumentationbull Synthesis

ldquoStudents should read essay prompts as texts making certain they have understood what they are

being asked to dordquo ~ M Elkins

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

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1 Read the Prompt

bull Read the promptbull Read the prompt againbull Underline key wordsphrasesbull Number those elements that must be

accomplished in the essaybull Do everything the prompt suggests

address every part of the prompt

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

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Sample Prompts wNotation

bull See Handoutsbull Annotate the Prompt to discover and stay

focused on your TASK(S)bull Annotate the passage according to the

TASK(S)bull Determine the Authorrsquos IntentPurpose in

the passage

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

6

Analysis

bull Rhetorical ndash consider tone attitude point of view techniques diction imagery syntax language level

bull Argument ndash consider tone attitude strategies emphasis diction imagery syntax appeals

2

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Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

7

General Analysis Terms(Recent Exams)

bull ldquoCrafts the Textrdquobull Rhetorical Strategiesbull Most Compelling (ObservationArgument)bull Strategies Used (to Satirize)bull ldquoConveys the EffectFeelingetchelliprdquo

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

8

Specific Terms

bull Argumentsbull Assumptionsbull Sentence Structure Syntaxbull Tonebull Point of Viewbull Detail

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

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Consider Your Task

bull Analyze techniquesbull ConveyDefine Attitudebull Achieve Purposebull Effect on AudienceReaderbull Reveal Differences in Purpose

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Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

10

Authorial Intent

bull Consider Purposebull Consider Audiencebull Consider Occasionbull What is the RHETORICAL purpose of the

passagebull What techniques of LANGUAGE does the

writer use to achieve that purpose

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

11

2 Read the Passagebull Annotate as you readbull Identify subject and examples usedbull Mark diction ndash connotation and ironybull Use ofChoices in Imagery ndash parallel

themes and symbolsbull Unusual Syntax andor Punctuationbull Connection andor Organization of ideas

paragraphs sentences

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

12

3 Organization

bull Think before you writebull DO NOT begin by restating ie parroting

the prompt word for wordbull Thesis need to be specific ndash how do the

purpose and language interactbull Characterize the elements under analysis

donrsquot just list them

3

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

13

Use DetailsExamples

bull Quote from the passage liberallybull Use examples of diction details

assumption figurative language etchellipbull Use short quotes ndash embed into your own

statementsbull Always explain the writerrsquos purpose in

including these devices

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

14

Write about what you know

bull You cannot possibly explore every rhetorical devicetechnique the author has used

bull Select those for which you can explain the function and purpose

bull Look for connections between the various devicesstrategies

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

15

Writing the Body pararsquos

bull Be thorough and specific ANALYZEbull Do not simply ldquopoint outrdquo strategiesbull Explain how they are usedbull Provide examples from the textbull Speculate as to why the author included

them what is their effectbull How do they support the purpose

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

16

Focus on Function

bull Donrsquot guess about the name of a devicebull If you arenrsquot sure if the name is

onomatopoeia or oxymoron or metonymy then donrsquot use the term

bull But do include the ldquobuzzrdquo and ldquoloud silencerdquo and ldquothe crownrdquo hellip

bull And then discuss HOW they contribute to the selection

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

17

A Good Length

bull No magic number of paragraphsbull Divide into paragraphs ndash donrsquot write one long

paragraph ndash find natural breaks and indentbull Find a pattern of organization order of

appearance words to phrases to paragraphshellipbull WATCH YOUR TIME ndash you want to include

language from the WHOLE passage

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

18

Style and Voice

bull Write to express not to impress ndash use natural language

bull Demonstrate that you understand style ndashshow how the author developed the selection to create a desired effect

bull Maintain an economy of language ndash say much with few words - CONCISION

4

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Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

19

Style and Voice (contrsquod)

bull Best to use third person (he she they) rather than first person

bull Try to use present tense when discussing literaturewritten text

bull Write legibly ndash the readers cannot reward you for what you do well if they cannot read it

bull Let your work stand on its own merits ndash no pity notes (ldquoI was up all nightrdquo etchellip

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

20

Verbs that contribute

bull Chroniclesbull Delineatesbull Demonstratesbull Depictsbull Exemplifiesbull Featuresbull Illuminates

bull Portraysbull Reflectsbull Specifiesbull Suggestsbull Illustratesbull DO NOT USE

ndash goes shows tells

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

21

Argumentation

bull Defend ndash Support ndash agree completelybull Challenge ndash Dispute ndash disagree

completelybull Qualify ndash means to agree or disagree

except in certain circumstancesbull Choose the approach for which you can

find the most evidence Take a stand Donrsquot straddle the fence

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Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

22

Step One

bull Determine the point of the author in the passage

bull Develop you own position on that point (Agree Disagree Qualify)

bull Choose the side for which you have the most detail for support

bull This provides the details for you introduction

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

23

Finding Evidence (details)

bull If appropriate find details from a variety of sources

bull Use historybull Use sciencebull Use literaturebull Use current eventsbull Use personal observation

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

24

Be Specific with Details

bull Reasons ndash use illustrationsbull Examples ndash include names titlesbull Incidents ndash include dates placesbull FactsStatistics ndash DO NOT make them upbull Personal Experience ndash donrsquot generalize

use names places

5

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

25

Use Quality Detail

bull Avoid inaccuracies ndash BE RIGHTbull Add as many specifics as possible ndash

specific names specific dates specific titles

bull Be coherent ndash include only RELEVANT detailshellipmore is NOT necessarily merrierhellipdonrsquot include details that donrsquot directly support your point

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

26

Organize the Argument

bull Write a strong thesis ndash state your position clearly

bull Formulate 3-4 paragraphsbull Admit the opposition ndash acknowledge the

opposing argumentbull Make your points relevant and accuratebull Add a conclusion

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

27

Argument Intro

bull Write a short intro in which youhellipbull Explain the position of the authorbull Present your position and any background

the reader needs to knowbull Include a strong thesis ndash one that clearly

presents the position (defend challenge qualify)

bull Do NOT repeat the promptBroward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

28

Concession

bull Think of the argument the opposing side might propose

bull Be willing to concede a pointbull Think of ways to acknowledge those

arguments and refute thembull Might place after your introduction donrsquot

spend more than two sentences

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

29

The Body

bull Start with the weakest and end with the strongest

bull Divide your assertions into paragraphs with the appropriate support in each

bull Apply effective transitions to match the organization of the content

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

30

Conclusion

bull Write a brief conclusion in which you return - with force - to your position

bull Try to come full-circle ndash return to idea you usedmentioned in your introduction

bull Consider analogies to your point in the introduction to avoid merely repeating the introduction

6

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

31

Voice and Style - redux

bull Generally use a less formal style than with analysis essays

bull Use first person if it seems naturalbull AVOID second person - ldquoyourdquobull Write naturally past tense is okaybull Use exact diction (avoid non-specific

language ldquoonerdquo ldquothingrdquo etchellip)

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

32

Answer the Question

bull Look for key wordsbull Choose only one approachbull Use a variety of evidencebull Be specific

The study of rhetoric stretches back to classical Greece Today the term is most commonly taken pejoratively meaning bombastic or exaggerated language But rhetoric also has a neutral meaningmdashrhetoric as the art or science of persuasion by means of stylistic and structural techniques The study of rhetoric is useful because it encourages us to think of writing (and speaking for that matter) as a series of strategic choices Every attempt to put words together includes choices about which words to use and how to arrange them In this sense all writers like it or not use rhetoric

Even simplicity is a rhetorical and political choice George Orwell for instance was a master of the plain style and used it to devastating effect in his political journalism and novels like 1984 and

Animal Farm (for more on the rhetoric of simplicity see Hugh Kenner ldquoThe Politics of the Plain Stylerdquo in Literary Journalism in the Twentieth Century ed Norman Sims [New York Oxford University Press 1990])

Rhetoric is also useful because it encourages thinking about ones audience Different audiences require different rhetorical choices In the following section Ill list some of the most pertinent rhetorical techniques or tropes when writing for academic audiences

Diction

Perhaps the first rhetorical choice a writer makesmdashand all writers make this choice whether they realize it or notmdashis diction or what words to use Different words even if they ostensibly mean the same thing have different connotations as the poet W H Auden well understood And different audiences have different expectations about appropriate diction Academic writing requires a more formal diction than everyday talk or journalism and within academe writing in the natural sciences requires a more formal diction than writing in the humanities Im no great fan of formality in writing but on the other hand one does need to know and respect the conventions of academe and other professional forums for serious writing

ORIGINAL REVISION

The layers of dirt were not messed up at all The sedimentary levels were undisturbed

In general the more specialized training a profession requires the more it develops its own jargon as a way of differentiating those who have acquired the proper training from those who have not Twist a policemans arm for instance and you still probably couldnt get him to say car or robber or gun or hit or saw long professional training has habituated him to vehicle alleged perpetrator firearm strike and observed This kind of Official Style diction is all around us Students tend to learn it as the epitome of adult discourse and to go too far in incorporating it into their own writing

My general advice regarding diction is to prefer plain to fancy unless the scholarly field expects a particular word Since appropriate choices vary within specific disciplines and sometimes between individual scholars my suggestion to students is to locate model

authors within their chosen fields and study those authors diction and other rhetorical strategies Your professors can help you find good models ask them to recommend respected scholars who write well There are always at least a few in every field

Parallelism

Parallelism is one of the most useful and flexible rhetorical techniques It refers to any structure which brings together parallel elements be these nouns adjectives verbs adverbs or larger structures Done well parallelism imparts grace and power to passage

The princes strength is also his weakness his self-reliance is also isolation

In Machiavellis world Sheldon Wolin observes moral ends have been replaced by ironies answers have been replaced by questions

The characters are all watching one another forming theories about one another listening contriving

One side sees Lincoln as a bold and shrewd leader sincerely committed to abolishing slavery the other sees him as an opportunistic politician concerned only to defend the union in any way possible

Problems with faulty parallelism are very common because many people know (or think they know) what they want to say and dont scrutinize what they actually write In the following examples the parallel elements in the revisions are emphasized

ORIGINAL REVISION

Someone acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

Acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and the need to get rid of sentimental attachments

Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and ridding oneself of sentimental attachments

Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and he tries to avoid marriage

Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and tries to avoid marriage

One frequent source of trouble is nested listsmdashwhen one sublist occurs within another list The writer of this sentence lost track and thought the final comma signaled the last item in the main list

Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American

Association of Colleges and Universities

The trick is to recognize that this is actually a nested list and maintain parallelism within each list

Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers and in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

The list is technically okay but its complexity makes it a bit hard to read One could rearrange the list to emphasize different elements and allow some pauses

Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and in targeted outlets like the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

Note that among other changes the revision adds the word targeted which makes it easier to get the lists logic As ever revision is equal parts rewriting and rethinking

One other problem with parallelism is fairly common though this is a stylistic rather than a grammatical lapse Writers often repeat too much in the parallel elements detracting from parallelisms economical elegance

ORIGINAL REVISION

Socrates led a private life as opposed to a public life

Socrates led a private rather than a public life

Parallelism can be employed in many different ways One spin is inversion or chiasmus in which parallel elements are carefully reversed for emphasis A famous example comes from President John F Kennedys inaugural address (1961)

Ask not what your country can do for youmdashask what you can do for your country

Inversion often gains power by focusing attention on the ends of sentences where readers and listeners naturally pause Kennedys example shows this as does the next example from a 19th-century religious leader defending his honesty despite his change of religion

I have changed in many things in this I have not

By putting the prepositional phrase in this at the beginning of the second clause the speaker is able to end on that emphatic final not

Repetition

Repetition is one of the most useful tools available to writers Repetition allows a writer or speaker to hammer home an idea image or relationship to force the reader or listener to pay attention Two classic examples of the incredible power of repetition are Mark Antonys They are all honorable men speech in Shakespeares Julius Caesar (32) and Martin Luther King Jrs I have a dream speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963

But many writers especially young writers fear repetition apparently believing that repeating a word within a single sentence or short passage is bad style H W Fowler author of the old but still recommended Fowlers Modern English Usage (1st ed 1926) called this tendency elegant variation and observed There are few literary faults so widely prevalent

Heres an example of a student working hard to avoid repeating words within a sentence It doesnt work well the revision repeats words and reads more easily

ORIGINAL REVISION

The test group got an average of seven test questions correct the mean for the control category was thirteen valid responses

The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group averaged thirteen

The originals nervous avoidance of repetition (for instance using first group and then category) makes it a bit hard to follow The revision by contrast is easier to follow because it repeats words and syntactical structures Note that repetition allows the writer to cut some repeated elements and focus attention on the key information the contrast

Practiced writers will also employ all sorts of variations on this pattern of repetition

The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group thirteen

The test group averaged seven correct answers to the control groups thirteen

Another example of a writer afraid of repetition

ORIGINAL REVISION

First the North Koreans made an incursion almost all the way down the peninsula then Americans and South Korean forces drove back into the north

First the North Koreans drove almost all the way down the peninsula then American and South Korean forces drove back into the north

In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

Using tenses consistently

Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

ORIGINAL REVISION

Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

The historical present

One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

ORIGINAL REVISION

Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

ORIGINAL REVISION

Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

ORIGINAL REVISION

A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

Alliteration

Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

The rule of three

This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

doesnt try to soften his image

A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

Humor

Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

First and second person

Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

Questions and exclamations

Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

Placing emphasis

If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

ORIGINAL REVISION

True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

statements and actions essential to understanding a character

bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

intuits is of significance to understanding the text

(Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

OR ndash

The dog bit the man baring its teeth

Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

o Me Up At Does

Me up at does

out of the floor

quietly Stare

a poisoned mouse

still who alive

is asking What

have I done that

You wouldnt have

In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

D Variety of sentence patterns

1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

(1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

setting plot details point of view diction

READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

impact shock anger awareness connections

contrasts mood images imagery tones

Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

but rather hywoamninnad

ffiimonm

snaafislaapffabuaain

nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

Contrast and Comparision

or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

Emphasis and Repetition

or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

Time

oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

in futur subsequently

Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

ound e de whenever op

eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

at the right before between

in the foregr on this sid besiposite

R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

Words that Identify

that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

(Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

sense of urgency specific examples

LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

1

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

1

AP English Languageand Composition

Synthesis Question

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

2

Format

bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

position on topic addressed in sources

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

3

Sources

bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

other visual

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

4

Types of Sources

bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

5

Synthesize the Argument

bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

6

Distinctions

bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

Source B etchellip)

2

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

7

Savvy Writers

bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

their argument

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

8

Six-Part Approach

bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

9

Readhellip and Analyze

bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

10

Generalize

bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

11

Converse

bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

12

Finesse

bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

3

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

13

Argue

bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

14

Conclusion

bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

How to improve your essay writing grade

1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

EXAMPLE

Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

Weaving To break away from the formula

1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

Top Ten Mistakes

Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

10 Apostrophes

Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

WRONG RIGHT

Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

WRONG RIGHT

The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

Moses leadership

Socrates wisdom

Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

8 Conjunction confusion

Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

WRONG RIGHT

Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

WRONG RIGHT

Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

6 Cannot

One word not two (not can not)

5 Affect and effect

Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

She affected the IRSs procedures

WRONG RIGHT

A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

4 Intents and purposes

Not intensive purposes

WRONG RIGHT

For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

3 Plural or singular

It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

WRONG RIGHT

The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

2 Principalprinciple

Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

WRONG RIGHT

Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

Heres how to remember the difference

principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

principle e for ethics or elementary rule

1 Itsits

Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

WRONG RIGHT

The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

Whos and whose have the same distinction

WRONG RIGHT

Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

(Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

Why it matters

In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

hink

  • AP Review coverdoc
  • APMCPacketpdf
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    • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
      • Questions on the whole passage
      • Questions on specific parts of the passage
        • Analysis of a paragraph
        • Analysis of words or phrases
          • Grammatical constructions
          • Antecedents
          • Relating one part of the passage to another part
            • Vocabulary in context
                • MCVocabdoc
                  • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                  • ToneStyle Words
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                        • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                        • promptpdf
                        • Annotating Textdoc
                        • Syntaxdoc
                          • SYNTAX
                            • Improving writing
                            • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                            • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                • Diction and Tonedoc
                                  • Diction and Tone
                                    • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                    • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                    • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                    • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                    • Argumentationdoc
                                    • Argumentvocabdoc
                                    • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                    • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                      • APSynandGenpdf
                                        • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                        • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                        • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                          • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                            • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                            • In a Nutshelldoc
                                              • 2005Bpdf
                                              • 2006Bpdf

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    1

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    1

    AP English Languageand Composition

    Multiple-Choice Questions

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    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    2

    Types of Questions

    bull Whole Passagebull Specific Parts of the Passage

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    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    3

    Format of MC Section

    bull There are typically four passagesbull There are on average 50-55 questionsbull You have 60 minutes to respondbull Accounts for 45 of your exam score

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    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    4

    Whole Passage Questions

    bull The diction in the passagehellipbull The passage most directly resembleshellipbull Which of the following best describes the

    passagehellipbull The intended audience for the passagehellip

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    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    5

    Specific Parts Questions

    bull Analysis of a paragraphrsquos stylebull Analysis of a primary purposebull Analysis of tonebull Analysis of words or phrasesbull Grammatical constructionsbull Antecedentsbull Relating one part of the passage to anotherbull Vocabulary in context

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    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    6

    Level of Difficulty

    bull MC questions vary in level of difficultybull Questions are NOT arranged by order of

    difficulty as in some other tests (PSAT SAT)

    2

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    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    7

    Answering the Questions

    bull Complete all the questions that you intend to answer on one passage before proceeding to the next one

    bull Only return to unanswered questions if you have enough time remaining

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    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    8

    New for 2007

    bull Recognize the contribution andor rhetorical purpose of footnotes used in a passage

    bull NOT required to have memorized any particular styles (for example MLA Chicago APA etc)

    bull Responsible for gleaning information from citations

    Types of Multiple-Choice Questions

    Questions on the whole passage Which of the following best describes the passage (A) An appeal for the readerrsquos sympathy and admiration (B) A brief overview of the methods that the author used (C) A summary of the principles according to which the author worked (D) A warning to the reader about the complexity of the ensuing work (E) A challenge to those who would doubt the accuracy of the authorrsquos work The diction in the passage is best described as (A) technical and abstruse (B) lofty and learned (C) pedestriasn (D) colloquial (E) scientific The intended audience for this passage is most probably (A) pious readers (B) educated adults (C) amateur writers (D) professional poets (E) book publishers

    The passage most directly resembles the speakerrsquos sense of Parkerrsquos style in its (A) juxtaposition of disparate elements (B) lyrical description of religion and art (C) blatant mimicry of other writersrsquo techniques (D) relentless insistence on a single theme (E) reliance on abbreviated staccato phrases

    Questions on specific parts of the passage Analysis of a paragraph

    One prominent stylistic characteristic of the first paragraph is the use of (A) metaphor (B) understatement (C) parallel syntax (D) personification (E) euphemism In the third paragraph the speakerrsquos primary purpose is to (A) assert her own qualifications (B) develop an argument for more honesty in writing (C) create an elaborate analogy (D) introduce a new topic for consideration (E) establish a hypothetical situation for analysis The tone of lines 59-72 can best be described as (A) tentative and prudent (B) detached and ironic (C) fervent and emphatic (D) defensive and self-aware (E) supportive and reassuring

    Analysis of words or phrases Which of the following best describes Johnsonrsquos use of the terms ldquoslave or

    sciencerdquo and ldquopioneer of literaturerdquo (lines 10-11) (A) The contrast between the two terms emphasizes the variety of possible responses to the

    dictionary (B) Both sensationalize the difficulty of the lexicographerrsquos research (C) The difference between the two terms illustrates the range of the lexicographerrsquos experience (D) Both exaggerate the publicrsquos lack of admiration for lexicographers (E) Each illustrated what is meant later in the sentence by ldquoLearning and Geniusrdquo The ldquoarrowrdquo in line 38 is a metaphorical reference to (A) unrequited love (B) the envy of other female writers (C) the self-doubt that writers sometimes experience (D) a painful memory (E) criticism from men

    Grammatical constructions

    In line 12 ldquowhordquo refers to (A) ldquounhappy mortalsrdquo (line8) (B) ldquomankindrdquo (line 9) (C) ldquopupilrdquo (line 10) (D) ldquothe slaverdquo (line 10) and ldquothe pionierrdquo (line 10) (E) ldquoLearning and Geniusrdquo (line 12) Which words when inserted between ldquobutrdquo and ldquocapablerdquo (lines 7-8) best clarify the meaning of the second sentence (A) as if (B) becoming more (C) by being (D) which were (E) that are

    Antecedents In line 17 ldquothis negative recompenserdquo refers to (A) freedom from criticism (B) gratitude from future generations (C) personal satisfaction (D) diligence as its own reward (E) absence of recognition

    Relating one part of the passage to another part

    How is the second paragraph related to the first (A) It qualifies the generalization made in the first paragraph by challenging the scope of the

    assertions (B) It refutes the assertion made in the first paragraph by presenting a contrary example (C) It continues the generalization made in the first paragraph by giving it a particular

    application (D) It supports the assertion made in the first paragraph by citing the testimony of authority (E) It reiterates the ideas in the first paragraph while noting a possible exception

    Vocabulary in context As used in line 46 ldquowantingrdquo is best interpreted to mean (A) desiring (B) capturing (C) lacking

    (D) faulting (E) hunting Use of Footnotes The purpose of footnote 4 is to inform the reader that the quotation in line 49

    (A) has been attributed to three different designers (B) was first cited in 1918 (C) was the inspiration for an exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum (D) is an article in The Machine Age in America 1981-1941 written by Harry N Abrams Inc

    Terminology from past AP Tests Multiple Choice Questions D Fettrow

    Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurposeabstraction action verb alliteration allusion (literary historical) analogy analysis anecdote antithesis appeal to authority apostrophe argument assertion characterization citing of authorities colloquial expression commentary comparison concrete examples context counterbalance critique criticism data deduction description developing an argument

    diction digression discussion distinguish emphasis enumerate enunciate expand on expository extending an example fallacy extending a metaphor generalizations hypothesizing illuminate illustrate image implies irony issues justify juxtaposition narration onomatopoeia overstatement oxymoron paradox

    parallelism parody pathos personal observation personification praise proposal pun qualifying rebuttal refute reveal scientific term simile speculation subordinate clause summary (ize) symbol thesis transitions undercut understatement unfold taking exception unqualified assertion verbal irony

    ToneStyle Wordsabashed abhorring abstract admiring adoring affectionate agitated ambiguous ambivalent angry annoyed antagonistic anxious apathetic apprehensive arch awkward biting blunt boring

    brusque candid celebratory choleric combative complex confusing contemplative confident conciliatory condescending contemptuous cynicism dangerous defensive derisive despairing desperate detached didactic

    diffident earnest effusive elegiac empathetic emphatic enigmatic entrapped erratic euphoric fatalistic fateful fervent flippant foreboding gloomy growth hopeful hopeless hostile

    Terminology from past AP Tests Multiple Choice Questions D Fettrow

    incisive indecisive inflammatory informative innovative insolent intimate introspective ironic isolated jocund jovial laudatory lethargic lugubrious lyrical mock solemnity modest naive

    nostalgic objective ornamental parochial passionate personal pessimistic pointed prudent reassuring refined reflective resigned resentful respectful reticent sanguine self-assured self-deprecating

    self-aware sentimental skeptical solemnity speculative straightforward struggling subtle supportive sympathetic suspicious tentative vitriolic vivid whimsical wistful wry zealous

    Grammatical Constructionantecedent subject of sentence

    parallel structure prepositions

    General Vocabularyadmonitions advisability amplifying appease ascertain awesome barrenness blatant burdensome concept conspicuous contradictions contrived depiction definitive digressive discredit discursive dispense with diverse dubious dyspeptic

    emitting entrepreneur erratic exalted exclusive fateful foreknowledge futility hostile inanimate interlocked intimidate invalid linguistic jeremiads magnanimity mimicry monarch nomenclature objective particular perspective

    pervasive phenomena preceding predecessors pretext profound regal relentless resolve sensibility serenity staccato subtle subjective surpass tentative treachery undaunted undercut unique unrequited unsophisticated

    Sample Footnote Questions 1 Which of the following is an accurate reading of footnote 2

    (A) An article by John F Kasson appears on page 427 of Engineering (B) ldquoMachine Tools at the Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo was published in New York (C) The article ldquoEngineeringrdquo can be found on page 427 of ldquoMachine Tools at the

    Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo (D) ldquoMachine Tools at the Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo is an article published in the May

    26 1876 issue of Engineering (E) Engineering is an article cited by John F Kasson

    2 The purpose of footnote 4 is to inform the reader that the quotation in line 49

    (A) has been attributed to three different designers (B) was first cited in 1918 (C) was the inspiration for an exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum (D) is an article in The Machine Age in America 1981-1941 written by Harry N

    Abrams Inc (E) appears in a book written by Wilson Pilgrim and Tashjian and published in 1986

    3 Taken as a whole the footnotes suggest that

    (A) the author of the passage wants the text to present highly technical material (B) the author of the passage relies heavily on Kassonrsquos book (C) very little was written about the topic of machinery and ornamentation prior to

    1976 (D) engineering magazines are an essential source for technical writers (E) except in rare cases it is best to use the latest published work when documenting

    an idea or concept

    Answer Key 1 D 2 E 3 B

    1

    AP English Languageand Composition

    Effective Essay Writing for Rhetorical Analysis and

    Argumentation

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    2

    The Prompt

    bull The most wonderful essay ever written CANNOT score in the high range if its content is OFF PROMPT

    bull Make sure you are reading the prompt correctly and addressing what it is asking of you

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    3

    Types of Prompts

    bull Analysis (RhetoricalArgument)bull Argumentationbull Synthesis

    ldquoStudents should read essay prompts as texts making certain they have understood what they are

    being asked to dordquo ~ M Elkins

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    4

    1 Read the Prompt

    bull Read the promptbull Read the prompt againbull Underline key wordsphrasesbull Number those elements that must be

    accomplished in the essaybull Do everything the prompt suggests

    address every part of the prompt

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    5

    Sample Prompts wNotation

    bull See Handoutsbull Annotate the Prompt to discover and stay

    focused on your TASK(S)bull Annotate the passage according to the

    TASK(S)bull Determine the Authorrsquos IntentPurpose in

    the passage

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    6

    Analysis

    bull Rhetorical ndash consider tone attitude point of view techniques diction imagery syntax language level

    bull Argument ndash consider tone attitude strategies emphasis diction imagery syntax appeals

    2

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    7

    General Analysis Terms(Recent Exams)

    bull ldquoCrafts the Textrdquobull Rhetorical Strategiesbull Most Compelling (ObservationArgument)bull Strategies Used (to Satirize)bull ldquoConveys the EffectFeelingetchelliprdquo

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    8

    Specific Terms

    bull Argumentsbull Assumptionsbull Sentence Structure Syntaxbull Tonebull Point of Viewbull Detail

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    9

    Consider Your Task

    bull Analyze techniquesbull ConveyDefine Attitudebull Achieve Purposebull Effect on AudienceReaderbull Reveal Differences in Purpose

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    10

    Authorial Intent

    bull Consider Purposebull Consider Audiencebull Consider Occasionbull What is the RHETORICAL purpose of the

    passagebull What techniques of LANGUAGE does the

    writer use to achieve that purpose

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    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    11

    2 Read the Passagebull Annotate as you readbull Identify subject and examples usedbull Mark diction ndash connotation and ironybull Use ofChoices in Imagery ndash parallel

    themes and symbolsbull Unusual Syntax andor Punctuationbull Connection andor Organization of ideas

    paragraphs sentences

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    12

    3 Organization

    bull Think before you writebull DO NOT begin by restating ie parroting

    the prompt word for wordbull Thesis need to be specific ndash how do the

    purpose and language interactbull Characterize the elements under analysis

    donrsquot just list them

    3

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    13

    Use DetailsExamples

    bull Quote from the passage liberallybull Use examples of diction details

    assumption figurative language etchellipbull Use short quotes ndash embed into your own

    statementsbull Always explain the writerrsquos purpose in

    including these devices

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    14

    Write about what you know

    bull You cannot possibly explore every rhetorical devicetechnique the author has used

    bull Select those for which you can explain the function and purpose

    bull Look for connections between the various devicesstrategies

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    15

    Writing the Body pararsquos

    bull Be thorough and specific ANALYZEbull Do not simply ldquopoint outrdquo strategiesbull Explain how they are usedbull Provide examples from the textbull Speculate as to why the author included

    them what is their effectbull How do they support the purpose

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    16

    Focus on Function

    bull Donrsquot guess about the name of a devicebull If you arenrsquot sure if the name is

    onomatopoeia or oxymoron or metonymy then donrsquot use the term

    bull But do include the ldquobuzzrdquo and ldquoloud silencerdquo and ldquothe crownrdquo hellip

    bull And then discuss HOW they contribute to the selection

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    17

    A Good Length

    bull No magic number of paragraphsbull Divide into paragraphs ndash donrsquot write one long

    paragraph ndash find natural breaks and indentbull Find a pattern of organization order of

    appearance words to phrases to paragraphshellipbull WATCH YOUR TIME ndash you want to include

    language from the WHOLE passage

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    18

    Style and Voice

    bull Write to express not to impress ndash use natural language

    bull Demonstrate that you understand style ndashshow how the author developed the selection to create a desired effect

    bull Maintain an economy of language ndash say much with few words - CONCISION

    4

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    19

    Style and Voice (contrsquod)

    bull Best to use third person (he she they) rather than first person

    bull Try to use present tense when discussing literaturewritten text

    bull Write legibly ndash the readers cannot reward you for what you do well if they cannot read it

    bull Let your work stand on its own merits ndash no pity notes (ldquoI was up all nightrdquo etchellip

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    20

    Verbs that contribute

    bull Chroniclesbull Delineatesbull Demonstratesbull Depictsbull Exemplifiesbull Featuresbull Illuminates

    bull Portraysbull Reflectsbull Specifiesbull Suggestsbull Illustratesbull DO NOT USE

    ndash goes shows tells

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    21

    Argumentation

    bull Defend ndash Support ndash agree completelybull Challenge ndash Dispute ndash disagree

    completelybull Qualify ndash means to agree or disagree

    except in certain circumstancesbull Choose the approach for which you can

    find the most evidence Take a stand Donrsquot straddle the fence

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    22

    Step One

    bull Determine the point of the author in the passage

    bull Develop you own position on that point (Agree Disagree Qualify)

    bull Choose the side for which you have the most detail for support

    bull This provides the details for you introduction

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    23

    Finding Evidence (details)

    bull If appropriate find details from a variety of sources

    bull Use historybull Use sciencebull Use literaturebull Use current eventsbull Use personal observation

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    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    24

    Be Specific with Details

    bull Reasons ndash use illustrationsbull Examples ndash include names titlesbull Incidents ndash include dates placesbull FactsStatistics ndash DO NOT make them upbull Personal Experience ndash donrsquot generalize

    use names places

    5

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    25

    Use Quality Detail

    bull Avoid inaccuracies ndash BE RIGHTbull Add as many specifics as possible ndash

    specific names specific dates specific titles

    bull Be coherent ndash include only RELEVANT detailshellipmore is NOT necessarily merrierhellipdonrsquot include details that donrsquot directly support your point

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    26

    Organize the Argument

    bull Write a strong thesis ndash state your position clearly

    bull Formulate 3-4 paragraphsbull Admit the opposition ndash acknowledge the

    opposing argumentbull Make your points relevant and accuratebull Add a conclusion

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    27

    Argument Intro

    bull Write a short intro in which youhellipbull Explain the position of the authorbull Present your position and any background

    the reader needs to knowbull Include a strong thesis ndash one that clearly

    presents the position (defend challenge qualify)

    bull Do NOT repeat the promptBroward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    28

    Concession

    bull Think of the argument the opposing side might propose

    bull Be willing to concede a pointbull Think of ways to acknowledge those

    arguments and refute thembull Might place after your introduction donrsquot

    spend more than two sentences

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    29

    The Body

    bull Start with the weakest and end with the strongest

    bull Divide your assertions into paragraphs with the appropriate support in each

    bull Apply effective transitions to match the organization of the content

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    30

    Conclusion

    bull Write a brief conclusion in which you return - with force - to your position

    bull Try to come full-circle ndash return to idea you usedmentioned in your introduction

    bull Consider analogies to your point in the introduction to avoid merely repeating the introduction

    6

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    31

    Voice and Style - redux

    bull Generally use a less formal style than with analysis essays

    bull Use first person if it seems naturalbull AVOID second person - ldquoyourdquobull Write naturally past tense is okaybull Use exact diction (avoid non-specific

    language ldquoonerdquo ldquothingrdquo etchellip)

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    32

    Answer the Question

    bull Look for key wordsbull Choose only one approachbull Use a variety of evidencebull Be specific

    The study of rhetoric stretches back to classical Greece Today the term is most commonly taken pejoratively meaning bombastic or exaggerated language But rhetoric also has a neutral meaningmdashrhetoric as the art or science of persuasion by means of stylistic and structural techniques The study of rhetoric is useful because it encourages us to think of writing (and speaking for that matter) as a series of strategic choices Every attempt to put words together includes choices about which words to use and how to arrange them In this sense all writers like it or not use rhetoric

    Even simplicity is a rhetorical and political choice George Orwell for instance was a master of the plain style and used it to devastating effect in his political journalism and novels like 1984 and

    Animal Farm (for more on the rhetoric of simplicity see Hugh Kenner ldquoThe Politics of the Plain Stylerdquo in Literary Journalism in the Twentieth Century ed Norman Sims [New York Oxford University Press 1990])

    Rhetoric is also useful because it encourages thinking about ones audience Different audiences require different rhetorical choices In the following section Ill list some of the most pertinent rhetorical techniques or tropes when writing for academic audiences

    Diction

    Perhaps the first rhetorical choice a writer makesmdashand all writers make this choice whether they realize it or notmdashis diction or what words to use Different words even if they ostensibly mean the same thing have different connotations as the poet W H Auden well understood And different audiences have different expectations about appropriate diction Academic writing requires a more formal diction than everyday talk or journalism and within academe writing in the natural sciences requires a more formal diction than writing in the humanities Im no great fan of formality in writing but on the other hand one does need to know and respect the conventions of academe and other professional forums for serious writing

    ORIGINAL REVISION

    The layers of dirt were not messed up at all The sedimentary levels were undisturbed

    In general the more specialized training a profession requires the more it develops its own jargon as a way of differentiating those who have acquired the proper training from those who have not Twist a policemans arm for instance and you still probably couldnt get him to say car or robber or gun or hit or saw long professional training has habituated him to vehicle alleged perpetrator firearm strike and observed This kind of Official Style diction is all around us Students tend to learn it as the epitome of adult discourse and to go too far in incorporating it into their own writing

    My general advice regarding diction is to prefer plain to fancy unless the scholarly field expects a particular word Since appropriate choices vary within specific disciplines and sometimes between individual scholars my suggestion to students is to locate model

    authors within their chosen fields and study those authors diction and other rhetorical strategies Your professors can help you find good models ask them to recommend respected scholars who write well There are always at least a few in every field

    Parallelism

    Parallelism is one of the most useful and flexible rhetorical techniques It refers to any structure which brings together parallel elements be these nouns adjectives verbs adverbs or larger structures Done well parallelism imparts grace and power to passage

    The princes strength is also his weakness his self-reliance is also isolation

    In Machiavellis world Sheldon Wolin observes moral ends have been replaced by ironies answers have been replaced by questions

    The characters are all watching one another forming theories about one another listening contriving

    One side sees Lincoln as a bold and shrewd leader sincerely committed to abolishing slavery the other sees him as an opportunistic politician concerned only to defend the union in any way possible

    Problems with faulty parallelism are very common because many people know (or think they know) what they want to say and dont scrutinize what they actually write In the following examples the parallel elements in the revisions are emphasized

    ORIGINAL REVISION

    Someone acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

    Acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

    Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and the need to get rid of sentimental attachments

    Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and ridding oneself of sentimental attachments

    Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and he tries to avoid marriage

    Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and tries to avoid marriage

    One frequent source of trouble is nested listsmdashwhen one sublist occurs within another list The writer of this sentence lost track and thought the final comma signaled the last item in the main list

    Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American

    Association of Colleges and Universities

    The trick is to recognize that this is actually a nested list and maintain parallelism within each list

    Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers and in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

    The list is technically okay but its complexity makes it a bit hard to read One could rearrange the list to emphasize different elements and allow some pauses

    Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and in targeted outlets like the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

    Note that among other changes the revision adds the word targeted which makes it easier to get the lists logic As ever revision is equal parts rewriting and rethinking

    One other problem with parallelism is fairly common though this is a stylistic rather than a grammatical lapse Writers often repeat too much in the parallel elements detracting from parallelisms economical elegance

    ORIGINAL REVISION

    Socrates led a private life as opposed to a public life

    Socrates led a private rather than a public life

    Parallelism can be employed in many different ways One spin is inversion or chiasmus in which parallel elements are carefully reversed for emphasis A famous example comes from President John F Kennedys inaugural address (1961)

    Ask not what your country can do for youmdashask what you can do for your country

    Inversion often gains power by focusing attention on the ends of sentences where readers and listeners naturally pause Kennedys example shows this as does the next example from a 19th-century religious leader defending his honesty despite his change of religion

    I have changed in many things in this I have not

    By putting the prepositional phrase in this at the beginning of the second clause the speaker is able to end on that emphatic final not

    Repetition

    Repetition is one of the most useful tools available to writers Repetition allows a writer or speaker to hammer home an idea image or relationship to force the reader or listener to pay attention Two classic examples of the incredible power of repetition are Mark Antonys They are all honorable men speech in Shakespeares Julius Caesar (32) and Martin Luther King Jrs I have a dream speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963

    But many writers especially young writers fear repetition apparently believing that repeating a word within a single sentence or short passage is bad style H W Fowler author of the old but still recommended Fowlers Modern English Usage (1st ed 1926) called this tendency elegant variation and observed There are few literary faults so widely prevalent

    Heres an example of a student working hard to avoid repeating words within a sentence It doesnt work well the revision repeats words and reads more easily

    ORIGINAL REVISION

    The test group got an average of seven test questions correct the mean for the control category was thirteen valid responses

    The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group averaged thirteen

    The originals nervous avoidance of repetition (for instance using first group and then category) makes it a bit hard to follow The revision by contrast is easier to follow because it repeats words and syntactical structures Note that repetition allows the writer to cut some repeated elements and focus attention on the key information the contrast

    Practiced writers will also employ all sorts of variations on this pattern of repetition

    The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group thirteen

    The test group averaged seven correct answers to the control groups thirteen

    Another example of a writer afraid of repetition

    ORIGINAL REVISION

    First the North Koreans made an incursion almost all the way down the peninsula then Americans and South Korean forces drove back into the north

    First the North Koreans drove almost all the way down the peninsula then American and South Korean forces drove back into the north

    In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

    Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

    We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

    Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

    Using tenses consistently

    Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

    ORIGINAL REVISION

    Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

    Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

    The historical present

    One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

    ORIGINAL REVISION

    Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

    Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

    Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

    But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

    ORIGINAL REVISION

    Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

    This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

    ORIGINAL REVISION

    A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

    A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

    But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

    Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

    Alliteration

    Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

    Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

    As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

    The rule of three

    This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

    Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

    doesnt try to soften his image

    A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

    The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

    Humor

    Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

    First and second person

    Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

    You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

    Questions and exclamations

    Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

    Placing emphasis

    If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

    These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

    ORIGINAL REVISION

    True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

    True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

    The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

    There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

    Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

    Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

    relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

    from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

    consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

    Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

    Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

    Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

    1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

    Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

    bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

    statements and actions essential to understanding a character

    bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

    bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

    bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

    choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

    bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

    yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

    intuits is of significance to understanding the text

    (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

    SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

    1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

    2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

    Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

    The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

    A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

    Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

    Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

    OR ndash

    The dog bit the man baring its teeth

    Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

    Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

    bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

    bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

    is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

    participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

    bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

    o Me Up At Does

    Me up at does

    out of the floor

    quietly Stare

    a poisoned mouse

    still who alive

    is asking What

    have I done that

    You wouldnt have

    In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

    The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

    Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

    A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

    B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

    1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

    D Variety of sentence patterns

    1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

    E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

    1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

    Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

    Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

    denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

    connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

    Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

    The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

    overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

    Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

    1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

    2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

    3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

    4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

    Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

    Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

    These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

    Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

    No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

    Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

    We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

    SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

    In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

    Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

    Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

    (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

    In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

    Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

    not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

    rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

    SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

    Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

    VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

    WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

    differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

    alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

    TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

    details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

    setting plot details point of view diction

    READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

    impact shock anger awareness connections

    contrasts mood images imagery tones

    Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

    Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

    but rather hywoamninnad

    ffiimonm

    snaafislaapffabuaain

    nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

    kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

    condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

    Contrast and Comparision

    or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

    Emphasis and Repetition

    or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

    ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

    Time

    oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

    rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

    in futur subsequently

    Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

    ound e de whenever op

    eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

    n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

    at the right before between

    in the foregr on this sid besiposite

    R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

    in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

    TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

    Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

    words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

    ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

    1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

    Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

    2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

    Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

    Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

    additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

    Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

    Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

    Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

    Words that Identify

    that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

    that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

    but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

    Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

    Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

    Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

    Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

    CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

    seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

    Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

    EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

    Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

    Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

    SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

    in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

    previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

    finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

    to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

    Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

    Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

    EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

    Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

    Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

    core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

    Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

    Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

    As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

    Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

    other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

    Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

    Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

    Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

    In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

    Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

    (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

    AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

    from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

    drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

    principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

    the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

    15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

    known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

    of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

    choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

    itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

    APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

    bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

    guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

    authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

    sense of urgency specific examples

    LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

    bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

    bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

    ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

    ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

    Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

    State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

    THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

    Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

    1

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    1

    AP English Languageand Composition

    Synthesis Question

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    2

    Format

    bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

    and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

    position on topic addressed in sources

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    3

    Sources

    bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

    other visual

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    4

    Types of Sources

    bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    5

    Synthesize the Argument

    bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

    bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

    bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

    bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    6

    Distinctions

    bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

    Source B etchellip)

    2

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    7

    Savvy Writers

    bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

    their argument

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    8

    Six-Part Approach

    bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    9

    Readhellip and Analyze

    bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

    makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

    assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    10

    Generalize

    bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

    bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

    bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

    bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    11

    Converse

    bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

    bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

    bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    12

    Finesse

    bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

    bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

    bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

    3

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    13

    Argue

    bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

    takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

    14

    Conclusion

    bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

    position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

    THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

    WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

    1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

    You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

    3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

    EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

    How to improve your essay writing grade

    1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

    exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

    Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

    The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

    EXAMPLE

    Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

    If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

    1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

    concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

    Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

    Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

    Weaving To break away from the formula

    1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

    2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

    3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

    4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

    EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

    1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

    2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

    earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

    3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

    4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

    5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

    ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

    6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

    7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

    8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

    his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

    work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

    your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

    develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

    bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

    1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

    Top Ten Mistakes

    Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

    An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

    Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

    And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

    10 Apostrophes

    Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

    WRONG RIGHT

    Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

    Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

    Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

    Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

    Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

    WRONG RIGHT

    The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

    The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

    For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

    Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

    There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

    Moses leadership

    Socrates wisdom

    Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

    Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

    8 Conjunction confusion

    Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

    WRONG RIGHT

    Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

    Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

    Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

    Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

    Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

    Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

    WRONG RIGHT

    Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

    Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

    6 Cannot

    One word not two (not can not)

    5 Affect and effect

    Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

    She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

    For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

    She affected the IRSs procedures

    WRONG RIGHT

    A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

    A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

    4 Intents and purposes

    Not intensive purposes

    WRONG RIGHT

    For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

    For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

    3 Plural or singular

    It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

    WRONG RIGHT

    The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

    The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

    Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

    2 Principalprinciple

    Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

    WRONG RIGHT

    Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

    Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

    Heres how to remember the difference

    principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

    principle e for ethics or elementary rule

    1 Itsits

    Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

    WRONG RIGHT

    The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

    The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

    Whos and whose have the same distinction

    WRONG RIGHT

    Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

    Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

    (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

    When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

    Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

    Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

    These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

    1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

    2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

    3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

    4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

    5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

    5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

    7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

    8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

    9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

    10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

    Why it matters

    In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

    What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

    Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

    hink

    • AP Review coverdoc
    • APMCPacketpdf
      • AP MC Reviewpdf
      • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
        • Questions on the whole passage
        • Questions on specific parts of the passage
          • Analysis of a paragraph
          • Analysis of words or phrases
            • Grammatical constructions
            • Antecedents
            • Relating one part of the passage to another part
              • Vocabulary in context
                  • MCVocabdoc
                    • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                    • ToneStyle Words
                    • Grammatical Construction
                    • General Vocabulary
                      • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                      • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                      • ScorCalculpdf
                        • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                          • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                          • Rhetoricdoc
                          • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                          • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                          • promptpdf
                          • Annotating Textdoc
                          • Syntaxdoc
                            • SYNTAX
                              • Improving writing
                              • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                              • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                  • Diction and Tonedoc
                                    • Diction and Tone
                                      • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                      • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                      • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                      • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                      • Argumentationdoc
                                      • Argumentvocabdoc
                                      • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                      • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                        • APSynandGenpdf
                                          • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                          • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                          • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                            • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                              • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                              • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                • 2005Bpdf
                                                • 2006Bpdf

      1

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      1

      AP English Languageand Composition

      Multiple-Choice Questions

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      2

      Types of Questions

      bull Whole Passagebull Specific Parts of the Passage

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      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      3

      Format of MC Section

      bull There are typically four passagesbull There are on average 50-55 questionsbull You have 60 minutes to respondbull Accounts for 45 of your exam score

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      4

      Whole Passage Questions

      bull The diction in the passagehellipbull The passage most directly resembleshellipbull Which of the following best describes the

      passagehellipbull The intended audience for the passagehellip

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      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      5

      Specific Parts Questions

      bull Analysis of a paragraphrsquos stylebull Analysis of a primary purposebull Analysis of tonebull Analysis of words or phrasesbull Grammatical constructionsbull Antecedentsbull Relating one part of the passage to anotherbull Vocabulary in context

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      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      6

      Level of Difficulty

      bull MC questions vary in level of difficultybull Questions are NOT arranged by order of

      difficulty as in some other tests (PSAT SAT)

      2

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      7

      Answering the Questions

      bull Complete all the questions that you intend to answer on one passage before proceeding to the next one

      bull Only return to unanswered questions if you have enough time remaining

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      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      8

      New for 2007

      bull Recognize the contribution andor rhetorical purpose of footnotes used in a passage

      bull NOT required to have memorized any particular styles (for example MLA Chicago APA etc)

      bull Responsible for gleaning information from citations

      Types of Multiple-Choice Questions

      Questions on the whole passage Which of the following best describes the passage (A) An appeal for the readerrsquos sympathy and admiration (B) A brief overview of the methods that the author used (C) A summary of the principles according to which the author worked (D) A warning to the reader about the complexity of the ensuing work (E) A challenge to those who would doubt the accuracy of the authorrsquos work The diction in the passage is best described as (A) technical and abstruse (B) lofty and learned (C) pedestriasn (D) colloquial (E) scientific The intended audience for this passage is most probably (A) pious readers (B) educated adults (C) amateur writers (D) professional poets (E) book publishers

      The passage most directly resembles the speakerrsquos sense of Parkerrsquos style in its (A) juxtaposition of disparate elements (B) lyrical description of religion and art (C) blatant mimicry of other writersrsquo techniques (D) relentless insistence on a single theme (E) reliance on abbreviated staccato phrases

      Questions on specific parts of the passage Analysis of a paragraph

      One prominent stylistic characteristic of the first paragraph is the use of (A) metaphor (B) understatement (C) parallel syntax (D) personification (E) euphemism In the third paragraph the speakerrsquos primary purpose is to (A) assert her own qualifications (B) develop an argument for more honesty in writing (C) create an elaborate analogy (D) introduce a new topic for consideration (E) establish a hypothetical situation for analysis The tone of lines 59-72 can best be described as (A) tentative and prudent (B) detached and ironic (C) fervent and emphatic (D) defensive and self-aware (E) supportive and reassuring

      Analysis of words or phrases Which of the following best describes Johnsonrsquos use of the terms ldquoslave or

      sciencerdquo and ldquopioneer of literaturerdquo (lines 10-11) (A) The contrast between the two terms emphasizes the variety of possible responses to the

      dictionary (B) Both sensationalize the difficulty of the lexicographerrsquos research (C) The difference between the two terms illustrates the range of the lexicographerrsquos experience (D) Both exaggerate the publicrsquos lack of admiration for lexicographers (E) Each illustrated what is meant later in the sentence by ldquoLearning and Geniusrdquo The ldquoarrowrdquo in line 38 is a metaphorical reference to (A) unrequited love (B) the envy of other female writers (C) the self-doubt that writers sometimes experience (D) a painful memory (E) criticism from men

      Grammatical constructions

      In line 12 ldquowhordquo refers to (A) ldquounhappy mortalsrdquo (line8) (B) ldquomankindrdquo (line 9) (C) ldquopupilrdquo (line 10) (D) ldquothe slaverdquo (line 10) and ldquothe pionierrdquo (line 10) (E) ldquoLearning and Geniusrdquo (line 12) Which words when inserted between ldquobutrdquo and ldquocapablerdquo (lines 7-8) best clarify the meaning of the second sentence (A) as if (B) becoming more (C) by being (D) which were (E) that are

      Antecedents In line 17 ldquothis negative recompenserdquo refers to (A) freedom from criticism (B) gratitude from future generations (C) personal satisfaction (D) diligence as its own reward (E) absence of recognition

      Relating one part of the passage to another part

      How is the second paragraph related to the first (A) It qualifies the generalization made in the first paragraph by challenging the scope of the

      assertions (B) It refutes the assertion made in the first paragraph by presenting a contrary example (C) It continues the generalization made in the first paragraph by giving it a particular

      application (D) It supports the assertion made in the first paragraph by citing the testimony of authority (E) It reiterates the ideas in the first paragraph while noting a possible exception

      Vocabulary in context As used in line 46 ldquowantingrdquo is best interpreted to mean (A) desiring (B) capturing (C) lacking

      (D) faulting (E) hunting Use of Footnotes The purpose of footnote 4 is to inform the reader that the quotation in line 49

      (A) has been attributed to three different designers (B) was first cited in 1918 (C) was the inspiration for an exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum (D) is an article in The Machine Age in America 1981-1941 written by Harry N Abrams Inc

      Terminology from past AP Tests Multiple Choice Questions D Fettrow

      Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurposeabstraction action verb alliteration allusion (literary historical) analogy analysis anecdote antithesis appeal to authority apostrophe argument assertion characterization citing of authorities colloquial expression commentary comparison concrete examples context counterbalance critique criticism data deduction description developing an argument

      diction digression discussion distinguish emphasis enumerate enunciate expand on expository extending an example fallacy extending a metaphor generalizations hypothesizing illuminate illustrate image implies irony issues justify juxtaposition narration onomatopoeia overstatement oxymoron paradox

      parallelism parody pathos personal observation personification praise proposal pun qualifying rebuttal refute reveal scientific term simile speculation subordinate clause summary (ize) symbol thesis transitions undercut understatement unfold taking exception unqualified assertion verbal irony

      ToneStyle Wordsabashed abhorring abstract admiring adoring affectionate agitated ambiguous ambivalent angry annoyed antagonistic anxious apathetic apprehensive arch awkward biting blunt boring

      brusque candid celebratory choleric combative complex confusing contemplative confident conciliatory condescending contemptuous cynicism dangerous defensive derisive despairing desperate detached didactic

      diffident earnest effusive elegiac empathetic emphatic enigmatic entrapped erratic euphoric fatalistic fateful fervent flippant foreboding gloomy growth hopeful hopeless hostile

      Terminology from past AP Tests Multiple Choice Questions D Fettrow

      incisive indecisive inflammatory informative innovative insolent intimate introspective ironic isolated jocund jovial laudatory lethargic lugubrious lyrical mock solemnity modest naive

      nostalgic objective ornamental parochial passionate personal pessimistic pointed prudent reassuring refined reflective resigned resentful respectful reticent sanguine self-assured self-deprecating

      self-aware sentimental skeptical solemnity speculative straightforward struggling subtle supportive sympathetic suspicious tentative vitriolic vivid whimsical wistful wry zealous

      Grammatical Constructionantecedent subject of sentence

      parallel structure prepositions

      General Vocabularyadmonitions advisability amplifying appease ascertain awesome barrenness blatant burdensome concept conspicuous contradictions contrived depiction definitive digressive discredit discursive dispense with diverse dubious dyspeptic

      emitting entrepreneur erratic exalted exclusive fateful foreknowledge futility hostile inanimate interlocked intimidate invalid linguistic jeremiads magnanimity mimicry monarch nomenclature objective particular perspective

      pervasive phenomena preceding predecessors pretext profound regal relentless resolve sensibility serenity staccato subtle subjective surpass tentative treachery undaunted undercut unique unrequited unsophisticated

      Sample Footnote Questions 1 Which of the following is an accurate reading of footnote 2

      (A) An article by John F Kasson appears on page 427 of Engineering (B) ldquoMachine Tools at the Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo was published in New York (C) The article ldquoEngineeringrdquo can be found on page 427 of ldquoMachine Tools at the

      Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo (D) ldquoMachine Tools at the Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo is an article published in the May

      26 1876 issue of Engineering (E) Engineering is an article cited by John F Kasson

      2 The purpose of footnote 4 is to inform the reader that the quotation in line 49

      (A) has been attributed to three different designers (B) was first cited in 1918 (C) was the inspiration for an exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum (D) is an article in The Machine Age in America 1981-1941 written by Harry N

      Abrams Inc (E) appears in a book written by Wilson Pilgrim and Tashjian and published in 1986

      3 Taken as a whole the footnotes suggest that

      (A) the author of the passage wants the text to present highly technical material (B) the author of the passage relies heavily on Kassonrsquos book (C) very little was written about the topic of machinery and ornamentation prior to

      1976 (D) engineering magazines are an essential source for technical writers (E) except in rare cases it is best to use the latest published work when documenting

      an idea or concept

      Answer Key 1 D 2 E 3 B

      1

      AP English Languageand Composition

      Effective Essay Writing for Rhetorical Analysis and

      Argumentation

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      2

      The Prompt

      bull The most wonderful essay ever written CANNOT score in the high range if its content is OFF PROMPT

      bull Make sure you are reading the prompt correctly and addressing what it is asking of you

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      3

      Types of Prompts

      bull Analysis (RhetoricalArgument)bull Argumentationbull Synthesis

      ldquoStudents should read essay prompts as texts making certain they have understood what they are

      being asked to dordquo ~ M Elkins

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      4

      1 Read the Prompt

      bull Read the promptbull Read the prompt againbull Underline key wordsphrasesbull Number those elements that must be

      accomplished in the essaybull Do everything the prompt suggests

      address every part of the prompt

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      5

      Sample Prompts wNotation

      bull See Handoutsbull Annotate the Prompt to discover and stay

      focused on your TASK(S)bull Annotate the passage according to the

      TASK(S)bull Determine the Authorrsquos IntentPurpose in

      the passage

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      6

      Analysis

      bull Rhetorical ndash consider tone attitude point of view techniques diction imagery syntax language level

      bull Argument ndash consider tone attitude strategies emphasis diction imagery syntax appeals

      2

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      7

      General Analysis Terms(Recent Exams)

      bull ldquoCrafts the Textrdquobull Rhetorical Strategiesbull Most Compelling (ObservationArgument)bull Strategies Used (to Satirize)bull ldquoConveys the EffectFeelingetchelliprdquo

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      8

      Specific Terms

      bull Argumentsbull Assumptionsbull Sentence Structure Syntaxbull Tonebull Point of Viewbull Detail

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      9

      Consider Your Task

      bull Analyze techniquesbull ConveyDefine Attitudebull Achieve Purposebull Effect on AudienceReaderbull Reveal Differences in Purpose

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      10

      Authorial Intent

      bull Consider Purposebull Consider Audiencebull Consider Occasionbull What is the RHETORICAL purpose of the

      passagebull What techniques of LANGUAGE does the

      writer use to achieve that purpose

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      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      11

      2 Read the Passagebull Annotate as you readbull Identify subject and examples usedbull Mark diction ndash connotation and ironybull Use ofChoices in Imagery ndash parallel

      themes and symbolsbull Unusual Syntax andor Punctuationbull Connection andor Organization of ideas

      paragraphs sentences

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      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      12

      3 Organization

      bull Think before you writebull DO NOT begin by restating ie parroting

      the prompt word for wordbull Thesis need to be specific ndash how do the

      purpose and language interactbull Characterize the elements under analysis

      donrsquot just list them

      3

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      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      13

      Use DetailsExamples

      bull Quote from the passage liberallybull Use examples of diction details

      assumption figurative language etchellipbull Use short quotes ndash embed into your own

      statementsbull Always explain the writerrsquos purpose in

      including these devices

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      14

      Write about what you know

      bull You cannot possibly explore every rhetorical devicetechnique the author has used

      bull Select those for which you can explain the function and purpose

      bull Look for connections between the various devicesstrategies

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      15

      Writing the Body pararsquos

      bull Be thorough and specific ANALYZEbull Do not simply ldquopoint outrdquo strategiesbull Explain how they are usedbull Provide examples from the textbull Speculate as to why the author included

      them what is their effectbull How do they support the purpose

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      16

      Focus on Function

      bull Donrsquot guess about the name of a devicebull If you arenrsquot sure if the name is

      onomatopoeia or oxymoron or metonymy then donrsquot use the term

      bull But do include the ldquobuzzrdquo and ldquoloud silencerdquo and ldquothe crownrdquo hellip

      bull And then discuss HOW they contribute to the selection

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      17

      A Good Length

      bull No magic number of paragraphsbull Divide into paragraphs ndash donrsquot write one long

      paragraph ndash find natural breaks and indentbull Find a pattern of organization order of

      appearance words to phrases to paragraphshellipbull WATCH YOUR TIME ndash you want to include

      language from the WHOLE passage

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      18

      Style and Voice

      bull Write to express not to impress ndash use natural language

      bull Demonstrate that you understand style ndashshow how the author developed the selection to create a desired effect

      bull Maintain an economy of language ndash say much with few words - CONCISION

      4

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      19

      Style and Voice (contrsquod)

      bull Best to use third person (he she they) rather than first person

      bull Try to use present tense when discussing literaturewritten text

      bull Write legibly ndash the readers cannot reward you for what you do well if they cannot read it

      bull Let your work stand on its own merits ndash no pity notes (ldquoI was up all nightrdquo etchellip

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      20

      Verbs that contribute

      bull Chroniclesbull Delineatesbull Demonstratesbull Depictsbull Exemplifiesbull Featuresbull Illuminates

      bull Portraysbull Reflectsbull Specifiesbull Suggestsbull Illustratesbull DO NOT USE

      ndash goes shows tells

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      21

      Argumentation

      bull Defend ndash Support ndash agree completelybull Challenge ndash Dispute ndash disagree

      completelybull Qualify ndash means to agree or disagree

      except in certain circumstancesbull Choose the approach for which you can

      find the most evidence Take a stand Donrsquot straddle the fence

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      22

      Step One

      bull Determine the point of the author in the passage

      bull Develop you own position on that point (Agree Disagree Qualify)

      bull Choose the side for which you have the most detail for support

      bull This provides the details for you introduction

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      23

      Finding Evidence (details)

      bull If appropriate find details from a variety of sources

      bull Use historybull Use sciencebull Use literaturebull Use current eventsbull Use personal observation

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      24

      Be Specific with Details

      bull Reasons ndash use illustrationsbull Examples ndash include names titlesbull Incidents ndash include dates placesbull FactsStatistics ndash DO NOT make them upbull Personal Experience ndash donrsquot generalize

      use names places

      5

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      25

      Use Quality Detail

      bull Avoid inaccuracies ndash BE RIGHTbull Add as many specifics as possible ndash

      specific names specific dates specific titles

      bull Be coherent ndash include only RELEVANT detailshellipmore is NOT necessarily merrierhellipdonrsquot include details that donrsquot directly support your point

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      26

      Organize the Argument

      bull Write a strong thesis ndash state your position clearly

      bull Formulate 3-4 paragraphsbull Admit the opposition ndash acknowledge the

      opposing argumentbull Make your points relevant and accuratebull Add a conclusion

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      27

      Argument Intro

      bull Write a short intro in which youhellipbull Explain the position of the authorbull Present your position and any background

      the reader needs to knowbull Include a strong thesis ndash one that clearly

      presents the position (defend challenge qualify)

      bull Do NOT repeat the promptBroward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      28

      Concession

      bull Think of the argument the opposing side might propose

      bull Be willing to concede a pointbull Think of ways to acknowledge those

      arguments and refute thembull Might place after your introduction donrsquot

      spend more than two sentences

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      29

      The Body

      bull Start with the weakest and end with the strongest

      bull Divide your assertions into paragraphs with the appropriate support in each

      bull Apply effective transitions to match the organization of the content

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      30

      Conclusion

      bull Write a brief conclusion in which you return - with force - to your position

      bull Try to come full-circle ndash return to idea you usedmentioned in your introduction

      bull Consider analogies to your point in the introduction to avoid merely repeating the introduction

      6

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      31

      Voice and Style - redux

      bull Generally use a less formal style than with analysis essays

      bull Use first person if it seems naturalbull AVOID second person - ldquoyourdquobull Write naturally past tense is okaybull Use exact diction (avoid non-specific

      language ldquoonerdquo ldquothingrdquo etchellip)

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      32

      Answer the Question

      bull Look for key wordsbull Choose only one approachbull Use a variety of evidencebull Be specific

      The study of rhetoric stretches back to classical Greece Today the term is most commonly taken pejoratively meaning bombastic or exaggerated language But rhetoric also has a neutral meaningmdashrhetoric as the art or science of persuasion by means of stylistic and structural techniques The study of rhetoric is useful because it encourages us to think of writing (and speaking for that matter) as a series of strategic choices Every attempt to put words together includes choices about which words to use and how to arrange them In this sense all writers like it or not use rhetoric

      Even simplicity is a rhetorical and political choice George Orwell for instance was a master of the plain style and used it to devastating effect in his political journalism and novels like 1984 and

      Animal Farm (for more on the rhetoric of simplicity see Hugh Kenner ldquoThe Politics of the Plain Stylerdquo in Literary Journalism in the Twentieth Century ed Norman Sims [New York Oxford University Press 1990])

      Rhetoric is also useful because it encourages thinking about ones audience Different audiences require different rhetorical choices In the following section Ill list some of the most pertinent rhetorical techniques or tropes when writing for academic audiences

      Diction

      Perhaps the first rhetorical choice a writer makesmdashand all writers make this choice whether they realize it or notmdashis diction or what words to use Different words even if they ostensibly mean the same thing have different connotations as the poet W H Auden well understood And different audiences have different expectations about appropriate diction Academic writing requires a more formal diction than everyday talk or journalism and within academe writing in the natural sciences requires a more formal diction than writing in the humanities Im no great fan of formality in writing but on the other hand one does need to know and respect the conventions of academe and other professional forums for serious writing

      ORIGINAL REVISION

      The layers of dirt were not messed up at all The sedimentary levels were undisturbed

      In general the more specialized training a profession requires the more it develops its own jargon as a way of differentiating those who have acquired the proper training from those who have not Twist a policemans arm for instance and you still probably couldnt get him to say car or robber or gun or hit or saw long professional training has habituated him to vehicle alleged perpetrator firearm strike and observed This kind of Official Style diction is all around us Students tend to learn it as the epitome of adult discourse and to go too far in incorporating it into their own writing

      My general advice regarding diction is to prefer plain to fancy unless the scholarly field expects a particular word Since appropriate choices vary within specific disciplines and sometimes between individual scholars my suggestion to students is to locate model

      authors within their chosen fields and study those authors diction and other rhetorical strategies Your professors can help you find good models ask them to recommend respected scholars who write well There are always at least a few in every field

      Parallelism

      Parallelism is one of the most useful and flexible rhetorical techniques It refers to any structure which brings together parallel elements be these nouns adjectives verbs adverbs or larger structures Done well parallelism imparts grace and power to passage

      The princes strength is also his weakness his self-reliance is also isolation

      In Machiavellis world Sheldon Wolin observes moral ends have been replaced by ironies answers have been replaced by questions

      The characters are all watching one another forming theories about one another listening contriving

      One side sees Lincoln as a bold and shrewd leader sincerely committed to abolishing slavery the other sees him as an opportunistic politician concerned only to defend the union in any way possible

      Problems with faulty parallelism are very common because many people know (or think they know) what they want to say and dont scrutinize what they actually write In the following examples the parallel elements in the revisions are emphasized

      ORIGINAL REVISION

      Someone acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

      Acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

      Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and the need to get rid of sentimental attachments

      Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and ridding oneself of sentimental attachments

      Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and he tries to avoid marriage

      Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and tries to avoid marriage

      One frequent source of trouble is nested listsmdashwhen one sublist occurs within another list The writer of this sentence lost track and thought the final comma signaled the last item in the main list

      Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American

      Association of Colleges and Universities

      The trick is to recognize that this is actually a nested list and maintain parallelism within each list

      Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers and in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

      The list is technically okay but its complexity makes it a bit hard to read One could rearrange the list to emphasize different elements and allow some pauses

      Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and in targeted outlets like the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

      Note that among other changes the revision adds the word targeted which makes it easier to get the lists logic As ever revision is equal parts rewriting and rethinking

      One other problem with parallelism is fairly common though this is a stylistic rather than a grammatical lapse Writers often repeat too much in the parallel elements detracting from parallelisms economical elegance

      ORIGINAL REVISION

      Socrates led a private life as opposed to a public life

      Socrates led a private rather than a public life

      Parallelism can be employed in many different ways One spin is inversion or chiasmus in which parallel elements are carefully reversed for emphasis A famous example comes from President John F Kennedys inaugural address (1961)

      Ask not what your country can do for youmdashask what you can do for your country

      Inversion often gains power by focusing attention on the ends of sentences where readers and listeners naturally pause Kennedys example shows this as does the next example from a 19th-century religious leader defending his honesty despite his change of religion

      I have changed in many things in this I have not

      By putting the prepositional phrase in this at the beginning of the second clause the speaker is able to end on that emphatic final not

      Repetition

      Repetition is one of the most useful tools available to writers Repetition allows a writer or speaker to hammer home an idea image or relationship to force the reader or listener to pay attention Two classic examples of the incredible power of repetition are Mark Antonys They are all honorable men speech in Shakespeares Julius Caesar (32) and Martin Luther King Jrs I have a dream speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963

      But many writers especially young writers fear repetition apparently believing that repeating a word within a single sentence or short passage is bad style H W Fowler author of the old but still recommended Fowlers Modern English Usage (1st ed 1926) called this tendency elegant variation and observed There are few literary faults so widely prevalent

      Heres an example of a student working hard to avoid repeating words within a sentence It doesnt work well the revision repeats words and reads more easily

      ORIGINAL REVISION

      The test group got an average of seven test questions correct the mean for the control category was thirteen valid responses

      The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group averaged thirteen

      The originals nervous avoidance of repetition (for instance using first group and then category) makes it a bit hard to follow The revision by contrast is easier to follow because it repeats words and syntactical structures Note that repetition allows the writer to cut some repeated elements and focus attention on the key information the contrast

      Practiced writers will also employ all sorts of variations on this pattern of repetition

      The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group thirteen

      The test group averaged seven correct answers to the control groups thirteen

      Another example of a writer afraid of repetition

      ORIGINAL REVISION

      First the North Koreans made an incursion almost all the way down the peninsula then Americans and South Korean forces drove back into the north

      First the North Koreans drove almost all the way down the peninsula then American and South Korean forces drove back into the north

      In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

      Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

      We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

      Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

      Using tenses consistently

      Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

      ORIGINAL REVISION

      Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

      Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

      The historical present

      One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

      ORIGINAL REVISION

      Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

      Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

      Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

      But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

      ORIGINAL REVISION

      Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

      This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

      ORIGINAL REVISION

      A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

      A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

      But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

      Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

      Alliteration

      Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

      Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

      As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

      The rule of three

      This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

      Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

      doesnt try to soften his image

      A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

      The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

      Humor

      Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

      First and second person

      Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

      You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

      Questions and exclamations

      Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

      Placing emphasis

      If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

      These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

      ORIGINAL REVISION

      True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

      True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

      The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

      There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

      Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

      Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

      relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

      from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

      consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

      Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

      Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

      Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

      1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

      Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

      bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

      statements and actions essential to understanding a character

      bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

      bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

      bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

      choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

      bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

      yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

      intuits is of significance to understanding the text

      (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

      SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

      1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

      2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

      Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

      The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

      A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

      Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

      Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

      OR ndash

      The dog bit the man baring its teeth

      Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

      Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

      bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

      bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

      is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

      participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

      bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

      o Me Up At Does

      Me up at does

      out of the floor

      quietly Stare

      a poisoned mouse

      still who alive

      is asking What

      have I done that

      You wouldnt have

      In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

      The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

      Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

      A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

      B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

      1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

      D Variety of sentence patterns

      1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

      E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

      1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

      Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

      Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

      denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

      connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

      Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

      The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

      overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

      Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

      1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

      2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

      3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

      4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

      Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

      Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

      These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

      Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

      No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

      Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

      We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

      SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

      In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

      Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

      Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

      (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

      In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

      Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

      not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

      rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

      SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

      Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

      VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

      WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

      differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

      alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

      TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

      details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

      setting plot details point of view diction

      READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

      impact shock anger awareness connections

      contrasts mood images imagery tones

      Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

      Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

      but rather hywoamninnad

      ffiimonm

      snaafislaapffabuaain

      nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

      kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

      condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

      Contrast and Comparision

      or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

      Emphasis and Repetition

      or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

      ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

      Time

      oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

      rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

      in futur subsequently

      Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

      ound e de whenever op

      eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

      n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

      at the right before between

      in the foregr on this sid besiposite

      R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

      in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

      TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

      Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

      words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

      ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

      1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

      Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

      2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

      Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

      Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

      additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

      Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

      Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

      Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

      Words that Identify

      that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

      that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

      but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

      Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

      Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

      Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

      Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

      CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

      seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

      Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

      EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

      Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

      Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

      SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

      in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

      previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

      finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

      to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

      Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

      Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

      EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

      Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

      Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

      core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

      Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

      Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

      As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

      Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

      other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

      Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

      Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

      Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

      In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

      Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

      (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

      AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

      from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

      drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

      principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

      the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

      15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

      known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

      of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

      choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

      itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

      APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

      bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

      guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

      authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

      sense of urgency specific examples

      LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

      bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

      bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

      ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

      ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

      Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

      State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

      THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

      Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

      1

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      1

      AP English Languageand Composition

      Synthesis Question

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      2

      Format

      bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

      and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

      position on topic addressed in sources

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      3

      Sources

      bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

      other visual

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      4

      Types of Sources

      bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      5

      Synthesize the Argument

      bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

      bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

      bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

      bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      6

      Distinctions

      bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

      Source B etchellip)

      2

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      7

      Savvy Writers

      bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

      their argument

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      8

      Six-Part Approach

      bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      9

      Readhellip and Analyze

      bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

      makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

      assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      10

      Generalize

      bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

      bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

      bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

      bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      11

      Converse

      bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

      bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

      bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      12

      Finesse

      bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

      bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

      bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

      3

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      13

      Argue

      bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

      takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

      14

      Conclusion

      bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

      position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

      THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

      WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

      1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

      You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

      3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

      EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

      How to improve your essay writing grade

      1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

      exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

      Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

      The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

      EXAMPLE

      Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

      If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

      1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

      concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

      Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

      Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

      Weaving To break away from the formula

      1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

      2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

      3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

      4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

      EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

      1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

      2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

      earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

      3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

      4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

      5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

      ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

      6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

      7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

      8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

      his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

      work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

      your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

      develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

      bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

      1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

      Top Ten Mistakes

      Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

      An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

      Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

      And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

      10 Apostrophes

      Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

      WRONG RIGHT

      Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

      Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

      Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

      Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

      Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

      WRONG RIGHT

      The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

      The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

      For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

      Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

      There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

      Moses leadership

      Socrates wisdom

      Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

      Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

      8 Conjunction confusion

      Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

      WRONG RIGHT

      Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

      Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

      Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

      Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

      Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

      Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

      WRONG RIGHT

      Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

      Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

      6 Cannot

      One word not two (not can not)

      5 Affect and effect

      Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

      She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

      For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

      She affected the IRSs procedures

      WRONG RIGHT

      A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

      A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

      4 Intents and purposes

      Not intensive purposes

      WRONG RIGHT

      For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

      For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

      3 Plural or singular

      It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

      WRONG RIGHT

      The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

      The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

      Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

      2 Principalprinciple

      Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

      WRONG RIGHT

      Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

      Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

      Heres how to remember the difference

      principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

      principle e for ethics or elementary rule

      1 Itsits

      Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

      WRONG RIGHT

      The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

      The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

      Whos and whose have the same distinction

      WRONG RIGHT

      Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

      Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

      (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

      When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

      Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

      Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

      These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

      1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

      2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

      3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

      4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

      5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

      5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

      7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

      8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

      9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

      10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

      Why it matters

      In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

      What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

      Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

      hink

      • AP Review coverdoc
      • APMCPacketpdf
        • AP MC Reviewpdf
        • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
          • Questions on the whole passage
          • Questions on specific parts of the passage
            • Analysis of a paragraph
            • Analysis of words or phrases
              • Grammatical constructions
              • Antecedents
              • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                • Vocabulary in context
                    • MCVocabdoc
                      • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                      • ToneStyle Words
                      • Grammatical Construction
                      • General Vocabulary
                        • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                        • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                        • ScorCalculpdf
                          • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                            • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                            • Rhetoricdoc
                            • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                            • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                            • promptpdf
                            • Annotating Textdoc
                            • Syntaxdoc
                              • SYNTAX
                                • Improving writing
                                • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                    • Diction and Tonedoc
                                      • Diction and Tone
                                        • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                        • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                        • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                        • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                        • Argumentationdoc
                                        • Argumentvocabdoc
                                        • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                        • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                          • APSynandGenpdf
                                            • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                            • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                            • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                              • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                  • 2005Bpdf
                                                  • 2006Bpdf

        2

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        7

        Answering the Questions

        bull Complete all the questions that you intend to answer on one passage before proceeding to the next one

        bull Only return to unanswered questions if you have enough time remaining

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        8

        New for 2007

        bull Recognize the contribution andor rhetorical purpose of footnotes used in a passage

        bull NOT required to have memorized any particular styles (for example MLA Chicago APA etc)

        bull Responsible for gleaning information from citations

        Types of Multiple-Choice Questions

        Questions on the whole passage Which of the following best describes the passage (A) An appeal for the readerrsquos sympathy and admiration (B) A brief overview of the methods that the author used (C) A summary of the principles according to which the author worked (D) A warning to the reader about the complexity of the ensuing work (E) A challenge to those who would doubt the accuracy of the authorrsquos work The diction in the passage is best described as (A) technical and abstruse (B) lofty and learned (C) pedestriasn (D) colloquial (E) scientific The intended audience for this passage is most probably (A) pious readers (B) educated adults (C) amateur writers (D) professional poets (E) book publishers

        The passage most directly resembles the speakerrsquos sense of Parkerrsquos style in its (A) juxtaposition of disparate elements (B) lyrical description of religion and art (C) blatant mimicry of other writersrsquo techniques (D) relentless insistence on a single theme (E) reliance on abbreviated staccato phrases

        Questions on specific parts of the passage Analysis of a paragraph

        One prominent stylistic characteristic of the first paragraph is the use of (A) metaphor (B) understatement (C) parallel syntax (D) personification (E) euphemism In the third paragraph the speakerrsquos primary purpose is to (A) assert her own qualifications (B) develop an argument for more honesty in writing (C) create an elaborate analogy (D) introduce a new topic for consideration (E) establish a hypothetical situation for analysis The tone of lines 59-72 can best be described as (A) tentative and prudent (B) detached and ironic (C) fervent and emphatic (D) defensive and self-aware (E) supportive and reassuring

        Analysis of words or phrases Which of the following best describes Johnsonrsquos use of the terms ldquoslave or

        sciencerdquo and ldquopioneer of literaturerdquo (lines 10-11) (A) The contrast between the two terms emphasizes the variety of possible responses to the

        dictionary (B) Both sensationalize the difficulty of the lexicographerrsquos research (C) The difference between the two terms illustrates the range of the lexicographerrsquos experience (D) Both exaggerate the publicrsquos lack of admiration for lexicographers (E) Each illustrated what is meant later in the sentence by ldquoLearning and Geniusrdquo The ldquoarrowrdquo in line 38 is a metaphorical reference to (A) unrequited love (B) the envy of other female writers (C) the self-doubt that writers sometimes experience (D) a painful memory (E) criticism from men

        Grammatical constructions

        In line 12 ldquowhordquo refers to (A) ldquounhappy mortalsrdquo (line8) (B) ldquomankindrdquo (line 9) (C) ldquopupilrdquo (line 10) (D) ldquothe slaverdquo (line 10) and ldquothe pionierrdquo (line 10) (E) ldquoLearning and Geniusrdquo (line 12) Which words when inserted between ldquobutrdquo and ldquocapablerdquo (lines 7-8) best clarify the meaning of the second sentence (A) as if (B) becoming more (C) by being (D) which were (E) that are

        Antecedents In line 17 ldquothis negative recompenserdquo refers to (A) freedom from criticism (B) gratitude from future generations (C) personal satisfaction (D) diligence as its own reward (E) absence of recognition

        Relating one part of the passage to another part

        How is the second paragraph related to the first (A) It qualifies the generalization made in the first paragraph by challenging the scope of the

        assertions (B) It refutes the assertion made in the first paragraph by presenting a contrary example (C) It continues the generalization made in the first paragraph by giving it a particular

        application (D) It supports the assertion made in the first paragraph by citing the testimony of authority (E) It reiterates the ideas in the first paragraph while noting a possible exception

        Vocabulary in context As used in line 46 ldquowantingrdquo is best interpreted to mean (A) desiring (B) capturing (C) lacking

        (D) faulting (E) hunting Use of Footnotes The purpose of footnote 4 is to inform the reader that the quotation in line 49

        (A) has been attributed to three different designers (B) was first cited in 1918 (C) was the inspiration for an exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum (D) is an article in The Machine Age in America 1981-1941 written by Harry N Abrams Inc

        Terminology from past AP Tests Multiple Choice Questions D Fettrow

        Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurposeabstraction action verb alliteration allusion (literary historical) analogy analysis anecdote antithesis appeal to authority apostrophe argument assertion characterization citing of authorities colloquial expression commentary comparison concrete examples context counterbalance critique criticism data deduction description developing an argument

        diction digression discussion distinguish emphasis enumerate enunciate expand on expository extending an example fallacy extending a metaphor generalizations hypothesizing illuminate illustrate image implies irony issues justify juxtaposition narration onomatopoeia overstatement oxymoron paradox

        parallelism parody pathos personal observation personification praise proposal pun qualifying rebuttal refute reveal scientific term simile speculation subordinate clause summary (ize) symbol thesis transitions undercut understatement unfold taking exception unqualified assertion verbal irony

        ToneStyle Wordsabashed abhorring abstract admiring adoring affectionate agitated ambiguous ambivalent angry annoyed antagonistic anxious apathetic apprehensive arch awkward biting blunt boring

        brusque candid celebratory choleric combative complex confusing contemplative confident conciliatory condescending contemptuous cynicism dangerous defensive derisive despairing desperate detached didactic

        diffident earnest effusive elegiac empathetic emphatic enigmatic entrapped erratic euphoric fatalistic fateful fervent flippant foreboding gloomy growth hopeful hopeless hostile

        Terminology from past AP Tests Multiple Choice Questions D Fettrow

        incisive indecisive inflammatory informative innovative insolent intimate introspective ironic isolated jocund jovial laudatory lethargic lugubrious lyrical mock solemnity modest naive

        nostalgic objective ornamental parochial passionate personal pessimistic pointed prudent reassuring refined reflective resigned resentful respectful reticent sanguine self-assured self-deprecating

        self-aware sentimental skeptical solemnity speculative straightforward struggling subtle supportive sympathetic suspicious tentative vitriolic vivid whimsical wistful wry zealous

        Grammatical Constructionantecedent subject of sentence

        parallel structure prepositions

        General Vocabularyadmonitions advisability amplifying appease ascertain awesome barrenness blatant burdensome concept conspicuous contradictions contrived depiction definitive digressive discredit discursive dispense with diverse dubious dyspeptic

        emitting entrepreneur erratic exalted exclusive fateful foreknowledge futility hostile inanimate interlocked intimidate invalid linguistic jeremiads magnanimity mimicry monarch nomenclature objective particular perspective

        pervasive phenomena preceding predecessors pretext profound regal relentless resolve sensibility serenity staccato subtle subjective surpass tentative treachery undaunted undercut unique unrequited unsophisticated

        Sample Footnote Questions 1 Which of the following is an accurate reading of footnote 2

        (A) An article by John F Kasson appears on page 427 of Engineering (B) ldquoMachine Tools at the Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo was published in New York (C) The article ldquoEngineeringrdquo can be found on page 427 of ldquoMachine Tools at the

        Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo (D) ldquoMachine Tools at the Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo is an article published in the May

        26 1876 issue of Engineering (E) Engineering is an article cited by John F Kasson

        2 The purpose of footnote 4 is to inform the reader that the quotation in line 49

        (A) has been attributed to three different designers (B) was first cited in 1918 (C) was the inspiration for an exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum (D) is an article in The Machine Age in America 1981-1941 written by Harry N

        Abrams Inc (E) appears in a book written by Wilson Pilgrim and Tashjian and published in 1986

        3 Taken as a whole the footnotes suggest that

        (A) the author of the passage wants the text to present highly technical material (B) the author of the passage relies heavily on Kassonrsquos book (C) very little was written about the topic of machinery and ornamentation prior to

        1976 (D) engineering magazines are an essential source for technical writers (E) except in rare cases it is best to use the latest published work when documenting

        an idea or concept

        Answer Key 1 D 2 E 3 B

        1

        AP English Languageand Composition

        Effective Essay Writing for Rhetorical Analysis and

        Argumentation

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        2

        The Prompt

        bull The most wonderful essay ever written CANNOT score in the high range if its content is OFF PROMPT

        bull Make sure you are reading the prompt correctly and addressing what it is asking of you

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        3

        Types of Prompts

        bull Analysis (RhetoricalArgument)bull Argumentationbull Synthesis

        ldquoStudents should read essay prompts as texts making certain they have understood what they are

        being asked to dordquo ~ M Elkins

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        4

        1 Read the Prompt

        bull Read the promptbull Read the prompt againbull Underline key wordsphrasesbull Number those elements that must be

        accomplished in the essaybull Do everything the prompt suggests

        address every part of the prompt

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        5

        Sample Prompts wNotation

        bull See Handoutsbull Annotate the Prompt to discover and stay

        focused on your TASK(S)bull Annotate the passage according to the

        TASK(S)bull Determine the Authorrsquos IntentPurpose in

        the passage

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        6

        Analysis

        bull Rhetorical ndash consider tone attitude point of view techniques diction imagery syntax language level

        bull Argument ndash consider tone attitude strategies emphasis diction imagery syntax appeals

        2

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        7

        General Analysis Terms(Recent Exams)

        bull ldquoCrafts the Textrdquobull Rhetorical Strategiesbull Most Compelling (ObservationArgument)bull Strategies Used (to Satirize)bull ldquoConveys the EffectFeelingetchelliprdquo

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        8

        Specific Terms

        bull Argumentsbull Assumptionsbull Sentence Structure Syntaxbull Tonebull Point of Viewbull Detail

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        9

        Consider Your Task

        bull Analyze techniquesbull ConveyDefine Attitudebull Achieve Purposebull Effect on AudienceReaderbull Reveal Differences in Purpose

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        10

        Authorial Intent

        bull Consider Purposebull Consider Audiencebull Consider Occasionbull What is the RHETORICAL purpose of the

        passagebull What techniques of LANGUAGE does the

        writer use to achieve that purpose

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        11

        2 Read the Passagebull Annotate as you readbull Identify subject and examples usedbull Mark diction ndash connotation and ironybull Use ofChoices in Imagery ndash parallel

        themes and symbolsbull Unusual Syntax andor Punctuationbull Connection andor Organization of ideas

        paragraphs sentences

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        12

        3 Organization

        bull Think before you writebull DO NOT begin by restating ie parroting

        the prompt word for wordbull Thesis need to be specific ndash how do the

        purpose and language interactbull Characterize the elements under analysis

        donrsquot just list them

        3

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        13

        Use DetailsExamples

        bull Quote from the passage liberallybull Use examples of diction details

        assumption figurative language etchellipbull Use short quotes ndash embed into your own

        statementsbull Always explain the writerrsquos purpose in

        including these devices

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        14

        Write about what you know

        bull You cannot possibly explore every rhetorical devicetechnique the author has used

        bull Select those for which you can explain the function and purpose

        bull Look for connections between the various devicesstrategies

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        15

        Writing the Body pararsquos

        bull Be thorough and specific ANALYZEbull Do not simply ldquopoint outrdquo strategiesbull Explain how they are usedbull Provide examples from the textbull Speculate as to why the author included

        them what is their effectbull How do they support the purpose

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        16

        Focus on Function

        bull Donrsquot guess about the name of a devicebull If you arenrsquot sure if the name is

        onomatopoeia or oxymoron or metonymy then donrsquot use the term

        bull But do include the ldquobuzzrdquo and ldquoloud silencerdquo and ldquothe crownrdquo hellip

        bull And then discuss HOW they contribute to the selection

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        17

        A Good Length

        bull No magic number of paragraphsbull Divide into paragraphs ndash donrsquot write one long

        paragraph ndash find natural breaks and indentbull Find a pattern of organization order of

        appearance words to phrases to paragraphshellipbull WATCH YOUR TIME ndash you want to include

        language from the WHOLE passage

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        18

        Style and Voice

        bull Write to express not to impress ndash use natural language

        bull Demonstrate that you understand style ndashshow how the author developed the selection to create a desired effect

        bull Maintain an economy of language ndash say much with few words - CONCISION

        4

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        19

        Style and Voice (contrsquod)

        bull Best to use third person (he she they) rather than first person

        bull Try to use present tense when discussing literaturewritten text

        bull Write legibly ndash the readers cannot reward you for what you do well if they cannot read it

        bull Let your work stand on its own merits ndash no pity notes (ldquoI was up all nightrdquo etchellip

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        20

        Verbs that contribute

        bull Chroniclesbull Delineatesbull Demonstratesbull Depictsbull Exemplifiesbull Featuresbull Illuminates

        bull Portraysbull Reflectsbull Specifiesbull Suggestsbull Illustratesbull DO NOT USE

        ndash goes shows tells

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        21

        Argumentation

        bull Defend ndash Support ndash agree completelybull Challenge ndash Dispute ndash disagree

        completelybull Qualify ndash means to agree or disagree

        except in certain circumstancesbull Choose the approach for which you can

        find the most evidence Take a stand Donrsquot straddle the fence

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        22

        Step One

        bull Determine the point of the author in the passage

        bull Develop you own position on that point (Agree Disagree Qualify)

        bull Choose the side for which you have the most detail for support

        bull This provides the details for you introduction

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        23

        Finding Evidence (details)

        bull If appropriate find details from a variety of sources

        bull Use historybull Use sciencebull Use literaturebull Use current eventsbull Use personal observation

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        24

        Be Specific with Details

        bull Reasons ndash use illustrationsbull Examples ndash include names titlesbull Incidents ndash include dates placesbull FactsStatistics ndash DO NOT make them upbull Personal Experience ndash donrsquot generalize

        use names places

        5

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        25

        Use Quality Detail

        bull Avoid inaccuracies ndash BE RIGHTbull Add as many specifics as possible ndash

        specific names specific dates specific titles

        bull Be coherent ndash include only RELEVANT detailshellipmore is NOT necessarily merrierhellipdonrsquot include details that donrsquot directly support your point

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        26

        Organize the Argument

        bull Write a strong thesis ndash state your position clearly

        bull Formulate 3-4 paragraphsbull Admit the opposition ndash acknowledge the

        opposing argumentbull Make your points relevant and accuratebull Add a conclusion

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        27

        Argument Intro

        bull Write a short intro in which youhellipbull Explain the position of the authorbull Present your position and any background

        the reader needs to knowbull Include a strong thesis ndash one that clearly

        presents the position (defend challenge qualify)

        bull Do NOT repeat the promptBroward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        28

        Concession

        bull Think of the argument the opposing side might propose

        bull Be willing to concede a pointbull Think of ways to acknowledge those

        arguments and refute thembull Might place after your introduction donrsquot

        spend more than two sentences

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        29

        The Body

        bull Start with the weakest and end with the strongest

        bull Divide your assertions into paragraphs with the appropriate support in each

        bull Apply effective transitions to match the organization of the content

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        30

        Conclusion

        bull Write a brief conclusion in which you return - with force - to your position

        bull Try to come full-circle ndash return to idea you usedmentioned in your introduction

        bull Consider analogies to your point in the introduction to avoid merely repeating the introduction

        6

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        31

        Voice and Style - redux

        bull Generally use a less formal style than with analysis essays

        bull Use first person if it seems naturalbull AVOID second person - ldquoyourdquobull Write naturally past tense is okaybull Use exact diction (avoid non-specific

        language ldquoonerdquo ldquothingrdquo etchellip)

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        32

        Answer the Question

        bull Look for key wordsbull Choose only one approachbull Use a variety of evidencebull Be specific

        The study of rhetoric stretches back to classical Greece Today the term is most commonly taken pejoratively meaning bombastic or exaggerated language But rhetoric also has a neutral meaningmdashrhetoric as the art or science of persuasion by means of stylistic and structural techniques The study of rhetoric is useful because it encourages us to think of writing (and speaking for that matter) as a series of strategic choices Every attempt to put words together includes choices about which words to use and how to arrange them In this sense all writers like it or not use rhetoric

        Even simplicity is a rhetorical and political choice George Orwell for instance was a master of the plain style and used it to devastating effect in his political journalism and novels like 1984 and

        Animal Farm (for more on the rhetoric of simplicity see Hugh Kenner ldquoThe Politics of the Plain Stylerdquo in Literary Journalism in the Twentieth Century ed Norman Sims [New York Oxford University Press 1990])

        Rhetoric is also useful because it encourages thinking about ones audience Different audiences require different rhetorical choices In the following section Ill list some of the most pertinent rhetorical techniques or tropes when writing for academic audiences

        Diction

        Perhaps the first rhetorical choice a writer makesmdashand all writers make this choice whether they realize it or notmdashis diction or what words to use Different words even if they ostensibly mean the same thing have different connotations as the poet W H Auden well understood And different audiences have different expectations about appropriate diction Academic writing requires a more formal diction than everyday talk or journalism and within academe writing in the natural sciences requires a more formal diction than writing in the humanities Im no great fan of formality in writing but on the other hand one does need to know and respect the conventions of academe and other professional forums for serious writing

        ORIGINAL REVISION

        The layers of dirt were not messed up at all The sedimentary levels were undisturbed

        In general the more specialized training a profession requires the more it develops its own jargon as a way of differentiating those who have acquired the proper training from those who have not Twist a policemans arm for instance and you still probably couldnt get him to say car or robber or gun or hit or saw long professional training has habituated him to vehicle alleged perpetrator firearm strike and observed This kind of Official Style diction is all around us Students tend to learn it as the epitome of adult discourse and to go too far in incorporating it into their own writing

        My general advice regarding diction is to prefer plain to fancy unless the scholarly field expects a particular word Since appropriate choices vary within specific disciplines and sometimes between individual scholars my suggestion to students is to locate model

        authors within their chosen fields and study those authors diction and other rhetorical strategies Your professors can help you find good models ask them to recommend respected scholars who write well There are always at least a few in every field

        Parallelism

        Parallelism is one of the most useful and flexible rhetorical techniques It refers to any structure which brings together parallel elements be these nouns adjectives verbs adverbs or larger structures Done well parallelism imparts grace and power to passage

        The princes strength is also his weakness his self-reliance is also isolation

        In Machiavellis world Sheldon Wolin observes moral ends have been replaced by ironies answers have been replaced by questions

        The characters are all watching one another forming theories about one another listening contriving

        One side sees Lincoln as a bold and shrewd leader sincerely committed to abolishing slavery the other sees him as an opportunistic politician concerned only to defend the union in any way possible

        Problems with faulty parallelism are very common because many people know (or think they know) what they want to say and dont scrutinize what they actually write In the following examples the parallel elements in the revisions are emphasized

        ORIGINAL REVISION

        Someone acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

        Acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

        Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and the need to get rid of sentimental attachments

        Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and ridding oneself of sentimental attachments

        Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and he tries to avoid marriage

        Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and tries to avoid marriage

        One frequent source of trouble is nested listsmdashwhen one sublist occurs within another list The writer of this sentence lost track and thought the final comma signaled the last item in the main list

        Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American

        Association of Colleges and Universities

        The trick is to recognize that this is actually a nested list and maintain parallelism within each list

        Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers and in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

        The list is technically okay but its complexity makes it a bit hard to read One could rearrange the list to emphasize different elements and allow some pauses

        Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and in targeted outlets like the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

        Note that among other changes the revision adds the word targeted which makes it easier to get the lists logic As ever revision is equal parts rewriting and rethinking

        One other problem with parallelism is fairly common though this is a stylistic rather than a grammatical lapse Writers often repeat too much in the parallel elements detracting from parallelisms economical elegance

        ORIGINAL REVISION

        Socrates led a private life as opposed to a public life

        Socrates led a private rather than a public life

        Parallelism can be employed in many different ways One spin is inversion or chiasmus in which parallel elements are carefully reversed for emphasis A famous example comes from President John F Kennedys inaugural address (1961)

        Ask not what your country can do for youmdashask what you can do for your country

        Inversion often gains power by focusing attention on the ends of sentences where readers and listeners naturally pause Kennedys example shows this as does the next example from a 19th-century religious leader defending his honesty despite his change of religion

        I have changed in many things in this I have not

        By putting the prepositional phrase in this at the beginning of the second clause the speaker is able to end on that emphatic final not

        Repetition

        Repetition is one of the most useful tools available to writers Repetition allows a writer or speaker to hammer home an idea image or relationship to force the reader or listener to pay attention Two classic examples of the incredible power of repetition are Mark Antonys They are all honorable men speech in Shakespeares Julius Caesar (32) and Martin Luther King Jrs I have a dream speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963

        But many writers especially young writers fear repetition apparently believing that repeating a word within a single sentence or short passage is bad style H W Fowler author of the old but still recommended Fowlers Modern English Usage (1st ed 1926) called this tendency elegant variation and observed There are few literary faults so widely prevalent

        Heres an example of a student working hard to avoid repeating words within a sentence It doesnt work well the revision repeats words and reads more easily

        ORIGINAL REVISION

        The test group got an average of seven test questions correct the mean for the control category was thirteen valid responses

        The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group averaged thirteen

        The originals nervous avoidance of repetition (for instance using first group and then category) makes it a bit hard to follow The revision by contrast is easier to follow because it repeats words and syntactical structures Note that repetition allows the writer to cut some repeated elements and focus attention on the key information the contrast

        Practiced writers will also employ all sorts of variations on this pattern of repetition

        The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group thirteen

        The test group averaged seven correct answers to the control groups thirteen

        Another example of a writer afraid of repetition

        ORIGINAL REVISION

        First the North Koreans made an incursion almost all the way down the peninsula then Americans and South Korean forces drove back into the north

        First the North Koreans drove almost all the way down the peninsula then American and South Korean forces drove back into the north

        In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

        Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

        We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

        Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

        Using tenses consistently

        Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

        ORIGINAL REVISION

        Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

        Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

        The historical present

        One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

        ORIGINAL REVISION

        Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

        Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

        Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

        But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

        ORIGINAL REVISION

        Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

        This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

        ORIGINAL REVISION

        A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

        A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

        But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

        Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

        Alliteration

        Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

        Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

        As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

        The rule of three

        This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

        Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

        doesnt try to soften his image

        A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

        The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

        Humor

        Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

        First and second person

        Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

        You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

        Questions and exclamations

        Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

        Placing emphasis

        If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

        These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

        ORIGINAL REVISION

        True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

        True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

        The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

        There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

        Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

        Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

        relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

        from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

        consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

        Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

        Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

        Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

        1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

        Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

        bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

        statements and actions essential to understanding a character

        bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

        bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

        bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

        choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

        bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

        yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

        intuits is of significance to understanding the text

        (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

        SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

        1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

        2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

        Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

        The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

        A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

        Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

        Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

        OR ndash

        The dog bit the man baring its teeth

        Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

        Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

        bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

        bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

        is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

        participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

        bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

        o Me Up At Does

        Me up at does

        out of the floor

        quietly Stare

        a poisoned mouse

        still who alive

        is asking What

        have I done that

        You wouldnt have

        In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

        The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

        Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

        A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

        B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

        1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

        D Variety of sentence patterns

        1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

        E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

        1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

        Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

        Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

        denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

        connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

        Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

        The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

        overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

        Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

        1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

        2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

        3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

        4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

        Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

        Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

        These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

        Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

        No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

        Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

        We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

        SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

        In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

        Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

        Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

        (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

        In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

        Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

        not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

        rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

        SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

        Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

        VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

        WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

        differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

        alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

        TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

        details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

        setting plot details point of view diction

        READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

        impact shock anger awareness connections

        contrasts mood images imagery tones

        Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

        Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

        but rather hywoamninnad

        ffiimonm

        snaafislaapffabuaain

        nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

        kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

        condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

        Contrast and Comparision

        or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

        Emphasis and Repetition

        or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

        ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

        Time

        oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

        rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

        in futur subsequently

        Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

        ound e de whenever op

        eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

        n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

        at the right before between

        in the foregr on this sid besiposite

        R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

        in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

        TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

        Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

        words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

        ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

        1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

        Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

        2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

        Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

        Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

        additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

        Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

        Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

        Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

        Words that Identify

        that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

        that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

        but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

        Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

        Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

        Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

        Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

        CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

        seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

        Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

        EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

        Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

        Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

        SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

        in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

        previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

        finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

        to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

        Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

        Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

        EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

        Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

        Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

        core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

        Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

        Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

        As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

        Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

        other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

        Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

        Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

        Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

        In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

        Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

        (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

        AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

        from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

        drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

        principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

        the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

        15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

        known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

        of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

        choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

        itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

        APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

        bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

        guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

        authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

        sense of urgency specific examples

        LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

        bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

        bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

        ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

        ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

        Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

        State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

        THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

        Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

        1

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        1

        AP English Languageand Composition

        Synthesis Question

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        2

        Format

        bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

        and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

        position on topic addressed in sources

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        3

        Sources

        bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

        other visual

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        4

        Types of Sources

        bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        5

        Synthesize the Argument

        bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

        bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

        bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

        bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        6

        Distinctions

        bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

        Source B etchellip)

        2

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        7

        Savvy Writers

        bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

        their argument

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        8

        Six-Part Approach

        bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        9

        Readhellip and Analyze

        bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

        makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

        assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        10

        Generalize

        bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

        bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

        bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

        bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        11

        Converse

        bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

        bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

        bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        12

        Finesse

        bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

        bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

        bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

        3

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        13

        Argue

        bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

        takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

        14

        Conclusion

        bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

        position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

        THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

        WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

        1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

        You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

        3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

        EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

        How to improve your essay writing grade

        1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

        exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

        Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

        The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

        EXAMPLE

        Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

        If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

        1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

        concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

        Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

        Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

        Weaving To break away from the formula

        1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

        2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

        3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

        4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

        EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

        1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

        2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

        earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

        3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

        4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

        5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

        ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

        6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

        7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

        8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

        his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

        work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

        your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

        develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

        bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

        1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

        Top Ten Mistakes

        Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

        An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

        Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

        And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

        10 Apostrophes

        Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

        WRONG RIGHT

        Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

        Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

        Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

        Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

        Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

        WRONG RIGHT

        The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

        The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

        For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

        Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

        There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

        Moses leadership

        Socrates wisdom

        Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

        Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

        8 Conjunction confusion

        Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

        WRONG RIGHT

        Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

        Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

        Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

        Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

        Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

        Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

        WRONG RIGHT

        Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

        Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

        6 Cannot

        One word not two (not can not)

        5 Affect and effect

        Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

        She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

        For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

        She affected the IRSs procedures

        WRONG RIGHT

        A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

        A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

        4 Intents and purposes

        Not intensive purposes

        WRONG RIGHT

        For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

        For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

        3 Plural or singular

        It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

        WRONG RIGHT

        The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

        The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

        Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

        2 Principalprinciple

        Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

        WRONG RIGHT

        Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

        Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

        Heres how to remember the difference

        principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

        principle e for ethics or elementary rule

        1 Itsits

        Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

        WRONG RIGHT

        The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

        The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

        Whos and whose have the same distinction

        WRONG RIGHT

        Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

        Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

        (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

        When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

        Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

        Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

        These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

        1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

        2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

        3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

        4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

        5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

        5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

        7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

        8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

        9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

        10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

        Why it matters

        In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

        What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

        Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

        hink

        • AP Review coverdoc
        • APMCPacketpdf
          • AP MC Reviewpdf
          • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
            • Questions on the whole passage
            • Questions on specific parts of the passage
              • Analysis of a paragraph
              • Analysis of words or phrases
                • Grammatical constructions
                • Antecedents
                • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                  • Vocabulary in context
                      • MCVocabdoc
                        • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                        • ToneStyle Words
                        • Grammatical Construction
                        • General Vocabulary
                          • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                          • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                          • ScorCalculpdf
                            • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                              • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                              • Rhetoricdoc
                              • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                              • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                              • promptpdf
                              • Annotating Textdoc
                              • Syntaxdoc
                                • SYNTAX
                                  • Improving writing
                                  • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                  • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                      • Diction and Tonedoc
                                        • Diction and Tone
                                          • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                          • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                          • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                          • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                          • Argumentationdoc
                                          • Argumentvocabdoc
                                          • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                          • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                            • APSynandGenpdf
                                              • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                              • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                              • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                  • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                  • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                    • 2005Bpdf
                                                    • 2006Bpdf

          Types of Multiple-Choice Questions

          Questions on the whole passage Which of the following best describes the passage (A) An appeal for the readerrsquos sympathy and admiration (B) A brief overview of the methods that the author used (C) A summary of the principles according to which the author worked (D) A warning to the reader about the complexity of the ensuing work (E) A challenge to those who would doubt the accuracy of the authorrsquos work The diction in the passage is best described as (A) technical and abstruse (B) lofty and learned (C) pedestriasn (D) colloquial (E) scientific The intended audience for this passage is most probably (A) pious readers (B) educated adults (C) amateur writers (D) professional poets (E) book publishers

          The passage most directly resembles the speakerrsquos sense of Parkerrsquos style in its (A) juxtaposition of disparate elements (B) lyrical description of religion and art (C) blatant mimicry of other writersrsquo techniques (D) relentless insistence on a single theme (E) reliance on abbreviated staccato phrases

          Questions on specific parts of the passage Analysis of a paragraph

          One prominent stylistic characteristic of the first paragraph is the use of (A) metaphor (B) understatement (C) parallel syntax (D) personification (E) euphemism In the third paragraph the speakerrsquos primary purpose is to (A) assert her own qualifications (B) develop an argument for more honesty in writing (C) create an elaborate analogy (D) introduce a new topic for consideration (E) establish a hypothetical situation for analysis The tone of lines 59-72 can best be described as (A) tentative and prudent (B) detached and ironic (C) fervent and emphatic (D) defensive and self-aware (E) supportive and reassuring

          Analysis of words or phrases Which of the following best describes Johnsonrsquos use of the terms ldquoslave or

          sciencerdquo and ldquopioneer of literaturerdquo (lines 10-11) (A) The contrast between the two terms emphasizes the variety of possible responses to the

          dictionary (B) Both sensationalize the difficulty of the lexicographerrsquos research (C) The difference between the two terms illustrates the range of the lexicographerrsquos experience (D) Both exaggerate the publicrsquos lack of admiration for lexicographers (E) Each illustrated what is meant later in the sentence by ldquoLearning and Geniusrdquo The ldquoarrowrdquo in line 38 is a metaphorical reference to (A) unrequited love (B) the envy of other female writers (C) the self-doubt that writers sometimes experience (D) a painful memory (E) criticism from men

          Grammatical constructions

          In line 12 ldquowhordquo refers to (A) ldquounhappy mortalsrdquo (line8) (B) ldquomankindrdquo (line 9) (C) ldquopupilrdquo (line 10) (D) ldquothe slaverdquo (line 10) and ldquothe pionierrdquo (line 10) (E) ldquoLearning and Geniusrdquo (line 12) Which words when inserted between ldquobutrdquo and ldquocapablerdquo (lines 7-8) best clarify the meaning of the second sentence (A) as if (B) becoming more (C) by being (D) which were (E) that are

          Antecedents In line 17 ldquothis negative recompenserdquo refers to (A) freedom from criticism (B) gratitude from future generations (C) personal satisfaction (D) diligence as its own reward (E) absence of recognition

          Relating one part of the passage to another part

          How is the second paragraph related to the first (A) It qualifies the generalization made in the first paragraph by challenging the scope of the

          assertions (B) It refutes the assertion made in the first paragraph by presenting a contrary example (C) It continues the generalization made in the first paragraph by giving it a particular

          application (D) It supports the assertion made in the first paragraph by citing the testimony of authority (E) It reiterates the ideas in the first paragraph while noting a possible exception

          Vocabulary in context As used in line 46 ldquowantingrdquo is best interpreted to mean (A) desiring (B) capturing (C) lacking

          (D) faulting (E) hunting Use of Footnotes The purpose of footnote 4 is to inform the reader that the quotation in line 49

          (A) has been attributed to three different designers (B) was first cited in 1918 (C) was the inspiration for an exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum (D) is an article in The Machine Age in America 1981-1941 written by Harry N Abrams Inc

          Terminology from past AP Tests Multiple Choice Questions D Fettrow

          Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurposeabstraction action verb alliteration allusion (literary historical) analogy analysis anecdote antithesis appeal to authority apostrophe argument assertion characterization citing of authorities colloquial expression commentary comparison concrete examples context counterbalance critique criticism data deduction description developing an argument

          diction digression discussion distinguish emphasis enumerate enunciate expand on expository extending an example fallacy extending a metaphor generalizations hypothesizing illuminate illustrate image implies irony issues justify juxtaposition narration onomatopoeia overstatement oxymoron paradox

          parallelism parody pathos personal observation personification praise proposal pun qualifying rebuttal refute reveal scientific term simile speculation subordinate clause summary (ize) symbol thesis transitions undercut understatement unfold taking exception unqualified assertion verbal irony

          ToneStyle Wordsabashed abhorring abstract admiring adoring affectionate agitated ambiguous ambivalent angry annoyed antagonistic anxious apathetic apprehensive arch awkward biting blunt boring

          brusque candid celebratory choleric combative complex confusing contemplative confident conciliatory condescending contemptuous cynicism dangerous defensive derisive despairing desperate detached didactic

          diffident earnest effusive elegiac empathetic emphatic enigmatic entrapped erratic euphoric fatalistic fateful fervent flippant foreboding gloomy growth hopeful hopeless hostile

          Terminology from past AP Tests Multiple Choice Questions D Fettrow

          incisive indecisive inflammatory informative innovative insolent intimate introspective ironic isolated jocund jovial laudatory lethargic lugubrious lyrical mock solemnity modest naive

          nostalgic objective ornamental parochial passionate personal pessimistic pointed prudent reassuring refined reflective resigned resentful respectful reticent sanguine self-assured self-deprecating

          self-aware sentimental skeptical solemnity speculative straightforward struggling subtle supportive sympathetic suspicious tentative vitriolic vivid whimsical wistful wry zealous

          Grammatical Constructionantecedent subject of sentence

          parallel structure prepositions

          General Vocabularyadmonitions advisability amplifying appease ascertain awesome barrenness blatant burdensome concept conspicuous contradictions contrived depiction definitive digressive discredit discursive dispense with diverse dubious dyspeptic

          emitting entrepreneur erratic exalted exclusive fateful foreknowledge futility hostile inanimate interlocked intimidate invalid linguistic jeremiads magnanimity mimicry monarch nomenclature objective particular perspective

          pervasive phenomena preceding predecessors pretext profound regal relentless resolve sensibility serenity staccato subtle subjective surpass tentative treachery undaunted undercut unique unrequited unsophisticated

          Sample Footnote Questions 1 Which of the following is an accurate reading of footnote 2

          (A) An article by John F Kasson appears on page 427 of Engineering (B) ldquoMachine Tools at the Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo was published in New York (C) The article ldquoEngineeringrdquo can be found on page 427 of ldquoMachine Tools at the

          Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo (D) ldquoMachine Tools at the Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo is an article published in the May

          26 1876 issue of Engineering (E) Engineering is an article cited by John F Kasson

          2 The purpose of footnote 4 is to inform the reader that the quotation in line 49

          (A) has been attributed to three different designers (B) was first cited in 1918 (C) was the inspiration for an exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum (D) is an article in The Machine Age in America 1981-1941 written by Harry N

          Abrams Inc (E) appears in a book written by Wilson Pilgrim and Tashjian and published in 1986

          3 Taken as a whole the footnotes suggest that

          (A) the author of the passage wants the text to present highly technical material (B) the author of the passage relies heavily on Kassonrsquos book (C) very little was written about the topic of machinery and ornamentation prior to

          1976 (D) engineering magazines are an essential source for technical writers (E) except in rare cases it is best to use the latest published work when documenting

          an idea or concept

          Answer Key 1 D 2 E 3 B

          1

          AP English Languageand Composition

          Effective Essay Writing for Rhetorical Analysis and

          Argumentation

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          2

          The Prompt

          bull The most wonderful essay ever written CANNOT score in the high range if its content is OFF PROMPT

          bull Make sure you are reading the prompt correctly and addressing what it is asking of you

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          3

          Types of Prompts

          bull Analysis (RhetoricalArgument)bull Argumentationbull Synthesis

          ldquoStudents should read essay prompts as texts making certain they have understood what they are

          being asked to dordquo ~ M Elkins

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          4

          1 Read the Prompt

          bull Read the promptbull Read the prompt againbull Underline key wordsphrasesbull Number those elements that must be

          accomplished in the essaybull Do everything the prompt suggests

          address every part of the prompt

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          5

          Sample Prompts wNotation

          bull See Handoutsbull Annotate the Prompt to discover and stay

          focused on your TASK(S)bull Annotate the passage according to the

          TASK(S)bull Determine the Authorrsquos IntentPurpose in

          the passage

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          6

          Analysis

          bull Rhetorical ndash consider tone attitude point of view techniques diction imagery syntax language level

          bull Argument ndash consider tone attitude strategies emphasis diction imagery syntax appeals

          2

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          7

          General Analysis Terms(Recent Exams)

          bull ldquoCrafts the Textrdquobull Rhetorical Strategiesbull Most Compelling (ObservationArgument)bull Strategies Used (to Satirize)bull ldquoConveys the EffectFeelingetchelliprdquo

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          8

          Specific Terms

          bull Argumentsbull Assumptionsbull Sentence Structure Syntaxbull Tonebull Point of Viewbull Detail

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          9

          Consider Your Task

          bull Analyze techniquesbull ConveyDefine Attitudebull Achieve Purposebull Effect on AudienceReaderbull Reveal Differences in Purpose

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          10

          Authorial Intent

          bull Consider Purposebull Consider Audiencebull Consider Occasionbull What is the RHETORICAL purpose of the

          passagebull What techniques of LANGUAGE does the

          writer use to achieve that purpose

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          11

          2 Read the Passagebull Annotate as you readbull Identify subject and examples usedbull Mark diction ndash connotation and ironybull Use ofChoices in Imagery ndash parallel

          themes and symbolsbull Unusual Syntax andor Punctuationbull Connection andor Organization of ideas

          paragraphs sentences

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          12

          3 Organization

          bull Think before you writebull DO NOT begin by restating ie parroting

          the prompt word for wordbull Thesis need to be specific ndash how do the

          purpose and language interactbull Characterize the elements under analysis

          donrsquot just list them

          3

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          13

          Use DetailsExamples

          bull Quote from the passage liberallybull Use examples of diction details

          assumption figurative language etchellipbull Use short quotes ndash embed into your own

          statementsbull Always explain the writerrsquos purpose in

          including these devices

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          14

          Write about what you know

          bull You cannot possibly explore every rhetorical devicetechnique the author has used

          bull Select those for which you can explain the function and purpose

          bull Look for connections between the various devicesstrategies

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          15

          Writing the Body pararsquos

          bull Be thorough and specific ANALYZEbull Do not simply ldquopoint outrdquo strategiesbull Explain how they are usedbull Provide examples from the textbull Speculate as to why the author included

          them what is their effectbull How do they support the purpose

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          16

          Focus on Function

          bull Donrsquot guess about the name of a devicebull If you arenrsquot sure if the name is

          onomatopoeia or oxymoron or metonymy then donrsquot use the term

          bull But do include the ldquobuzzrdquo and ldquoloud silencerdquo and ldquothe crownrdquo hellip

          bull And then discuss HOW they contribute to the selection

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          17

          A Good Length

          bull No magic number of paragraphsbull Divide into paragraphs ndash donrsquot write one long

          paragraph ndash find natural breaks and indentbull Find a pattern of organization order of

          appearance words to phrases to paragraphshellipbull WATCH YOUR TIME ndash you want to include

          language from the WHOLE passage

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          18

          Style and Voice

          bull Write to express not to impress ndash use natural language

          bull Demonstrate that you understand style ndashshow how the author developed the selection to create a desired effect

          bull Maintain an economy of language ndash say much with few words - CONCISION

          4

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          19

          Style and Voice (contrsquod)

          bull Best to use third person (he she they) rather than first person

          bull Try to use present tense when discussing literaturewritten text

          bull Write legibly ndash the readers cannot reward you for what you do well if they cannot read it

          bull Let your work stand on its own merits ndash no pity notes (ldquoI was up all nightrdquo etchellip

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          20

          Verbs that contribute

          bull Chroniclesbull Delineatesbull Demonstratesbull Depictsbull Exemplifiesbull Featuresbull Illuminates

          bull Portraysbull Reflectsbull Specifiesbull Suggestsbull Illustratesbull DO NOT USE

          ndash goes shows tells

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          21

          Argumentation

          bull Defend ndash Support ndash agree completelybull Challenge ndash Dispute ndash disagree

          completelybull Qualify ndash means to agree or disagree

          except in certain circumstancesbull Choose the approach for which you can

          find the most evidence Take a stand Donrsquot straddle the fence

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          22

          Step One

          bull Determine the point of the author in the passage

          bull Develop you own position on that point (Agree Disagree Qualify)

          bull Choose the side for which you have the most detail for support

          bull This provides the details for you introduction

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          23

          Finding Evidence (details)

          bull If appropriate find details from a variety of sources

          bull Use historybull Use sciencebull Use literaturebull Use current eventsbull Use personal observation

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          24

          Be Specific with Details

          bull Reasons ndash use illustrationsbull Examples ndash include names titlesbull Incidents ndash include dates placesbull FactsStatistics ndash DO NOT make them upbull Personal Experience ndash donrsquot generalize

          use names places

          5

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          25

          Use Quality Detail

          bull Avoid inaccuracies ndash BE RIGHTbull Add as many specifics as possible ndash

          specific names specific dates specific titles

          bull Be coherent ndash include only RELEVANT detailshellipmore is NOT necessarily merrierhellipdonrsquot include details that donrsquot directly support your point

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          26

          Organize the Argument

          bull Write a strong thesis ndash state your position clearly

          bull Formulate 3-4 paragraphsbull Admit the opposition ndash acknowledge the

          opposing argumentbull Make your points relevant and accuratebull Add a conclusion

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          27

          Argument Intro

          bull Write a short intro in which youhellipbull Explain the position of the authorbull Present your position and any background

          the reader needs to knowbull Include a strong thesis ndash one that clearly

          presents the position (defend challenge qualify)

          bull Do NOT repeat the promptBroward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          28

          Concession

          bull Think of the argument the opposing side might propose

          bull Be willing to concede a pointbull Think of ways to acknowledge those

          arguments and refute thembull Might place after your introduction donrsquot

          spend more than two sentences

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          29

          The Body

          bull Start with the weakest and end with the strongest

          bull Divide your assertions into paragraphs with the appropriate support in each

          bull Apply effective transitions to match the organization of the content

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          30

          Conclusion

          bull Write a brief conclusion in which you return - with force - to your position

          bull Try to come full-circle ndash return to idea you usedmentioned in your introduction

          bull Consider analogies to your point in the introduction to avoid merely repeating the introduction

          6

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          31

          Voice and Style - redux

          bull Generally use a less formal style than with analysis essays

          bull Use first person if it seems naturalbull AVOID second person - ldquoyourdquobull Write naturally past tense is okaybull Use exact diction (avoid non-specific

          language ldquoonerdquo ldquothingrdquo etchellip)

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          32

          Answer the Question

          bull Look for key wordsbull Choose only one approachbull Use a variety of evidencebull Be specific

          The study of rhetoric stretches back to classical Greece Today the term is most commonly taken pejoratively meaning bombastic or exaggerated language But rhetoric also has a neutral meaningmdashrhetoric as the art or science of persuasion by means of stylistic and structural techniques The study of rhetoric is useful because it encourages us to think of writing (and speaking for that matter) as a series of strategic choices Every attempt to put words together includes choices about which words to use and how to arrange them In this sense all writers like it or not use rhetoric

          Even simplicity is a rhetorical and political choice George Orwell for instance was a master of the plain style and used it to devastating effect in his political journalism and novels like 1984 and

          Animal Farm (for more on the rhetoric of simplicity see Hugh Kenner ldquoThe Politics of the Plain Stylerdquo in Literary Journalism in the Twentieth Century ed Norman Sims [New York Oxford University Press 1990])

          Rhetoric is also useful because it encourages thinking about ones audience Different audiences require different rhetorical choices In the following section Ill list some of the most pertinent rhetorical techniques or tropes when writing for academic audiences

          Diction

          Perhaps the first rhetorical choice a writer makesmdashand all writers make this choice whether they realize it or notmdashis diction or what words to use Different words even if they ostensibly mean the same thing have different connotations as the poet W H Auden well understood And different audiences have different expectations about appropriate diction Academic writing requires a more formal diction than everyday talk or journalism and within academe writing in the natural sciences requires a more formal diction than writing in the humanities Im no great fan of formality in writing but on the other hand one does need to know and respect the conventions of academe and other professional forums for serious writing

          ORIGINAL REVISION

          The layers of dirt were not messed up at all The sedimentary levels were undisturbed

          In general the more specialized training a profession requires the more it develops its own jargon as a way of differentiating those who have acquired the proper training from those who have not Twist a policemans arm for instance and you still probably couldnt get him to say car or robber or gun or hit or saw long professional training has habituated him to vehicle alleged perpetrator firearm strike and observed This kind of Official Style diction is all around us Students tend to learn it as the epitome of adult discourse and to go too far in incorporating it into their own writing

          My general advice regarding diction is to prefer plain to fancy unless the scholarly field expects a particular word Since appropriate choices vary within specific disciplines and sometimes between individual scholars my suggestion to students is to locate model

          authors within their chosen fields and study those authors diction and other rhetorical strategies Your professors can help you find good models ask them to recommend respected scholars who write well There are always at least a few in every field

          Parallelism

          Parallelism is one of the most useful and flexible rhetorical techniques It refers to any structure which brings together parallel elements be these nouns adjectives verbs adverbs or larger structures Done well parallelism imparts grace and power to passage

          The princes strength is also his weakness his self-reliance is also isolation

          In Machiavellis world Sheldon Wolin observes moral ends have been replaced by ironies answers have been replaced by questions

          The characters are all watching one another forming theories about one another listening contriving

          One side sees Lincoln as a bold and shrewd leader sincerely committed to abolishing slavery the other sees him as an opportunistic politician concerned only to defend the union in any way possible

          Problems with faulty parallelism are very common because many people know (or think they know) what they want to say and dont scrutinize what they actually write In the following examples the parallel elements in the revisions are emphasized

          ORIGINAL REVISION

          Someone acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

          Acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

          Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and the need to get rid of sentimental attachments

          Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and ridding oneself of sentimental attachments

          Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and he tries to avoid marriage

          Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and tries to avoid marriage

          One frequent source of trouble is nested listsmdashwhen one sublist occurs within another list The writer of this sentence lost track and thought the final comma signaled the last item in the main list

          Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American

          Association of Colleges and Universities

          The trick is to recognize that this is actually a nested list and maintain parallelism within each list

          Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers and in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

          The list is technically okay but its complexity makes it a bit hard to read One could rearrange the list to emphasize different elements and allow some pauses

          Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and in targeted outlets like the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

          Note that among other changes the revision adds the word targeted which makes it easier to get the lists logic As ever revision is equal parts rewriting and rethinking

          One other problem with parallelism is fairly common though this is a stylistic rather than a grammatical lapse Writers often repeat too much in the parallel elements detracting from parallelisms economical elegance

          ORIGINAL REVISION

          Socrates led a private life as opposed to a public life

          Socrates led a private rather than a public life

          Parallelism can be employed in many different ways One spin is inversion or chiasmus in which parallel elements are carefully reversed for emphasis A famous example comes from President John F Kennedys inaugural address (1961)

          Ask not what your country can do for youmdashask what you can do for your country

          Inversion often gains power by focusing attention on the ends of sentences where readers and listeners naturally pause Kennedys example shows this as does the next example from a 19th-century religious leader defending his honesty despite his change of religion

          I have changed in many things in this I have not

          By putting the prepositional phrase in this at the beginning of the second clause the speaker is able to end on that emphatic final not

          Repetition

          Repetition is one of the most useful tools available to writers Repetition allows a writer or speaker to hammer home an idea image or relationship to force the reader or listener to pay attention Two classic examples of the incredible power of repetition are Mark Antonys They are all honorable men speech in Shakespeares Julius Caesar (32) and Martin Luther King Jrs I have a dream speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963

          But many writers especially young writers fear repetition apparently believing that repeating a word within a single sentence or short passage is bad style H W Fowler author of the old but still recommended Fowlers Modern English Usage (1st ed 1926) called this tendency elegant variation and observed There are few literary faults so widely prevalent

          Heres an example of a student working hard to avoid repeating words within a sentence It doesnt work well the revision repeats words and reads more easily

          ORIGINAL REVISION

          The test group got an average of seven test questions correct the mean for the control category was thirteen valid responses

          The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group averaged thirteen

          The originals nervous avoidance of repetition (for instance using first group and then category) makes it a bit hard to follow The revision by contrast is easier to follow because it repeats words and syntactical structures Note that repetition allows the writer to cut some repeated elements and focus attention on the key information the contrast

          Practiced writers will also employ all sorts of variations on this pattern of repetition

          The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group thirteen

          The test group averaged seven correct answers to the control groups thirteen

          Another example of a writer afraid of repetition

          ORIGINAL REVISION

          First the North Koreans made an incursion almost all the way down the peninsula then Americans and South Korean forces drove back into the north

          First the North Koreans drove almost all the way down the peninsula then American and South Korean forces drove back into the north

          In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

          Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

          We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

          Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

          Using tenses consistently

          Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

          ORIGINAL REVISION

          Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

          Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

          The historical present

          One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

          ORIGINAL REVISION

          Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

          Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

          Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

          But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

          ORIGINAL REVISION

          Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

          This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

          ORIGINAL REVISION

          A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

          A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

          But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

          Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

          Alliteration

          Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

          Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

          As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

          The rule of three

          This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

          Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

          doesnt try to soften his image

          A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

          The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

          Humor

          Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

          First and second person

          Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

          You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

          Questions and exclamations

          Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

          Placing emphasis

          If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

          These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

          ORIGINAL REVISION

          True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

          True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

          The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

          There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

          Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

          Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

          relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

          from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

          consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

          Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

          Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

          Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

          1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

          Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

          bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

          statements and actions essential to understanding a character

          bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

          bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

          bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

          choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

          bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

          yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

          intuits is of significance to understanding the text

          (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

          SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

          1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

          2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

          Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

          The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

          A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

          Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

          Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

          OR ndash

          The dog bit the man baring its teeth

          Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

          Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

          bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

          bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

          is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

          participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

          bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

          o Me Up At Does

          Me up at does

          out of the floor

          quietly Stare

          a poisoned mouse

          still who alive

          is asking What

          have I done that

          You wouldnt have

          In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

          The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

          Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

          A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

          B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

          1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

          D Variety of sentence patterns

          1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

          E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

          1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

          Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

          Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

          denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

          connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

          Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

          The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

          overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

          Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

          1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

          2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

          3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

          4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

          Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

          Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

          These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

          Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

          No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

          Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

          We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

          SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

          In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

          Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

          Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

          (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

          In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

          Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

          not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

          rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

          SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

          Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

          VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

          WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

          differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

          alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

          TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

          details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

          setting plot details point of view diction

          READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

          impact shock anger awareness connections

          contrasts mood images imagery tones

          Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

          Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

          but rather hywoamninnad

          ffiimonm

          snaafislaapffabuaain

          nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

          kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

          condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

          Contrast and Comparision

          or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

          Emphasis and Repetition

          or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

          ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

          Time

          oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

          rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

          in futur subsequently

          Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

          ound e de whenever op

          eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

          n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

          at the right before between

          in the foregr on this sid besiposite

          R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

          in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

          TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

          Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

          words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

          ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

          1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

          Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

          2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

          Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

          Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

          additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

          Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

          Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

          Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

          Words that Identify

          that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

          that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

          but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

          Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

          Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

          Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

          Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

          CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

          seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

          Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

          EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

          Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

          Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

          SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

          in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

          previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

          finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

          to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

          Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

          Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

          EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

          Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

          Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

          core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

          Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

          Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

          As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

          Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

          other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

          Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

          Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

          Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

          In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

          Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

          (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

          AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

          from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

          drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

          principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

          the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

          15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

          known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

          of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

          choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

          itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

          APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

          bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

          guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

          authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

          sense of urgency specific examples

          LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

          bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

          bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

          ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

          ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

          Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

          State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

          THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

          Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

          1

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          1

          AP English Languageand Composition

          Synthesis Question

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          2

          Format

          bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

          and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

          position on topic addressed in sources

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          3

          Sources

          bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

          other visual

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          4

          Types of Sources

          bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          5

          Synthesize the Argument

          bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

          bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

          bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

          bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          6

          Distinctions

          bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

          Source B etchellip)

          2

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          7

          Savvy Writers

          bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

          their argument

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          8

          Six-Part Approach

          bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          9

          Readhellip and Analyze

          bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

          makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

          assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          10

          Generalize

          bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

          bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

          bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

          bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          11

          Converse

          bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

          bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

          bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          12

          Finesse

          bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

          bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

          bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

          3

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          13

          Argue

          bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

          takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

          14

          Conclusion

          bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

          position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

          THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

          WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

          1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

          You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

          3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

          EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

          How to improve your essay writing grade

          1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

          exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

          Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

          The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

          EXAMPLE

          Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

          If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

          1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

          concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

          Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

          Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

          Weaving To break away from the formula

          1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

          2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

          3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

          4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

          EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

          1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

          2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

          earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

          3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

          4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

          5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

          ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

          6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

          7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

          8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

          his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

          work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

          your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

          develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

          bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

          1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

          Top Ten Mistakes

          Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

          An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

          Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

          And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

          10 Apostrophes

          Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

          WRONG RIGHT

          Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

          Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

          Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

          Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

          Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

          WRONG RIGHT

          The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

          The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

          For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

          Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

          There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

          Moses leadership

          Socrates wisdom

          Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

          Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

          8 Conjunction confusion

          Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

          WRONG RIGHT

          Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

          Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

          Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

          Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

          Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

          Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

          WRONG RIGHT

          Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

          Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

          6 Cannot

          One word not two (not can not)

          5 Affect and effect

          Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

          She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

          For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

          She affected the IRSs procedures

          WRONG RIGHT

          A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

          A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

          4 Intents and purposes

          Not intensive purposes

          WRONG RIGHT

          For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

          For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

          3 Plural or singular

          It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

          WRONG RIGHT

          The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

          The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

          Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

          2 Principalprinciple

          Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

          WRONG RIGHT

          Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

          Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

          Heres how to remember the difference

          principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

          principle e for ethics or elementary rule

          1 Itsits

          Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

          WRONG RIGHT

          The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

          The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

          Whos and whose have the same distinction

          WRONG RIGHT

          Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

          Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

          (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

          When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

          Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

          Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

          These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

          1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

          2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

          3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

          4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

          5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

          5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

          7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

          8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

          9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

          10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

          Why it matters

          In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

          What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

          Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

          hink

          • AP Review coverdoc
          • APMCPacketpdf
            • AP MC Reviewpdf
            • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
              • Questions on the whole passage
              • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                • Analysis of a paragraph
                • Analysis of words or phrases
                  • Grammatical constructions
                  • Antecedents
                  • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                    • Vocabulary in context
                        • MCVocabdoc
                          • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                          • ToneStyle Words
                          • Grammatical Construction
                          • General Vocabulary
                            • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                            • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                            • ScorCalculpdf
                              • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                • Rhetoricdoc
                                • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                • promptpdf
                                • Annotating Textdoc
                                • Syntaxdoc
                                  • SYNTAX
                                    • Improving writing
                                    • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                    • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                        • Diction and Tonedoc
                                          • Diction and Tone
                                            • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                            • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                            • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                            • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                            • Argumentationdoc
                                            • Argumentvocabdoc
                                            • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                            • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                              • APSynandGenpdf
                                                • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                  • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                    • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                    • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                      • 2005Bpdf
                                                      • 2006Bpdf

            Analysis of words or phrases Which of the following best describes Johnsonrsquos use of the terms ldquoslave or

            sciencerdquo and ldquopioneer of literaturerdquo (lines 10-11) (A) The contrast between the two terms emphasizes the variety of possible responses to the

            dictionary (B) Both sensationalize the difficulty of the lexicographerrsquos research (C) The difference between the two terms illustrates the range of the lexicographerrsquos experience (D) Both exaggerate the publicrsquos lack of admiration for lexicographers (E) Each illustrated what is meant later in the sentence by ldquoLearning and Geniusrdquo The ldquoarrowrdquo in line 38 is a metaphorical reference to (A) unrequited love (B) the envy of other female writers (C) the self-doubt that writers sometimes experience (D) a painful memory (E) criticism from men

            Grammatical constructions

            In line 12 ldquowhordquo refers to (A) ldquounhappy mortalsrdquo (line8) (B) ldquomankindrdquo (line 9) (C) ldquopupilrdquo (line 10) (D) ldquothe slaverdquo (line 10) and ldquothe pionierrdquo (line 10) (E) ldquoLearning and Geniusrdquo (line 12) Which words when inserted between ldquobutrdquo and ldquocapablerdquo (lines 7-8) best clarify the meaning of the second sentence (A) as if (B) becoming more (C) by being (D) which were (E) that are

            Antecedents In line 17 ldquothis negative recompenserdquo refers to (A) freedom from criticism (B) gratitude from future generations (C) personal satisfaction (D) diligence as its own reward (E) absence of recognition

            Relating one part of the passage to another part

            How is the second paragraph related to the first (A) It qualifies the generalization made in the first paragraph by challenging the scope of the

            assertions (B) It refutes the assertion made in the first paragraph by presenting a contrary example (C) It continues the generalization made in the first paragraph by giving it a particular

            application (D) It supports the assertion made in the first paragraph by citing the testimony of authority (E) It reiterates the ideas in the first paragraph while noting a possible exception

            Vocabulary in context As used in line 46 ldquowantingrdquo is best interpreted to mean (A) desiring (B) capturing (C) lacking

            (D) faulting (E) hunting Use of Footnotes The purpose of footnote 4 is to inform the reader that the quotation in line 49

            (A) has been attributed to three different designers (B) was first cited in 1918 (C) was the inspiration for an exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum (D) is an article in The Machine Age in America 1981-1941 written by Harry N Abrams Inc

            Terminology from past AP Tests Multiple Choice Questions D Fettrow

            Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurposeabstraction action verb alliteration allusion (literary historical) analogy analysis anecdote antithesis appeal to authority apostrophe argument assertion characterization citing of authorities colloquial expression commentary comparison concrete examples context counterbalance critique criticism data deduction description developing an argument

            diction digression discussion distinguish emphasis enumerate enunciate expand on expository extending an example fallacy extending a metaphor generalizations hypothesizing illuminate illustrate image implies irony issues justify juxtaposition narration onomatopoeia overstatement oxymoron paradox

            parallelism parody pathos personal observation personification praise proposal pun qualifying rebuttal refute reveal scientific term simile speculation subordinate clause summary (ize) symbol thesis transitions undercut understatement unfold taking exception unqualified assertion verbal irony

            ToneStyle Wordsabashed abhorring abstract admiring adoring affectionate agitated ambiguous ambivalent angry annoyed antagonistic anxious apathetic apprehensive arch awkward biting blunt boring

            brusque candid celebratory choleric combative complex confusing contemplative confident conciliatory condescending contemptuous cynicism dangerous defensive derisive despairing desperate detached didactic

            diffident earnest effusive elegiac empathetic emphatic enigmatic entrapped erratic euphoric fatalistic fateful fervent flippant foreboding gloomy growth hopeful hopeless hostile

            Terminology from past AP Tests Multiple Choice Questions D Fettrow

            incisive indecisive inflammatory informative innovative insolent intimate introspective ironic isolated jocund jovial laudatory lethargic lugubrious lyrical mock solemnity modest naive

            nostalgic objective ornamental parochial passionate personal pessimistic pointed prudent reassuring refined reflective resigned resentful respectful reticent sanguine self-assured self-deprecating

            self-aware sentimental skeptical solemnity speculative straightforward struggling subtle supportive sympathetic suspicious tentative vitriolic vivid whimsical wistful wry zealous

            Grammatical Constructionantecedent subject of sentence

            parallel structure prepositions

            General Vocabularyadmonitions advisability amplifying appease ascertain awesome barrenness blatant burdensome concept conspicuous contradictions contrived depiction definitive digressive discredit discursive dispense with diverse dubious dyspeptic

            emitting entrepreneur erratic exalted exclusive fateful foreknowledge futility hostile inanimate interlocked intimidate invalid linguistic jeremiads magnanimity mimicry monarch nomenclature objective particular perspective

            pervasive phenomena preceding predecessors pretext profound regal relentless resolve sensibility serenity staccato subtle subjective surpass tentative treachery undaunted undercut unique unrequited unsophisticated

            Sample Footnote Questions 1 Which of the following is an accurate reading of footnote 2

            (A) An article by John F Kasson appears on page 427 of Engineering (B) ldquoMachine Tools at the Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo was published in New York (C) The article ldquoEngineeringrdquo can be found on page 427 of ldquoMachine Tools at the

            Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo (D) ldquoMachine Tools at the Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo is an article published in the May

            26 1876 issue of Engineering (E) Engineering is an article cited by John F Kasson

            2 The purpose of footnote 4 is to inform the reader that the quotation in line 49

            (A) has been attributed to three different designers (B) was first cited in 1918 (C) was the inspiration for an exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum (D) is an article in The Machine Age in America 1981-1941 written by Harry N

            Abrams Inc (E) appears in a book written by Wilson Pilgrim and Tashjian and published in 1986

            3 Taken as a whole the footnotes suggest that

            (A) the author of the passage wants the text to present highly technical material (B) the author of the passage relies heavily on Kassonrsquos book (C) very little was written about the topic of machinery and ornamentation prior to

            1976 (D) engineering magazines are an essential source for technical writers (E) except in rare cases it is best to use the latest published work when documenting

            an idea or concept

            Answer Key 1 D 2 E 3 B

            1

            AP English Languageand Composition

            Effective Essay Writing for Rhetorical Analysis and

            Argumentation

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            2

            The Prompt

            bull The most wonderful essay ever written CANNOT score in the high range if its content is OFF PROMPT

            bull Make sure you are reading the prompt correctly and addressing what it is asking of you

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            3

            Types of Prompts

            bull Analysis (RhetoricalArgument)bull Argumentationbull Synthesis

            ldquoStudents should read essay prompts as texts making certain they have understood what they are

            being asked to dordquo ~ M Elkins

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            4

            1 Read the Prompt

            bull Read the promptbull Read the prompt againbull Underline key wordsphrasesbull Number those elements that must be

            accomplished in the essaybull Do everything the prompt suggests

            address every part of the prompt

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            5

            Sample Prompts wNotation

            bull See Handoutsbull Annotate the Prompt to discover and stay

            focused on your TASK(S)bull Annotate the passage according to the

            TASK(S)bull Determine the Authorrsquos IntentPurpose in

            the passage

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            6

            Analysis

            bull Rhetorical ndash consider tone attitude point of view techniques diction imagery syntax language level

            bull Argument ndash consider tone attitude strategies emphasis diction imagery syntax appeals

            2

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            7

            General Analysis Terms(Recent Exams)

            bull ldquoCrafts the Textrdquobull Rhetorical Strategiesbull Most Compelling (ObservationArgument)bull Strategies Used (to Satirize)bull ldquoConveys the EffectFeelingetchelliprdquo

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            8

            Specific Terms

            bull Argumentsbull Assumptionsbull Sentence Structure Syntaxbull Tonebull Point of Viewbull Detail

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            9

            Consider Your Task

            bull Analyze techniquesbull ConveyDefine Attitudebull Achieve Purposebull Effect on AudienceReaderbull Reveal Differences in Purpose

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            10

            Authorial Intent

            bull Consider Purposebull Consider Audiencebull Consider Occasionbull What is the RHETORICAL purpose of the

            passagebull What techniques of LANGUAGE does the

            writer use to achieve that purpose

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            11

            2 Read the Passagebull Annotate as you readbull Identify subject and examples usedbull Mark diction ndash connotation and ironybull Use ofChoices in Imagery ndash parallel

            themes and symbolsbull Unusual Syntax andor Punctuationbull Connection andor Organization of ideas

            paragraphs sentences

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            12

            3 Organization

            bull Think before you writebull DO NOT begin by restating ie parroting

            the prompt word for wordbull Thesis need to be specific ndash how do the

            purpose and language interactbull Characterize the elements under analysis

            donrsquot just list them

            3

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            13

            Use DetailsExamples

            bull Quote from the passage liberallybull Use examples of diction details

            assumption figurative language etchellipbull Use short quotes ndash embed into your own

            statementsbull Always explain the writerrsquos purpose in

            including these devices

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            14

            Write about what you know

            bull You cannot possibly explore every rhetorical devicetechnique the author has used

            bull Select those for which you can explain the function and purpose

            bull Look for connections between the various devicesstrategies

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            15

            Writing the Body pararsquos

            bull Be thorough and specific ANALYZEbull Do not simply ldquopoint outrdquo strategiesbull Explain how they are usedbull Provide examples from the textbull Speculate as to why the author included

            them what is their effectbull How do they support the purpose

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            16

            Focus on Function

            bull Donrsquot guess about the name of a devicebull If you arenrsquot sure if the name is

            onomatopoeia or oxymoron or metonymy then donrsquot use the term

            bull But do include the ldquobuzzrdquo and ldquoloud silencerdquo and ldquothe crownrdquo hellip

            bull And then discuss HOW they contribute to the selection

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            17

            A Good Length

            bull No magic number of paragraphsbull Divide into paragraphs ndash donrsquot write one long

            paragraph ndash find natural breaks and indentbull Find a pattern of organization order of

            appearance words to phrases to paragraphshellipbull WATCH YOUR TIME ndash you want to include

            language from the WHOLE passage

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            18

            Style and Voice

            bull Write to express not to impress ndash use natural language

            bull Demonstrate that you understand style ndashshow how the author developed the selection to create a desired effect

            bull Maintain an economy of language ndash say much with few words - CONCISION

            4

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            19

            Style and Voice (contrsquod)

            bull Best to use third person (he she they) rather than first person

            bull Try to use present tense when discussing literaturewritten text

            bull Write legibly ndash the readers cannot reward you for what you do well if they cannot read it

            bull Let your work stand on its own merits ndash no pity notes (ldquoI was up all nightrdquo etchellip

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            20

            Verbs that contribute

            bull Chroniclesbull Delineatesbull Demonstratesbull Depictsbull Exemplifiesbull Featuresbull Illuminates

            bull Portraysbull Reflectsbull Specifiesbull Suggestsbull Illustratesbull DO NOT USE

            ndash goes shows tells

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            21

            Argumentation

            bull Defend ndash Support ndash agree completelybull Challenge ndash Dispute ndash disagree

            completelybull Qualify ndash means to agree or disagree

            except in certain circumstancesbull Choose the approach for which you can

            find the most evidence Take a stand Donrsquot straddle the fence

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            22

            Step One

            bull Determine the point of the author in the passage

            bull Develop you own position on that point (Agree Disagree Qualify)

            bull Choose the side for which you have the most detail for support

            bull This provides the details for you introduction

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            23

            Finding Evidence (details)

            bull If appropriate find details from a variety of sources

            bull Use historybull Use sciencebull Use literaturebull Use current eventsbull Use personal observation

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            24

            Be Specific with Details

            bull Reasons ndash use illustrationsbull Examples ndash include names titlesbull Incidents ndash include dates placesbull FactsStatistics ndash DO NOT make them upbull Personal Experience ndash donrsquot generalize

            use names places

            5

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            25

            Use Quality Detail

            bull Avoid inaccuracies ndash BE RIGHTbull Add as many specifics as possible ndash

            specific names specific dates specific titles

            bull Be coherent ndash include only RELEVANT detailshellipmore is NOT necessarily merrierhellipdonrsquot include details that donrsquot directly support your point

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            26

            Organize the Argument

            bull Write a strong thesis ndash state your position clearly

            bull Formulate 3-4 paragraphsbull Admit the opposition ndash acknowledge the

            opposing argumentbull Make your points relevant and accuratebull Add a conclusion

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            27

            Argument Intro

            bull Write a short intro in which youhellipbull Explain the position of the authorbull Present your position and any background

            the reader needs to knowbull Include a strong thesis ndash one that clearly

            presents the position (defend challenge qualify)

            bull Do NOT repeat the promptBroward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            28

            Concession

            bull Think of the argument the opposing side might propose

            bull Be willing to concede a pointbull Think of ways to acknowledge those

            arguments and refute thembull Might place after your introduction donrsquot

            spend more than two sentences

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            29

            The Body

            bull Start with the weakest and end with the strongest

            bull Divide your assertions into paragraphs with the appropriate support in each

            bull Apply effective transitions to match the organization of the content

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            30

            Conclusion

            bull Write a brief conclusion in which you return - with force - to your position

            bull Try to come full-circle ndash return to idea you usedmentioned in your introduction

            bull Consider analogies to your point in the introduction to avoid merely repeating the introduction

            6

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            31

            Voice and Style - redux

            bull Generally use a less formal style than with analysis essays

            bull Use first person if it seems naturalbull AVOID second person - ldquoyourdquobull Write naturally past tense is okaybull Use exact diction (avoid non-specific

            language ldquoonerdquo ldquothingrdquo etchellip)

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            32

            Answer the Question

            bull Look for key wordsbull Choose only one approachbull Use a variety of evidencebull Be specific

            The study of rhetoric stretches back to classical Greece Today the term is most commonly taken pejoratively meaning bombastic or exaggerated language But rhetoric also has a neutral meaningmdashrhetoric as the art or science of persuasion by means of stylistic and structural techniques The study of rhetoric is useful because it encourages us to think of writing (and speaking for that matter) as a series of strategic choices Every attempt to put words together includes choices about which words to use and how to arrange them In this sense all writers like it or not use rhetoric

            Even simplicity is a rhetorical and political choice George Orwell for instance was a master of the plain style and used it to devastating effect in his political journalism and novels like 1984 and

            Animal Farm (for more on the rhetoric of simplicity see Hugh Kenner ldquoThe Politics of the Plain Stylerdquo in Literary Journalism in the Twentieth Century ed Norman Sims [New York Oxford University Press 1990])

            Rhetoric is also useful because it encourages thinking about ones audience Different audiences require different rhetorical choices In the following section Ill list some of the most pertinent rhetorical techniques or tropes when writing for academic audiences

            Diction

            Perhaps the first rhetorical choice a writer makesmdashand all writers make this choice whether they realize it or notmdashis diction or what words to use Different words even if they ostensibly mean the same thing have different connotations as the poet W H Auden well understood And different audiences have different expectations about appropriate diction Academic writing requires a more formal diction than everyday talk or journalism and within academe writing in the natural sciences requires a more formal diction than writing in the humanities Im no great fan of formality in writing but on the other hand one does need to know and respect the conventions of academe and other professional forums for serious writing

            ORIGINAL REVISION

            The layers of dirt were not messed up at all The sedimentary levels were undisturbed

            In general the more specialized training a profession requires the more it develops its own jargon as a way of differentiating those who have acquired the proper training from those who have not Twist a policemans arm for instance and you still probably couldnt get him to say car or robber or gun or hit or saw long professional training has habituated him to vehicle alleged perpetrator firearm strike and observed This kind of Official Style diction is all around us Students tend to learn it as the epitome of adult discourse and to go too far in incorporating it into their own writing

            My general advice regarding diction is to prefer plain to fancy unless the scholarly field expects a particular word Since appropriate choices vary within specific disciplines and sometimes between individual scholars my suggestion to students is to locate model

            authors within their chosen fields and study those authors diction and other rhetorical strategies Your professors can help you find good models ask them to recommend respected scholars who write well There are always at least a few in every field

            Parallelism

            Parallelism is one of the most useful and flexible rhetorical techniques It refers to any structure which brings together parallel elements be these nouns adjectives verbs adverbs or larger structures Done well parallelism imparts grace and power to passage

            The princes strength is also his weakness his self-reliance is also isolation

            In Machiavellis world Sheldon Wolin observes moral ends have been replaced by ironies answers have been replaced by questions

            The characters are all watching one another forming theories about one another listening contriving

            One side sees Lincoln as a bold and shrewd leader sincerely committed to abolishing slavery the other sees him as an opportunistic politician concerned only to defend the union in any way possible

            Problems with faulty parallelism are very common because many people know (or think they know) what they want to say and dont scrutinize what they actually write In the following examples the parallel elements in the revisions are emphasized

            ORIGINAL REVISION

            Someone acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

            Acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

            Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and the need to get rid of sentimental attachments

            Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and ridding oneself of sentimental attachments

            Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and he tries to avoid marriage

            Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and tries to avoid marriage

            One frequent source of trouble is nested listsmdashwhen one sublist occurs within another list The writer of this sentence lost track and thought the final comma signaled the last item in the main list

            Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American

            Association of Colleges and Universities

            The trick is to recognize that this is actually a nested list and maintain parallelism within each list

            Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers and in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

            The list is technically okay but its complexity makes it a bit hard to read One could rearrange the list to emphasize different elements and allow some pauses

            Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and in targeted outlets like the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

            Note that among other changes the revision adds the word targeted which makes it easier to get the lists logic As ever revision is equal parts rewriting and rethinking

            One other problem with parallelism is fairly common though this is a stylistic rather than a grammatical lapse Writers often repeat too much in the parallel elements detracting from parallelisms economical elegance

            ORIGINAL REVISION

            Socrates led a private life as opposed to a public life

            Socrates led a private rather than a public life

            Parallelism can be employed in many different ways One spin is inversion or chiasmus in which parallel elements are carefully reversed for emphasis A famous example comes from President John F Kennedys inaugural address (1961)

            Ask not what your country can do for youmdashask what you can do for your country

            Inversion often gains power by focusing attention on the ends of sentences where readers and listeners naturally pause Kennedys example shows this as does the next example from a 19th-century religious leader defending his honesty despite his change of religion

            I have changed in many things in this I have not

            By putting the prepositional phrase in this at the beginning of the second clause the speaker is able to end on that emphatic final not

            Repetition

            Repetition is one of the most useful tools available to writers Repetition allows a writer or speaker to hammer home an idea image or relationship to force the reader or listener to pay attention Two classic examples of the incredible power of repetition are Mark Antonys They are all honorable men speech in Shakespeares Julius Caesar (32) and Martin Luther King Jrs I have a dream speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963

            But many writers especially young writers fear repetition apparently believing that repeating a word within a single sentence or short passage is bad style H W Fowler author of the old but still recommended Fowlers Modern English Usage (1st ed 1926) called this tendency elegant variation and observed There are few literary faults so widely prevalent

            Heres an example of a student working hard to avoid repeating words within a sentence It doesnt work well the revision repeats words and reads more easily

            ORIGINAL REVISION

            The test group got an average of seven test questions correct the mean for the control category was thirteen valid responses

            The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group averaged thirteen

            The originals nervous avoidance of repetition (for instance using first group and then category) makes it a bit hard to follow The revision by contrast is easier to follow because it repeats words and syntactical structures Note that repetition allows the writer to cut some repeated elements and focus attention on the key information the contrast

            Practiced writers will also employ all sorts of variations on this pattern of repetition

            The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group thirteen

            The test group averaged seven correct answers to the control groups thirteen

            Another example of a writer afraid of repetition

            ORIGINAL REVISION

            First the North Koreans made an incursion almost all the way down the peninsula then Americans and South Korean forces drove back into the north

            First the North Koreans drove almost all the way down the peninsula then American and South Korean forces drove back into the north

            In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

            Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

            We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

            Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

            Using tenses consistently

            Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

            ORIGINAL REVISION

            Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

            Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

            The historical present

            One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

            ORIGINAL REVISION

            Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

            Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

            Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

            But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

            ORIGINAL REVISION

            Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

            This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

            ORIGINAL REVISION

            A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

            A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

            But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

            Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

            Alliteration

            Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

            Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

            As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

            The rule of three

            This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

            Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

            doesnt try to soften his image

            A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

            The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

            Humor

            Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

            First and second person

            Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

            You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

            Questions and exclamations

            Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

            Placing emphasis

            If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

            These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

            ORIGINAL REVISION

            True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

            True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

            The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

            There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

            Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

            Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

            relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

            from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

            consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

            Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

            Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

            Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

            1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

            Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

            bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

            statements and actions essential to understanding a character

            bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

            bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

            bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

            choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

            bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

            yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

            intuits is of significance to understanding the text

            (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

            SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

            1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

            2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

            Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

            The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

            A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

            Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

            Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

            OR ndash

            The dog bit the man baring its teeth

            Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

            Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

            bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

            bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

            is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

            participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

            bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

            o Me Up At Does

            Me up at does

            out of the floor

            quietly Stare

            a poisoned mouse

            still who alive

            is asking What

            have I done that

            You wouldnt have

            In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

            The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

            Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

            A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

            B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

            1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

            D Variety of sentence patterns

            1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

            E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

            1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

            Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

            Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

            denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

            connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

            Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

            The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

            overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

            Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

            1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

            2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

            3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

            4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

            Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

            Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

            These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

            Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

            No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

            Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

            We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

            SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

            In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

            Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

            Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

            (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

            In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

            Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

            not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

            rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

            SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

            Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

            VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

            WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

            differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

            alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

            TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

            details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

            setting plot details point of view diction

            READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

            impact shock anger awareness connections

            contrasts mood images imagery tones

            Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

            Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

            but rather hywoamninnad

            ffiimonm

            snaafislaapffabuaain

            nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

            kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

            condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

            Contrast and Comparision

            or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

            Emphasis and Repetition

            or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

            ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

            Time

            oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

            rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

            in futur subsequently

            Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

            ound e de whenever op

            eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

            n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

            at the right before between

            in the foregr on this sid besiposite

            R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

            in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

            TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

            Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

            words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

            ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

            1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

            Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

            2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

            Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

            Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

            additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

            Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

            Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

            Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

            Words that Identify

            that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

            that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

            but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

            Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

            Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

            Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

            Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

            CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

            seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

            Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

            EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

            Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

            Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

            SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

            in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

            previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

            finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

            to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

            Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

            Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

            EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

            Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

            Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

            core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

            Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

            Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

            As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

            Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

            other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

            Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

            Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

            Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

            In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

            Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

            (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

            AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

            from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

            drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

            principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

            the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

            15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

            known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

            of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

            choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

            itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

            APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

            bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

            guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

            authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

            sense of urgency specific examples

            LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

            bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

            bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

            ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

            ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

            Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

            State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

            THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

            Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

            1

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            1

            AP English Languageand Composition

            Synthesis Question

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            2

            Format

            bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

            and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

            position on topic addressed in sources

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            3

            Sources

            bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

            other visual

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            4

            Types of Sources

            bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            5

            Synthesize the Argument

            bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

            bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

            bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

            bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            6

            Distinctions

            bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

            Source B etchellip)

            2

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            7

            Savvy Writers

            bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

            their argument

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            8

            Six-Part Approach

            bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            9

            Readhellip and Analyze

            bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

            makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

            assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            10

            Generalize

            bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

            bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

            bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

            bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            11

            Converse

            bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

            bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

            bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            12

            Finesse

            bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

            bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

            bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

            3

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            13

            Argue

            bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

            takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

            14

            Conclusion

            bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

            position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

            THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

            WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

            1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

            You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

            3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

            EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

            How to improve your essay writing grade

            1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

            exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

            Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

            The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

            EXAMPLE

            Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

            If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

            1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

            concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

            Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

            Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

            Weaving To break away from the formula

            1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

            2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

            3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

            4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

            EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

            1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

            2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

            earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

            3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

            4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

            5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

            ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

            6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

            7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

            8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

            his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

            work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

            your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

            develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

            bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

            1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

            Top Ten Mistakes

            Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

            An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

            Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

            And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

            10 Apostrophes

            Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

            WRONG RIGHT

            Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

            Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

            Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

            Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

            Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

            WRONG RIGHT

            The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

            The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

            For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

            Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

            There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

            Moses leadership

            Socrates wisdom

            Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

            Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

            8 Conjunction confusion

            Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

            WRONG RIGHT

            Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

            Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

            Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

            Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

            Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

            Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

            WRONG RIGHT

            Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

            Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

            6 Cannot

            One word not two (not can not)

            5 Affect and effect

            Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

            She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

            For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

            She affected the IRSs procedures

            WRONG RIGHT

            A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

            A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

            4 Intents and purposes

            Not intensive purposes

            WRONG RIGHT

            For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

            For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

            3 Plural or singular

            It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

            WRONG RIGHT

            The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

            The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

            Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

            2 Principalprinciple

            Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

            WRONG RIGHT

            Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

            Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

            Heres how to remember the difference

            principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

            principle e for ethics or elementary rule

            1 Itsits

            Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

            WRONG RIGHT

            The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

            The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

            Whos and whose have the same distinction

            WRONG RIGHT

            Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

            Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

            (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

            When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

            Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

            Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

            These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

            1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

            2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

            3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

            4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

            5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

            5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

            7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

            8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

            9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

            10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

            Why it matters

            In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

            What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

            Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

            hink

            • AP Review coverdoc
            • APMCPacketpdf
              • AP MC Reviewpdf
              • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                • Questions on the whole passage
                • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                  • Analysis of a paragraph
                  • Analysis of words or phrases
                    • Grammatical constructions
                    • Antecedents
                    • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                      • Vocabulary in context
                          • MCVocabdoc
                            • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                            • ToneStyle Words
                            • Grammatical Construction
                            • General Vocabulary
                              • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                              • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                              • ScorCalculpdf
                                • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                  • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                  • Rhetoricdoc
                                  • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                  • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                  • promptpdf
                                  • Annotating Textdoc
                                  • Syntaxdoc
                                    • SYNTAX
                                      • Improving writing
                                      • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                      • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                          • Diction and Tonedoc
                                            • Diction and Tone
                                              • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                              • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                              • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                              • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                              • Argumentationdoc
                                              • Argumentvocabdoc
                                              • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                              • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                • APSynandGenpdf
                                                  • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                  • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                  • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                    • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                      • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                      • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                        • 2005Bpdf
                                                        • 2006Bpdf

              (D) faulting (E) hunting Use of Footnotes The purpose of footnote 4 is to inform the reader that the quotation in line 49

              (A) has been attributed to three different designers (B) was first cited in 1918 (C) was the inspiration for an exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum (D) is an article in The Machine Age in America 1981-1941 written by Harry N Abrams Inc

              Terminology from past AP Tests Multiple Choice Questions D Fettrow

              Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurposeabstraction action verb alliteration allusion (literary historical) analogy analysis anecdote antithesis appeal to authority apostrophe argument assertion characterization citing of authorities colloquial expression commentary comparison concrete examples context counterbalance critique criticism data deduction description developing an argument

              diction digression discussion distinguish emphasis enumerate enunciate expand on expository extending an example fallacy extending a metaphor generalizations hypothesizing illuminate illustrate image implies irony issues justify juxtaposition narration onomatopoeia overstatement oxymoron paradox

              parallelism parody pathos personal observation personification praise proposal pun qualifying rebuttal refute reveal scientific term simile speculation subordinate clause summary (ize) symbol thesis transitions undercut understatement unfold taking exception unqualified assertion verbal irony

              ToneStyle Wordsabashed abhorring abstract admiring adoring affectionate agitated ambiguous ambivalent angry annoyed antagonistic anxious apathetic apprehensive arch awkward biting blunt boring

              brusque candid celebratory choleric combative complex confusing contemplative confident conciliatory condescending contemptuous cynicism dangerous defensive derisive despairing desperate detached didactic

              diffident earnest effusive elegiac empathetic emphatic enigmatic entrapped erratic euphoric fatalistic fateful fervent flippant foreboding gloomy growth hopeful hopeless hostile

              Terminology from past AP Tests Multiple Choice Questions D Fettrow

              incisive indecisive inflammatory informative innovative insolent intimate introspective ironic isolated jocund jovial laudatory lethargic lugubrious lyrical mock solemnity modest naive

              nostalgic objective ornamental parochial passionate personal pessimistic pointed prudent reassuring refined reflective resigned resentful respectful reticent sanguine self-assured self-deprecating

              self-aware sentimental skeptical solemnity speculative straightforward struggling subtle supportive sympathetic suspicious tentative vitriolic vivid whimsical wistful wry zealous

              Grammatical Constructionantecedent subject of sentence

              parallel structure prepositions

              General Vocabularyadmonitions advisability amplifying appease ascertain awesome barrenness blatant burdensome concept conspicuous contradictions contrived depiction definitive digressive discredit discursive dispense with diverse dubious dyspeptic

              emitting entrepreneur erratic exalted exclusive fateful foreknowledge futility hostile inanimate interlocked intimidate invalid linguistic jeremiads magnanimity mimicry monarch nomenclature objective particular perspective

              pervasive phenomena preceding predecessors pretext profound regal relentless resolve sensibility serenity staccato subtle subjective surpass tentative treachery undaunted undercut unique unrequited unsophisticated

              Sample Footnote Questions 1 Which of the following is an accurate reading of footnote 2

              (A) An article by John F Kasson appears on page 427 of Engineering (B) ldquoMachine Tools at the Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo was published in New York (C) The article ldquoEngineeringrdquo can be found on page 427 of ldquoMachine Tools at the

              Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo (D) ldquoMachine Tools at the Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo is an article published in the May

              26 1876 issue of Engineering (E) Engineering is an article cited by John F Kasson

              2 The purpose of footnote 4 is to inform the reader that the quotation in line 49

              (A) has been attributed to three different designers (B) was first cited in 1918 (C) was the inspiration for an exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum (D) is an article in The Machine Age in America 1981-1941 written by Harry N

              Abrams Inc (E) appears in a book written by Wilson Pilgrim and Tashjian and published in 1986

              3 Taken as a whole the footnotes suggest that

              (A) the author of the passage wants the text to present highly technical material (B) the author of the passage relies heavily on Kassonrsquos book (C) very little was written about the topic of machinery and ornamentation prior to

              1976 (D) engineering magazines are an essential source for technical writers (E) except in rare cases it is best to use the latest published work when documenting

              an idea or concept

              Answer Key 1 D 2 E 3 B

              1

              AP English Languageand Composition

              Effective Essay Writing for Rhetorical Analysis and

              Argumentation

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              2

              The Prompt

              bull The most wonderful essay ever written CANNOT score in the high range if its content is OFF PROMPT

              bull Make sure you are reading the prompt correctly and addressing what it is asking of you

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              3

              Types of Prompts

              bull Analysis (RhetoricalArgument)bull Argumentationbull Synthesis

              ldquoStudents should read essay prompts as texts making certain they have understood what they are

              being asked to dordquo ~ M Elkins

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              4

              1 Read the Prompt

              bull Read the promptbull Read the prompt againbull Underline key wordsphrasesbull Number those elements that must be

              accomplished in the essaybull Do everything the prompt suggests

              address every part of the prompt

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              5

              Sample Prompts wNotation

              bull See Handoutsbull Annotate the Prompt to discover and stay

              focused on your TASK(S)bull Annotate the passage according to the

              TASK(S)bull Determine the Authorrsquos IntentPurpose in

              the passage

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              6

              Analysis

              bull Rhetorical ndash consider tone attitude point of view techniques diction imagery syntax language level

              bull Argument ndash consider tone attitude strategies emphasis diction imagery syntax appeals

              2

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              7

              General Analysis Terms(Recent Exams)

              bull ldquoCrafts the Textrdquobull Rhetorical Strategiesbull Most Compelling (ObservationArgument)bull Strategies Used (to Satirize)bull ldquoConveys the EffectFeelingetchelliprdquo

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              8

              Specific Terms

              bull Argumentsbull Assumptionsbull Sentence Structure Syntaxbull Tonebull Point of Viewbull Detail

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              9

              Consider Your Task

              bull Analyze techniquesbull ConveyDefine Attitudebull Achieve Purposebull Effect on AudienceReaderbull Reveal Differences in Purpose

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              10

              Authorial Intent

              bull Consider Purposebull Consider Audiencebull Consider Occasionbull What is the RHETORICAL purpose of the

              passagebull What techniques of LANGUAGE does the

              writer use to achieve that purpose

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              11

              2 Read the Passagebull Annotate as you readbull Identify subject and examples usedbull Mark diction ndash connotation and ironybull Use ofChoices in Imagery ndash parallel

              themes and symbolsbull Unusual Syntax andor Punctuationbull Connection andor Organization of ideas

              paragraphs sentences

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              12

              3 Organization

              bull Think before you writebull DO NOT begin by restating ie parroting

              the prompt word for wordbull Thesis need to be specific ndash how do the

              purpose and language interactbull Characterize the elements under analysis

              donrsquot just list them

              3

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              13

              Use DetailsExamples

              bull Quote from the passage liberallybull Use examples of diction details

              assumption figurative language etchellipbull Use short quotes ndash embed into your own

              statementsbull Always explain the writerrsquos purpose in

              including these devices

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              14

              Write about what you know

              bull You cannot possibly explore every rhetorical devicetechnique the author has used

              bull Select those for which you can explain the function and purpose

              bull Look for connections between the various devicesstrategies

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              15

              Writing the Body pararsquos

              bull Be thorough and specific ANALYZEbull Do not simply ldquopoint outrdquo strategiesbull Explain how they are usedbull Provide examples from the textbull Speculate as to why the author included

              them what is their effectbull How do they support the purpose

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              16

              Focus on Function

              bull Donrsquot guess about the name of a devicebull If you arenrsquot sure if the name is

              onomatopoeia or oxymoron or metonymy then donrsquot use the term

              bull But do include the ldquobuzzrdquo and ldquoloud silencerdquo and ldquothe crownrdquo hellip

              bull And then discuss HOW they contribute to the selection

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              17

              A Good Length

              bull No magic number of paragraphsbull Divide into paragraphs ndash donrsquot write one long

              paragraph ndash find natural breaks and indentbull Find a pattern of organization order of

              appearance words to phrases to paragraphshellipbull WATCH YOUR TIME ndash you want to include

              language from the WHOLE passage

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              18

              Style and Voice

              bull Write to express not to impress ndash use natural language

              bull Demonstrate that you understand style ndashshow how the author developed the selection to create a desired effect

              bull Maintain an economy of language ndash say much with few words - CONCISION

              4

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              19

              Style and Voice (contrsquod)

              bull Best to use third person (he she they) rather than first person

              bull Try to use present tense when discussing literaturewritten text

              bull Write legibly ndash the readers cannot reward you for what you do well if they cannot read it

              bull Let your work stand on its own merits ndash no pity notes (ldquoI was up all nightrdquo etchellip

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              20

              Verbs that contribute

              bull Chroniclesbull Delineatesbull Demonstratesbull Depictsbull Exemplifiesbull Featuresbull Illuminates

              bull Portraysbull Reflectsbull Specifiesbull Suggestsbull Illustratesbull DO NOT USE

              ndash goes shows tells

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              21

              Argumentation

              bull Defend ndash Support ndash agree completelybull Challenge ndash Dispute ndash disagree

              completelybull Qualify ndash means to agree or disagree

              except in certain circumstancesbull Choose the approach for which you can

              find the most evidence Take a stand Donrsquot straddle the fence

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              22

              Step One

              bull Determine the point of the author in the passage

              bull Develop you own position on that point (Agree Disagree Qualify)

              bull Choose the side for which you have the most detail for support

              bull This provides the details for you introduction

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              23

              Finding Evidence (details)

              bull If appropriate find details from a variety of sources

              bull Use historybull Use sciencebull Use literaturebull Use current eventsbull Use personal observation

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              24

              Be Specific with Details

              bull Reasons ndash use illustrationsbull Examples ndash include names titlesbull Incidents ndash include dates placesbull FactsStatistics ndash DO NOT make them upbull Personal Experience ndash donrsquot generalize

              use names places

              5

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              25

              Use Quality Detail

              bull Avoid inaccuracies ndash BE RIGHTbull Add as many specifics as possible ndash

              specific names specific dates specific titles

              bull Be coherent ndash include only RELEVANT detailshellipmore is NOT necessarily merrierhellipdonrsquot include details that donrsquot directly support your point

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              26

              Organize the Argument

              bull Write a strong thesis ndash state your position clearly

              bull Formulate 3-4 paragraphsbull Admit the opposition ndash acknowledge the

              opposing argumentbull Make your points relevant and accuratebull Add a conclusion

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              27

              Argument Intro

              bull Write a short intro in which youhellipbull Explain the position of the authorbull Present your position and any background

              the reader needs to knowbull Include a strong thesis ndash one that clearly

              presents the position (defend challenge qualify)

              bull Do NOT repeat the promptBroward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              28

              Concession

              bull Think of the argument the opposing side might propose

              bull Be willing to concede a pointbull Think of ways to acknowledge those

              arguments and refute thembull Might place after your introduction donrsquot

              spend more than two sentences

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              29

              The Body

              bull Start with the weakest and end with the strongest

              bull Divide your assertions into paragraphs with the appropriate support in each

              bull Apply effective transitions to match the organization of the content

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              30

              Conclusion

              bull Write a brief conclusion in which you return - with force - to your position

              bull Try to come full-circle ndash return to idea you usedmentioned in your introduction

              bull Consider analogies to your point in the introduction to avoid merely repeating the introduction

              6

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              31

              Voice and Style - redux

              bull Generally use a less formal style than with analysis essays

              bull Use first person if it seems naturalbull AVOID second person - ldquoyourdquobull Write naturally past tense is okaybull Use exact diction (avoid non-specific

              language ldquoonerdquo ldquothingrdquo etchellip)

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              32

              Answer the Question

              bull Look for key wordsbull Choose only one approachbull Use a variety of evidencebull Be specific

              The study of rhetoric stretches back to classical Greece Today the term is most commonly taken pejoratively meaning bombastic or exaggerated language But rhetoric also has a neutral meaningmdashrhetoric as the art or science of persuasion by means of stylistic and structural techniques The study of rhetoric is useful because it encourages us to think of writing (and speaking for that matter) as a series of strategic choices Every attempt to put words together includes choices about which words to use and how to arrange them In this sense all writers like it or not use rhetoric

              Even simplicity is a rhetorical and political choice George Orwell for instance was a master of the plain style and used it to devastating effect in his political journalism and novels like 1984 and

              Animal Farm (for more on the rhetoric of simplicity see Hugh Kenner ldquoThe Politics of the Plain Stylerdquo in Literary Journalism in the Twentieth Century ed Norman Sims [New York Oxford University Press 1990])

              Rhetoric is also useful because it encourages thinking about ones audience Different audiences require different rhetorical choices In the following section Ill list some of the most pertinent rhetorical techniques or tropes when writing for academic audiences

              Diction

              Perhaps the first rhetorical choice a writer makesmdashand all writers make this choice whether they realize it or notmdashis diction or what words to use Different words even if they ostensibly mean the same thing have different connotations as the poet W H Auden well understood And different audiences have different expectations about appropriate diction Academic writing requires a more formal diction than everyday talk or journalism and within academe writing in the natural sciences requires a more formal diction than writing in the humanities Im no great fan of formality in writing but on the other hand one does need to know and respect the conventions of academe and other professional forums for serious writing

              ORIGINAL REVISION

              The layers of dirt were not messed up at all The sedimentary levels were undisturbed

              In general the more specialized training a profession requires the more it develops its own jargon as a way of differentiating those who have acquired the proper training from those who have not Twist a policemans arm for instance and you still probably couldnt get him to say car or robber or gun or hit or saw long professional training has habituated him to vehicle alleged perpetrator firearm strike and observed This kind of Official Style diction is all around us Students tend to learn it as the epitome of adult discourse and to go too far in incorporating it into their own writing

              My general advice regarding diction is to prefer plain to fancy unless the scholarly field expects a particular word Since appropriate choices vary within specific disciplines and sometimes between individual scholars my suggestion to students is to locate model

              authors within their chosen fields and study those authors diction and other rhetorical strategies Your professors can help you find good models ask them to recommend respected scholars who write well There are always at least a few in every field

              Parallelism

              Parallelism is one of the most useful and flexible rhetorical techniques It refers to any structure which brings together parallel elements be these nouns adjectives verbs adverbs or larger structures Done well parallelism imparts grace and power to passage

              The princes strength is also his weakness his self-reliance is also isolation

              In Machiavellis world Sheldon Wolin observes moral ends have been replaced by ironies answers have been replaced by questions

              The characters are all watching one another forming theories about one another listening contriving

              One side sees Lincoln as a bold and shrewd leader sincerely committed to abolishing slavery the other sees him as an opportunistic politician concerned only to defend the union in any way possible

              Problems with faulty parallelism are very common because many people know (or think they know) what they want to say and dont scrutinize what they actually write In the following examples the parallel elements in the revisions are emphasized

              ORIGINAL REVISION

              Someone acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

              Acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

              Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and the need to get rid of sentimental attachments

              Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and ridding oneself of sentimental attachments

              Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and he tries to avoid marriage

              Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and tries to avoid marriage

              One frequent source of trouble is nested listsmdashwhen one sublist occurs within another list The writer of this sentence lost track and thought the final comma signaled the last item in the main list

              Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American

              Association of Colleges and Universities

              The trick is to recognize that this is actually a nested list and maintain parallelism within each list

              Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers and in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

              The list is technically okay but its complexity makes it a bit hard to read One could rearrange the list to emphasize different elements and allow some pauses

              Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and in targeted outlets like the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

              Note that among other changes the revision adds the word targeted which makes it easier to get the lists logic As ever revision is equal parts rewriting and rethinking

              One other problem with parallelism is fairly common though this is a stylistic rather than a grammatical lapse Writers often repeat too much in the parallel elements detracting from parallelisms economical elegance

              ORIGINAL REVISION

              Socrates led a private life as opposed to a public life

              Socrates led a private rather than a public life

              Parallelism can be employed in many different ways One spin is inversion or chiasmus in which parallel elements are carefully reversed for emphasis A famous example comes from President John F Kennedys inaugural address (1961)

              Ask not what your country can do for youmdashask what you can do for your country

              Inversion often gains power by focusing attention on the ends of sentences where readers and listeners naturally pause Kennedys example shows this as does the next example from a 19th-century religious leader defending his honesty despite his change of religion

              I have changed in many things in this I have not

              By putting the prepositional phrase in this at the beginning of the second clause the speaker is able to end on that emphatic final not

              Repetition

              Repetition is one of the most useful tools available to writers Repetition allows a writer or speaker to hammer home an idea image or relationship to force the reader or listener to pay attention Two classic examples of the incredible power of repetition are Mark Antonys They are all honorable men speech in Shakespeares Julius Caesar (32) and Martin Luther King Jrs I have a dream speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963

              But many writers especially young writers fear repetition apparently believing that repeating a word within a single sentence or short passage is bad style H W Fowler author of the old but still recommended Fowlers Modern English Usage (1st ed 1926) called this tendency elegant variation and observed There are few literary faults so widely prevalent

              Heres an example of a student working hard to avoid repeating words within a sentence It doesnt work well the revision repeats words and reads more easily

              ORIGINAL REVISION

              The test group got an average of seven test questions correct the mean for the control category was thirteen valid responses

              The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group averaged thirteen

              The originals nervous avoidance of repetition (for instance using first group and then category) makes it a bit hard to follow The revision by contrast is easier to follow because it repeats words and syntactical structures Note that repetition allows the writer to cut some repeated elements and focus attention on the key information the contrast

              Practiced writers will also employ all sorts of variations on this pattern of repetition

              The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group thirteen

              The test group averaged seven correct answers to the control groups thirteen

              Another example of a writer afraid of repetition

              ORIGINAL REVISION

              First the North Koreans made an incursion almost all the way down the peninsula then Americans and South Korean forces drove back into the north

              First the North Koreans drove almost all the way down the peninsula then American and South Korean forces drove back into the north

              In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

              Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

              We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

              Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

              Using tenses consistently

              Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

              ORIGINAL REVISION

              Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

              Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

              The historical present

              One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

              ORIGINAL REVISION

              Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

              Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

              Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

              But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

              ORIGINAL REVISION

              Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

              This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

              ORIGINAL REVISION

              A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

              A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

              But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

              Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

              Alliteration

              Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

              Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

              As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

              The rule of three

              This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

              Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

              doesnt try to soften his image

              A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

              The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

              Humor

              Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

              First and second person

              Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

              You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

              Questions and exclamations

              Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

              Placing emphasis

              If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

              These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

              ORIGINAL REVISION

              True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

              True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

              The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

              There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

              Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

              Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

              relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

              from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

              consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

              Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

              Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

              Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

              1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

              Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

              bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

              statements and actions essential to understanding a character

              bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

              bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

              bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

              choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

              bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

              yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

              intuits is of significance to understanding the text

              (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

              SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

              1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

              2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

              Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

              The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

              A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

              Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

              Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

              OR ndash

              The dog bit the man baring its teeth

              Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

              Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

              bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

              bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

              is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

              participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

              bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

              o Me Up At Does

              Me up at does

              out of the floor

              quietly Stare

              a poisoned mouse

              still who alive

              is asking What

              have I done that

              You wouldnt have

              In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

              The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

              Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

              A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

              B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

              1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

              D Variety of sentence patterns

              1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

              E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

              1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

              Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

              Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

              denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

              connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

              Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

              The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

              overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

              Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

              1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

              2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

              3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

              4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

              Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

              Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

              These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

              Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

              No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

              Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

              We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

              SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

              In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

              Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

              Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

              (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

              In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

              Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

              not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

              rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

              SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

              Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

              VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

              WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

              differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

              alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

              TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

              details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

              setting plot details point of view diction

              READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

              impact shock anger awareness connections

              contrasts mood images imagery tones

              Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

              Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

              but rather hywoamninnad

              ffiimonm

              snaafislaapffabuaain

              nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

              kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

              condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

              Contrast and Comparision

              or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

              Emphasis and Repetition

              or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

              ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

              Time

              oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

              rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

              in futur subsequently

              Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

              ound e de whenever op

              eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

              n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

              at the right before between

              in the foregr on this sid besiposite

              R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

              in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

              TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

              Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

              words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

              ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

              1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

              Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

              2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

              Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

              Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

              additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

              Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

              Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

              Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

              Words that Identify

              that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

              that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

              but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

              Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

              Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

              Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

              Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

              CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

              seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

              Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

              EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

              Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

              Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

              SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

              in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

              previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

              finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

              to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

              Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

              Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

              EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

              Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

              Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

              core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

              Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

              Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

              As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

              Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

              other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

              Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

              Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

              Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

              In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

              Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

              (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

              AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

              from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

              drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

              principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

              the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

              15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

              known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

              of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

              choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

              itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

              APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

              bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

              guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

              authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

              sense of urgency specific examples

              LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

              bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

              bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

              ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

              ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

              Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

              State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

              THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

              Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

              1

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              1

              AP English Languageand Composition

              Synthesis Question

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              2

              Format

              bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

              and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

              position on topic addressed in sources

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              3

              Sources

              bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

              other visual

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              4

              Types of Sources

              bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              5

              Synthesize the Argument

              bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

              bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

              bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

              bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              6

              Distinctions

              bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

              Source B etchellip)

              2

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              7

              Savvy Writers

              bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

              their argument

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              8

              Six-Part Approach

              bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              9

              Readhellip and Analyze

              bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

              makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

              assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              10

              Generalize

              bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

              bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

              bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

              bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              11

              Converse

              bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

              bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

              bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              12

              Finesse

              bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

              bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

              bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

              3

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              13

              Argue

              bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

              takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

              14

              Conclusion

              bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

              position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

              THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

              WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

              1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

              You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

              3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

              EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

              How to improve your essay writing grade

              1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

              exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

              Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

              The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

              EXAMPLE

              Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

              If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

              1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

              concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

              Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

              Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

              Weaving To break away from the formula

              1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

              2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

              3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

              4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

              EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

              1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

              2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

              earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

              3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

              4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

              5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

              ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

              6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

              7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

              8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

              his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

              work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

              your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

              develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

              bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

              1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

              Top Ten Mistakes

              Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

              An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

              Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

              And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

              10 Apostrophes

              Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

              WRONG RIGHT

              Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

              Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

              Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

              Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

              Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

              WRONG RIGHT

              The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

              The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

              For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

              Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

              There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

              Moses leadership

              Socrates wisdom

              Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

              Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

              8 Conjunction confusion

              Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

              WRONG RIGHT

              Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

              Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

              Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

              Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

              Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

              Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

              WRONG RIGHT

              Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

              Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

              6 Cannot

              One word not two (not can not)

              5 Affect and effect

              Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

              She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

              For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

              She affected the IRSs procedures

              WRONG RIGHT

              A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

              A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

              4 Intents and purposes

              Not intensive purposes

              WRONG RIGHT

              For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

              For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

              3 Plural or singular

              It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

              WRONG RIGHT

              The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

              The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

              Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

              2 Principalprinciple

              Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

              WRONG RIGHT

              Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

              Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

              Heres how to remember the difference

              principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

              principle e for ethics or elementary rule

              1 Itsits

              Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

              WRONG RIGHT

              The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

              The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

              Whos and whose have the same distinction

              WRONG RIGHT

              Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

              Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

              (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

              When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

              Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

              Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

              These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

              1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

              2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

              3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

              4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

              5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

              5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

              7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

              8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

              9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

              10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

              Why it matters

              In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

              What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

              Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

              hink

              • AP Review coverdoc
              • APMCPacketpdf
                • AP MC Reviewpdf
                • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                  • Questions on the whole passage
                  • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                    • Analysis of a paragraph
                    • Analysis of words or phrases
                      • Grammatical constructions
                      • Antecedents
                      • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                        • Vocabulary in context
                            • MCVocabdoc
                              • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                              • ToneStyle Words
                              • Grammatical Construction
                              • General Vocabulary
                                • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                • ScorCalculpdf
                                  • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                    • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                    • Rhetoricdoc
                                    • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                    • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                    • promptpdf
                                    • Annotating Textdoc
                                    • Syntaxdoc
                                      • SYNTAX
                                        • Improving writing
                                        • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                        • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                            • Diction and Tonedoc
                                              • Diction and Tone
                                                • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                • Argumentationdoc
                                                • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                  • APSynandGenpdf
                                                    • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                    • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                    • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                      • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                        • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                        • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                          • 2005Bpdf
                                                          • 2006Bpdf

                Terminology from past AP Tests Multiple Choice Questions D Fettrow

                Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurposeabstraction action verb alliteration allusion (literary historical) analogy analysis anecdote antithesis appeal to authority apostrophe argument assertion characterization citing of authorities colloquial expression commentary comparison concrete examples context counterbalance critique criticism data deduction description developing an argument

                diction digression discussion distinguish emphasis enumerate enunciate expand on expository extending an example fallacy extending a metaphor generalizations hypothesizing illuminate illustrate image implies irony issues justify juxtaposition narration onomatopoeia overstatement oxymoron paradox

                parallelism parody pathos personal observation personification praise proposal pun qualifying rebuttal refute reveal scientific term simile speculation subordinate clause summary (ize) symbol thesis transitions undercut understatement unfold taking exception unqualified assertion verbal irony

                ToneStyle Wordsabashed abhorring abstract admiring adoring affectionate agitated ambiguous ambivalent angry annoyed antagonistic anxious apathetic apprehensive arch awkward biting blunt boring

                brusque candid celebratory choleric combative complex confusing contemplative confident conciliatory condescending contemptuous cynicism dangerous defensive derisive despairing desperate detached didactic

                diffident earnest effusive elegiac empathetic emphatic enigmatic entrapped erratic euphoric fatalistic fateful fervent flippant foreboding gloomy growth hopeful hopeless hostile

                Terminology from past AP Tests Multiple Choice Questions D Fettrow

                incisive indecisive inflammatory informative innovative insolent intimate introspective ironic isolated jocund jovial laudatory lethargic lugubrious lyrical mock solemnity modest naive

                nostalgic objective ornamental parochial passionate personal pessimistic pointed prudent reassuring refined reflective resigned resentful respectful reticent sanguine self-assured self-deprecating

                self-aware sentimental skeptical solemnity speculative straightforward struggling subtle supportive sympathetic suspicious tentative vitriolic vivid whimsical wistful wry zealous

                Grammatical Constructionantecedent subject of sentence

                parallel structure prepositions

                General Vocabularyadmonitions advisability amplifying appease ascertain awesome barrenness blatant burdensome concept conspicuous contradictions contrived depiction definitive digressive discredit discursive dispense with diverse dubious dyspeptic

                emitting entrepreneur erratic exalted exclusive fateful foreknowledge futility hostile inanimate interlocked intimidate invalid linguistic jeremiads magnanimity mimicry monarch nomenclature objective particular perspective

                pervasive phenomena preceding predecessors pretext profound regal relentless resolve sensibility serenity staccato subtle subjective surpass tentative treachery undaunted undercut unique unrequited unsophisticated

                Sample Footnote Questions 1 Which of the following is an accurate reading of footnote 2

                (A) An article by John F Kasson appears on page 427 of Engineering (B) ldquoMachine Tools at the Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo was published in New York (C) The article ldquoEngineeringrdquo can be found on page 427 of ldquoMachine Tools at the

                Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo (D) ldquoMachine Tools at the Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo is an article published in the May

                26 1876 issue of Engineering (E) Engineering is an article cited by John F Kasson

                2 The purpose of footnote 4 is to inform the reader that the quotation in line 49

                (A) has been attributed to three different designers (B) was first cited in 1918 (C) was the inspiration for an exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum (D) is an article in The Machine Age in America 1981-1941 written by Harry N

                Abrams Inc (E) appears in a book written by Wilson Pilgrim and Tashjian and published in 1986

                3 Taken as a whole the footnotes suggest that

                (A) the author of the passage wants the text to present highly technical material (B) the author of the passage relies heavily on Kassonrsquos book (C) very little was written about the topic of machinery and ornamentation prior to

                1976 (D) engineering magazines are an essential source for technical writers (E) except in rare cases it is best to use the latest published work when documenting

                an idea or concept

                Answer Key 1 D 2 E 3 B

                1

                AP English Languageand Composition

                Effective Essay Writing for Rhetorical Analysis and

                Argumentation

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                2

                The Prompt

                bull The most wonderful essay ever written CANNOT score in the high range if its content is OFF PROMPT

                bull Make sure you are reading the prompt correctly and addressing what it is asking of you

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

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                3

                Types of Prompts

                bull Analysis (RhetoricalArgument)bull Argumentationbull Synthesis

                ldquoStudents should read essay prompts as texts making certain they have understood what they are

                being asked to dordquo ~ M Elkins

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                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                4

                1 Read the Prompt

                bull Read the promptbull Read the prompt againbull Underline key wordsphrasesbull Number those elements that must be

                accomplished in the essaybull Do everything the prompt suggests

                address every part of the prompt

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                5

                Sample Prompts wNotation

                bull See Handoutsbull Annotate the Prompt to discover and stay

                focused on your TASK(S)bull Annotate the passage according to the

                TASK(S)bull Determine the Authorrsquos IntentPurpose in

                the passage

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                6

                Analysis

                bull Rhetorical ndash consider tone attitude point of view techniques diction imagery syntax language level

                bull Argument ndash consider tone attitude strategies emphasis diction imagery syntax appeals

                2

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                7

                General Analysis Terms(Recent Exams)

                bull ldquoCrafts the Textrdquobull Rhetorical Strategiesbull Most Compelling (ObservationArgument)bull Strategies Used (to Satirize)bull ldquoConveys the EffectFeelingetchelliprdquo

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                8

                Specific Terms

                bull Argumentsbull Assumptionsbull Sentence Structure Syntaxbull Tonebull Point of Viewbull Detail

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                9

                Consider Your Task

                bull Analyze techniquesbull ConveyDefine Attitudebull Achieve Purposebull Effect on AudienceReaderbull Reveal Differences in Purpose

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                10

                Authorial Intent

                bull Consider Purposebull Consider Audiencebull Consider Occasionbull What is the RHETORICAL purpose of the

                passagebull What techniques of LANGUAGE does the

                writer use to achieve that purpose

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                11

                2 Read the Passagebull Annotate as you readbull Identify subject and examples usedbull Mark diction ndash connotation and ironybull Use ofChoices in Imagery ndash parallel

                themes and symbolsbull Unusual Syntax andor Punctuationbull Connection andor Organization of ideas

                paragraphs sentences

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                12

                3 Organization

                bull Think before you writebull DO NOT begin by restating ie parroting

                the prompt word for wordbull Thesis need to be specific ndash how do the

                purpose and language interactbull Characterize the elements under analysis

                donrsquot just list them

                3

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                13

                Use DetailsExamples

                bull Quote from the passage liberallybull Use examples of diction details

                assumption figurative language etchellipbull Use short quotes ndash embed into your own

                statementsbull Always explain the writerrsquos purpose in

                including these devices

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                14

                Write about what you know

                bull You cannot possibly explore every rhetorical devicetechnique the author has used

                bull Select those for which you can explain the function and purpose

                bull Look for connections between the various devicesstrategies

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                15

                Writing the Body pararsquos

                bull Be thorough and specific ANALYZEbull Do not simply ldquopoint outrdquo strategiesbull Explain how they are usedbull Provide examples from the textbull Speculate as to why the author included

                them what is their effectbull How do they support the purpose

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                16

                Focus on Function

                bull Donrsquot guess about the name of a devicebull If you arenrsquot sure if the name is

                onomatopoeia or oxymoron or metonymy then donrsquot use the term

                bull But do include the ldquobuzzrdquo and ldquoloud silencerdquo and ldquothe crownrdquo hellip

                bull And then discuss HOW they contribute to the selection

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                17

                A Good Length

                bull No magic number of paragraphsbull Divide into paragraphs ndash donrsquot write one long

                paragraph ndash find natural breaks and indentbull Find a pattern of organization order of

                appearance words to phrases to paragraphshellipbull WATCH YOUR TIME ndash you want to include

                language from the WHOLE passage

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                18

                Style and Voice

                bull Write to express not to impress ndash use natural language

                bull Demonstrate that you understand style ndashshow how the author developed the selection to create a desired effect

                bull Maintain an economy of language ndash say much with few words - CONCISION

                4

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                19

                Style and Voice (contrsquod)

                bull Best to use third person (he she they) rather than first person

                bull Try to use present tense when discussing literaturewritten text

                bull Write legibly ndash the readers cannot reward you for what you do well if they cannot read it

                bull Let your work stand on its own merits ndash no pity notes (ldquoI was up all nightrdquo etchellip

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                20

                Verbs that contribute

                bull Chroniclesbull Delineatesbull Demonstratesbull Depictsbull Exemplifiesbull Featuresbull Illuminates

                bull Portraysbull Reflectsbull Specifiesbull Suggestsbull Illustratesbull DO NOT USE

                ndash goes shows tells

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                21

                Argumentation

                bull Defend ndash Support ndash agree completelybull Challenge ndash Dispute ndash disagree

                completelybull Qualify ndash means to agree or disagree

                except in certain circumstancesbull Choose the approach for which you can

                find the most evidence Take a stand Donrsquot straddle the fence

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                22

                Step One

                bull Determine the point of the author in the passage

                bull Develop you own position on that point (Agree Disagree Qualify)

                bull Choose the side for which you have the most detail for support

                bull This provides the details for you introduction

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                23

                Finding Evidence (details)

                bull If appropriate find details from a variety of sources

                bull Use historybull Use sciencebull Use literaturebull Use current eventsbull Use personal observation

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                24

                Be Specific with Details

                bull Reasons ndash use illustrationsbull Examples ndash include names titlesbull Incidents ndash include dates placesbull FactsStatistics ndash DO NOT make them upbull Personal Experience ndash donrsquot generalize

                use names places

                5

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                25

                Use Quality Detail

                bull Avoid inaccuracies ndash BE RIGHTbull Add as many specifics as possible ndash

                specific names specific dates specific titles

                bull Be coherent ndash include only RELEVANT detailshellipmore is NOT necessarily merrierhellipdonrsquot include details that donrsquot directly support your point

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                26

                Organize the Argument

                bull Write a strong thesis ndash state your position clearly

                bull Formulate 3-4 paragraphsbull Admit the opposition ndash acknowledge the

                opposing argumentbull Make your points relevant and accuratebull Add a conclusion

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                27

                Argument Intro

                bull Write a short intro in which youhellipbull Explain the position of the authorbull Present your position and any background

                the reader needs to knowbull Include a strong thesis ndash one that clearly

                presents the position (defend challenge qualify)

                bull Do NOT repeat the promptBroward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                28

                Concession

                bull Think of the argument the opposing side might propose

                bull Be willing to concede a pointbull Think of ways to acknowledge those

                arguments and refute thembull Might place after your introduction donrsquot

                spend more than two sentences

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                29

                The Body

                bull Start with the weakest and end with the strongest

                bull Divide your assertions into paragraphs with the appropriate support in each

                bull Apply effective transitions to match the organization of the content

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                30

                Conclusion

                bull Write a brief conclusion in which you return - with force - to your position

                bull Try to come full-circle ndash return to idea you usedmentioned in your introduction

                bull Consider analogies to your point in the introduction to avoid merely repeating the introduction

                6

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                31

                Voice and Style - redux

                bull Generally use a less formal style than with analysis essays

                bull Use first person if it seems naturalbull AVOID second person - ldquoyourdquobull Write naturally past tense is okaybull Use exact diction (avoid non-specific

                language ldquoonerdquo ldquothingrdquo etchellip)

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                32

                Answer the Question

                bull Look for key wordsbull Choose only one approachbull Use a variety of evidencebull Be specific

                The study of rhetoric stretches back to classical Greece Today the term is most commonly taken pejoratively meaning bombastic or exaggerated language But rhetoric also has a neutral meaningmdashrhetoric as the art or science of persuasion by means of stylistic and structural techniques The study of rhetoric is useful because it encourages us to think of writing (and speaking for that matter) as a series of strategic choices Every attempt to put words together includes choices about which words to use and how to arrange them In this sense all writers like it or not use rhetoric

                Even simplicity is a rhetorical and political choice George Orwell for instance was a master of the plain style and used it to devastating effect in his political journalism and novels like 1984 and

                Animal Farm (for more on the rhetoric of simplicity see Hugh Kenner ldquoThe Politics of the Plain Stylerdquo in Literary Journalism in the Twentieth Century ed Norman Sims [New York Oxford University Press 1990])

                Rhetoric is also useful because it encourages thinking about ones audience Different audiences require different rhetorical choices In the following section Ill list some of the most pertinent rhetorical techniques or tropes when writing for academic audiences

                Diction

                Perhaps the first rhetorical choice a writer makesmdashand all writers make this choice whether they realize it or notmdashis diction or what words to use Different words even if they ostensibly mean the same thing have different connotations as the poet W H Auden well understood And different audiences have different expectations about appropriate diction Academic writing requires a more formal diction than everyday talk or journalism and within academe writing in the natural sciences requires a more formal diction than writing in the humanities Im no great fan of formality in writing but on the other hand one does need to know and respect the conventions of academe and other professional forums for serious writing

                ORIGINAL REVISION

                The layers of dirt were not messed up at all The sedimentary levels were undisturbed

                In general the more specialized training a profession requires the more it develops its own jargon as a way of differentiating those who have acquired the proper training from those who have not Twist a policemans arm for instance and you still probably couldnt get him to say car or robber or gun or hit or saw long professional training has habituated him to vehicle alleged perpetrator firearm strike and observed This kind of Official Style diction is all around us Students tend to learn it as the epitome of adult discourse and to go too far in incorporating it into their own writing

                My general advice regarding diction is to prefer plain to fancy unless the scholarly field expects a particular word Since appropriate choices vary within specific disciplines and sometimes between individual scholars my suggestion to students is to locate model

                authors within their chosen fields and study those authors diction and other rhetorical strategies Your professors can help you find good models ask them to recommend respected scholars who write well There are always at least a few in every field

                Parallelism

                Parallelism is one of the most useful and flexible rhetorical techniques It refers to any structure which brings together parallel elements be these nouns adjectives verbs adverbs or larger structures Done well parallelism imparts grace and power to passage

                The princes strength is also his weakness his self-reliance is also isolation

                In Machiavellis world Sheldon Wolin observes moral ends have been replaced by ironies answers have been replaced by questions

                The characters are all watching one another forming theories about one another listening contriving

                One side sees Lincoln as a bold and shrewd leader sincerely committed to abolishing slavery the other sees him as an opportunistic politician concerned only to defend the union in any way possible

                Problems with faulty parallelism are very common because many people know (or think they know) what they want to say and dont scrutinize what they actually write In the following examples the parallel elements in the revisions are emphasized

                ORIGINAL REVISION

                Someone acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                Acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and the need to get rid of sentimental attachments

                Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and ridding oneself of sentimental attachments

                Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and he tries to avoid marriage

                Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and tries to avoid marriage

                One frequent source of trouble is nested listsmdashwhen one sublist occurs within another list The writer of this sentence lost track and thought the final comma signaled the last item in the main list

                Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American

                Association of Colleges and Universities

                The trick is to recognize that this is actually a nested list and maintain parallelism within each list

                Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers and in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                The list is technically okay but its complexity makes it a bit hard to read One could rearrange the list to emphasize different elements and allow some pauses

                Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and in targeted outlets like the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                Note that among other changes the revision adds the word targeted which makes it easier to get the lists logic As ever revision is equal parts rewriting and rethinking

                One other problem with parallelism is fairly common though this is a stylistic rather than a grammatical lapse Writers often repeat too much in the parallel elements detracting from parallelisms economical elegance

                ORIGINAL REVISION

                Socrates led a private life as opposed to a public life

                Socrates led a private rather than a public life

                Parallelism can be employed in many different ways One spin is inversion or chiasmus in which parallel elements are carefully reversed for emphasis A famous example comes from President John F Kennedys inaugural address (1961)

                Ask not what your country can do for youmdashask what you can do for your country

                Inversion often gains power by focusing attention on the ends of sentences where readers and listeners naturally pause Kennedys example shows this as does the next example from a 19th-century religious leader defending his honesty despite his change of religion

                I have changed in many things in this I have not

                By putting the prepositional phrase in this at the beginning of the second clause the speaker is able to end on that emphatic final not

                Repetition

                Repetition is one of the most useful tools available to writers Repetition allows a writer or speaker to hammer home an idea image or relationship to force the reader or listener to pay attention Two classic examples of the incredible power of repetition are Mark Antonys They are all honorable men speech in Shakespeares Julius Caesar (32) and Martin Luther King Jrs I have a dream speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963

                But many writers especially young writers fear repetition apparently believing that repeating a word within a single sentence or short passage is bad style H W Fowler author of the old but still recommended Fowlers Modern English Usage (1st ed 1926) called this tendency elegant variation and observed There are few literary faults so widely prevalent

                Heres an example of a student working hard to avoid repeating words within a sentence It doesnt work well the revision repeats words and reads more easily

                ORIGINAL REVISION

                The test group got an average of seven test questions correct the mean for the control category was thirteen valid responses

                The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group averaged thirteen

                The originals nervous avoidance of repetition (for instance using first group and then category) makes it a bit hard to follow The revision by contrast is easier to follow because it repeats words and syntactical structures Note that repetition allows the writer to cut some repeated elements and focus attention on the key information the contrast

                Practiced writers will also employ all sorts of variations on this pattern of repetition

                The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group thirteen

                The test group averaged seven correct answers to the control groups thirteen

                Another example of a writer afraid of repetition

                ORIGINAL REVISION

                First the North Koreans made an incursion almost all the way down the peninsula then Americans and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                First the North Koreans drove almost all the way down the peninsula then American and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

                Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

                We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

                Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

                Using tenses consistently

                Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

                ORIGINAL REVISION

                Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                The historical present

                One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

                ORIGINAL REVISION

                Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

                Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

                Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

                But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

                ORIGINAL REVISION

                Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

                This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

                ORIGINAL REVISION

                A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

                Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

                Alliteration

                Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

                Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

                As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

                The rule of three

                This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

                Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

                doesnt try to soften his image

                A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

                The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

                Humor

                Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

                First and second person

                Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

                You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

                Questions and exclamations

                Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

                Placing emphasis

                If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

                These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

                ORIGINAL REVISION

                True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

                True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

                The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

                There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

                Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

                Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

                relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

                from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

                consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

                Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

                Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

                Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

                1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

                Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

                bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

                statements and actions essential to understanding a character

                bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

                bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

                bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

                choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

                bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

                yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

                intuits is of significance to understanding the text

                (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

                SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                OR ndash

                The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                o Me Up At Does

                Me up at does

                out of the floor

                quietly Stare

                a poisoned mouse

                still who alive

                is asking What

                have I done that

                You wouldnt have

                In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                D Variety of sentence patterns

                1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                setting plot details point of view diction

                READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                impact shock anger awareness connections

                contrasts mood images imagery tones

                Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                but rather hywoamninnad

                ffiimonm

                snaafislaapffabuaain

                nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                Contrast and Comparision

                or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                Emphasis and Repetition

                or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                Time

                oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                in futur subsequently

                Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                ound e de whenever op

                eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                at the right before between

                in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                Words that Identify

                that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                sense of urgency specific examples

                LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                1

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                1

                AP English Languageand Composition

                Synthesis Question

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                2

                Format

                bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                position on topic addressed in sources

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                3

                Sources

                bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                other visual

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                4

                Types of Sources

                bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                5

                Synthesize the Argument

                bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                6

                Distinctions

                bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                Source B etchellip)

                2

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                7

                Savvy Writers

                bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                their argument

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                8

                Six-Part Approach

                bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                9

                Readhellip and Analyze

                bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                10

                Generalize

                bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                11

                Converse

                bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                12

                Finesse

                bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                3

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                13

                Argue

                bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                14

                Conclusion

                bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                How to improve your essay writing grade

                1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                EXAMPLE

                Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                Weaving To break away from the formula

                1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                Top Ten Mistakes

                Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                10 Apostrophes

                Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                WRONG RIGHT

                Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                WRONG RIGHT

                The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                Moses leadership

                Socrates wisdom

                Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                8 Conjunction confusion

                Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                WRONG RIGHT

                Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                WRONG RIGHT

                Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                6 Cannot

                One word not two (not can not)

                5 Affect and effect

                Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                She affected the IRSs procedures

                WRONG RIGHT

                A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                4 Intents and purposes

                Not intensive purposes

                WRONG RIGHT

                For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                3 Plural or singular

                It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                WRONG RIGHT

                The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                2 Principalprinciple

                Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                WRONG RIGHT

                Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                Heres how to remember the difference

                principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                1 Itsits

                Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                WRONG RIGHT

                The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                Whos and whose have the same distinction

                WRONG RIGHT

                Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                Why it matters

                In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                hink

                • AP Review coverdoc
                • APMCPacketpdf
                  • AP MC Reviewpdf
                  • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                    • Questions on the whole passage
                    • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                      • Analysis of a paragraph
                      • Analysis of words or phrases
                        • Grammatical constructions
                        • Antecedents
                        • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                          • Vocabulary in context
                              • MCVocabdoc
                                • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                • ToneStyle Words
                                • Grammatical Construction
                                • General Vocabulary
                                  • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                  • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                  • ScorCalculpdf
                                    • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                      • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                      • Rhetoricdoc
                                      • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                      • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                      • promptpdf
                                      • Annotating Textdoc
                                      • Syntaxdoc
                                        • SYNTAX
                                          • Improving writing
                                          • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                          • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                              • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                • Diction and Tone
                                                  • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                  • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                  • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                  • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                  • Argumentationdoc
                                                  • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                  • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                  • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                    • APSynandGenpdf
                                                      • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                      • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                      • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                        • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                          • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                          • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                            • 2005Bpdf
                                                            • 2006Bpdf

                  Terminology from past AP Tests Multiple Choice Questions D Fettrow

                  incisive indecisive inflammatory informative innovative insolent intimate introspective ironic isolated jocund jovial laudatory lethargic lugubrious lyrical mock solemnity modest naive

                  nostalgic objective ornamental parochial passionate personal pessimistic pointed prudent reassuring refined reflective resigned resentful respectful reticent sanguine self-assured self-deprecating

                  self-aware sentimental skeptical solemnity speculative straightforward struggling subtle supportive sympathetic suspicious tentative vitriolic vivid whimsical wistful wry zealous

                  Grammatical Constructionantecedent subject of sentence

                  parallel structure prepositions

                  General Vocabularyadmonitions advisability amplifying appease ascertain awesome barrenness blatant burdensome concept conspicuous contradictions contrived depiction definitive digressive discredit discursive dispense with diverse dubious dyspeptic

                  emitting entrepreneur erratic exalted exclusive fateful foreknowledge futility hostile inanimate interlocked intimidate invalid linguistic jeremiads magnanimity mimicry monarch nomenclature objective particular perspective

                  pervasive phenomena preceding predecessors pretext profound regal relentless resolve sensibility serenity staccato subtle subjective surpass tentative treachery undaunted undercut unique unrequited unsophisticated

                  Sample Footnote Questions 1 Which of the following is an accurate reading of footnote 2

                  (A) An article by John F Kasson appears on page 427 of Engineering (B) ldquoMachine Tools at the Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo was published in New York (C) The article ldquoEngineeringrdquo can be found on page 427 of ldquoMachine Tools at the

                  Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo (D) ldquoMachine Tools at the Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo is an article published in the May

                  26 1876 issue of Engineering (E) Engineering is an article cited by John F Kasson

                  2 The purpose of footnote 4 is to inform the reader that the quotation in line 49

                  (A) has been attributed to three different designers (B) was first cited in 1918 (C) was the inspiration for an exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum (D) is an article in The Machine Age in America 1981-1941 written by Harry N

                  Abrams Inc (E) appears in a book written by Wilson Pilgrim and Tashjian and published in 1986

                  3 Taken as a whole the footnotes suggest that

                  (A) the author of the passage wants the text to present highly technical material (B) the author of the passage relies heavily on Kassonrsquos book (C) very little was written about the topic of machinery and ornamentation prior to

                  1976 (D) engineering magazines are an essential source for technical writers (E) except in rare cases it is best to use the latest published work when documenting

                  an idea or concept

                  Answer Key 1 D 2 E 3 B

                  1

                  AP English Languageand Composition

                  Effective Essay Writing for Rhetorical Analysis and

                  Argumentation

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  2

                  The Prompt

                  bull The most wonderful essay ever written CANNOT score in the high range if its content is OFF PROMPT

                  bull Make sure you are reading the prompt correctly and addressing what it is asking of you

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                  3

                  Types of Prompts

                  bull Analysis (RhetoricalArgument)bull Argumentationbull Synthesis

                  ldquoStudents should read essay prompts as texts making certain they have understood what they are

                  being asked to dordquo ~ M Elkins

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  4

                  1 Read the Prompt

                  bull Read the promptbull Read the prompt againbull Underline key wordsphrasesbull Number those elements that must be

                  accomplished in the essaybull Do everything the prompt suggests

                  address every part of the prompt

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  5

                  Sample Prompts wNotation

                  bull See Handoutsbull Annotate the Prompt to discover and stay

                  focused on your TASK(S)bull Annotate the passage according to the

                  TASK(S)bull Determine the Authorrsquos IntentPurpose in

                  the passage

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  6

                  Analysis

                  bull Rhetorical ndash consider tone attitude point of view techniques diction imagery syntax language level

                  bull Argument ndash consider tone attitude strategies emphasis diction imagery syntax appeals

                  2

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  7

                  General Analysis Terms(Recent Exams)

                  bull ldquoCrafts the Textrdquobull Rhetorical Strategiesbull Most Compelling (ObservationArgument)bull Strategies Used (to Satirize)bull ldquoConveys the EffectFeelingetchelliprdquo

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  8

                  Specific Terms

                  bull Argumentsbull Assumptionsbull Sentence Structure Syntaxbull Tonebull Point of Viewbull Detail

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  9

                  Consider Your Task

                  bull Analyze techniquesbull ConveyDefine Attitudebull Achieve Purposebull Effect on AudienceReaderbull Reveal Differences in Purpose

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  10

                  Authorial Intent

                  bull Consider Purposebull Consider Audiencebull Consider Occasionbull What is the RHETORICAL purpose of the

                  passagebull What techniques of LANGUAGE does the

                  writer use to achieve that purpose

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  11

                  2 Read the Passagebull Annotate as you readbull Identify subject and examples usedbull Mark diction ndash connotation and ironybull Use ofChoices in Imagery ndash parallel

                  themes and symbolsbull Unusual Syntax andor Punctuationbull Connection andor Organization of ideas

                  paragraphs sentences

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  12

                  3 Organization

                  bull Think before you writebull DO NOT begin by restating ie parroting

                  the prompt word for wordbull Thesis need to be specific ndash how do the

                  purpose and language interactbull Characterize the elements under analysis

                  donrsquot just list them

                  3

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  13

                  Use DetailsExamples

                  bull Quote from the passage liberallybull Use examples of diction details

                  assumption figurative language etchellipbull Use short quotes ndash embed into your own

                  statementsbull Always explain the writerrsquos purpose in

                  including these devices

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  14

                  Write about what you know

                  bull You cannot possibly explore every rhetorical devicetechnique the author has used

                  bull Select those for which you can explain the function and purpose

                  bull Look for connections between the various devicesstrategies

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  15

                  Writing the Body pararsquos

                  bull Be thorough and specific ANALYZEbull Do not simply ldquopoint outrdquo strategiesbull Explain how they are usedbull Provide examples from the textbull Speculate as to why the author included

                  them what is their effectbull How do they support the purpose

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  16

                  Focus on Function

                  bull Donrsquot guess about the name of a devicebull If you arenrsquot sure if the name is

                  onomatopoeia or oxymoron or metonymy then donrsquot use the term

                  bull But do include the ldquobuzzrdquo and ldquoloud silencerdquo and ldquothe crownrdquo hellip

                  bull And then discuss HOW they contribute to the selection

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  17

                  A Good Length

                  bull No magic number of paragraphsbull Divide into paragraphs ndash donrsquot write one long

                  paragraph ndash find natural breaks and indentbull Find a pattern of organization order of

                  appearance words to phrases to paragraphshellipbull WATCH YOUR TIME ndash you want to include

                  language from the WHOLE passage

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  18

                  Style and Voice

                  bull Write to express not to impress ndash use natural language

                  bull Demonstrate that you understand style ndashshow how the author developed the selection to create a desired effect

                  bull Maintain an economy of language ndash say much with few words - CONCISION

                  4

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  19

                  Style and Voice (contrsquod)

                  bull Best to use third person (he she they) rather than first person

                  bull Try to use present tense when discussing literaturewritten text

                  bull Write legibly ndash the readers cannot reward you for what you do well if they cannot read it

                  bull Let your work stand on its own merits ndash no pity notes (ldquoI was up all nightrdquo etchellip

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  20

                  Verbs that contribute

                  bull Chroniclesbull Delineatesbull Demonstratesbull Depictsbull Exemplifiesbull Featuresbull Illuminates

                  bull Portraysbull Reflectsbull Specifiesbull Suggestsbull Illustratesbull DO NOT USE

                  ndash goes shows tells

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  21

                  Argumentation

                  bull Defend ndash Support ndash agree completelybull Challenge ndash Dispute ndash disagree

                  completelybull Qualify ndash means to agree or disagree

                  except in certain circumstancesbull Choose the approach for which you can

                  find the most evidence Take a stand Donrsquot straddle the fence

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  22

                  Step One

                  bull Determine the point of the author in the passage

                  bull Develop you own position on that point (Agree Disagree Qualify)

                  bull Choose the side for which you have the most detail for support

                  bull This provides the details for you introduction

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  23

                  Finding Evidence (details)

                  bull If appropriate find details from a variety of sources

                  bull Use historybull Use sciencebull Use literaturebull Use current eventsbull Use personal observation

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  24

                  Be Specific with Details

                  bull Reasons ndash use illustrationsbull Examples ndash include names titlesbull Incidents ndash include dates placesbull FactsStatistics ndash DO NOT make them upbull Personal Experience ndash donrsquot generalize

                  use names places

                  5

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  25

                  Use Quality Detail

                  bull Avoid inaccuracies ndash BE RIGHTbull Add as many specifics as possible ndash

                  specific names specific dates specific titles

                  bull Be coherent ndash include only RELEVANT detailshellipmore is NOT necessarily merrierhellipdonrsquot include details that donrsquot directly support your point

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  26

                  Organize the Argument

                  bull Write a strong thesis ndash state your position clearly

                  bull Formulate 3-4 paragraphsbull Admit the opposition ndash acknowledge the

                  opposing argumentbull Make your points relevant and accuratebull Add a conclusion

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  27

                  Argument Intro

                  bull Write a short intro in which youhellipbull Explain the position of the authorbull Present your position and any background

                  the reader needs to knowbull Include a strong thesis ndash one that clearly

                  presents the position (defend challenge qualify)

                  bull Do NOT repeat the promptBroward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  28

                  Concession

                  bull Think of the argument the opposing side might propose

                  bull Be willing to concede a pointbull Think of ways to acknowledge those

                  arguments and refute thembull Might place after your introduction donrsquot

                  spend more than two sentences

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  29

                  The Body

                  bull Start with the weakest and end with the strongest

                  bull Divide your assertions into paragraphs with the appropriate support in each

                  bull Apply effective transitions to match the organization of the content

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  30

                  Conclusion

                  bull Write a brief conclusion in which you return - with force - to your position

                  bull Try to come full-circle ndash return to idea you usedmentioned in your introduction

                  bull Consider analogies to your point in the introduction to avoid merely repeating the introduction

                  6

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  31

                  Voice and Style - redux

                  bull Generally use a less formal style than with analysis essays

                  bull Use first person if it seems naturalbull AVOID second person - ldquoyourdquobull Write naturally past tense is okaybull Use exact diction (avoid non-specific

                  language ldquoonerdquo ldquothingrdquo etchellip)

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  32

                  Answer the Question

                  bull Look for key wordsbull Choose only one approachbull Use a variety of evidencebull Be specific

                  The study of rhetoric stretches back to classical Greece Today the term is most commonly taken pejoratively meaning bombastic or exaggerated language But rhetoric also has a neutral meaningmdashrhetoric as the art or science of persuasion by means of stylistic and structural techniques The study of rhetoric is useful because it encourages us to think of writing (and speaking for that matter) as a series of strategic choices Every attempt to put words together includes choices about which words to use and how to arrange them In this sense all writers like it or not use rhetoric

                  Even simplicity is a rhetorical and political choice George Orwell for instance was a master of the plain style and used it to devastating effect in his political journalism and novels like 1984 and

                  Animal Farm (for more on the rhetoric of simplicity see Hugh Kenner ldquoThe Politics of the Plain Stylerdquo in Literary Journalism in the Twentieth Century ed Norman Sims [New York Oxford University Press 1990])

                  Rhetoric is also useful because it encourages thinking about ones audience Different audiences require different rhetorical choices In the following section Ill list some of the most pertinent rhetorical techniques or tropes when writing for academic audiences

                  Diction

                  Perhaps the first rhetorical choice a writer makesmdashand all writers make this choice whether they realize it or notmdashis diction or what words to use Different words even if they ostensibly mean the same thing have different connotations as the poet W H Auden well understood And different audiences have different expectations about appropriate diction Academic writing requires a more formal diction than everyday talk or journalism and within academe writing in the natural sciences requires a more formal diction than writing in the humanities Im no great fan of formality in writing but on the other hand one does need to know and respect the conventions of academe and other professional forums for serious writing

                  ORIGINAL REVISION

                  The layers of dirt were not messed up at all The sedimentary levels were undisturbed

                  In general the more specialized training a profession requires the more it develops its own jargon as a way of differentiating those who have acquired the proper training from those who have not Twist a policemans arm for instance and you still probably couldnt get him to say car or robber or gun or hit or saw long professional training has habituated him to vehicle alleged perpetrator firearm strike and observed This kind of Official Style diction is all around us Students tend to learn it as the epitome of adult discourse and to go too far in incorporating it into their own writing

                  My general advice regarding diction is to prefer plain to fancy unless the scholarly field expects a particular word Since appropriate choices vary within specific disciplines and sometimes between individual scholars my suggestion to students is to locate model

                  authors within their chosen fields and study those authors diction and other rhetorical strategies Your professors can help you find good models ask them to recommend respected scholars who write well There are always at least a few in every field

                  Parallelism

                  Parallelism is one of the most useful and flexible rhetorical techniques It refers to any structure which brings together parallel elements be these nouns adjectives verbs adverbs or larger structures Done well parallelism imparts grace and power to passage

                  The princes strength is also his weakness his self-reliance is also isolation

                  In Machiavellis world Sheldon Wolin observes moral ends have been replaced by ironies answers have been replaced by questions

                  The characters are all watching one another forming theories about one another listening contriving

                  One side sees Lincoln as a bold and shrewd leader sincerely committed to abolishing slavery the other sees him as an opportunistic politician concerned only to defend the union in any way possible

                  Problems with faulty parallelism are very common because many people know (or think they know) what they want to say and dont scrutinize what they actually write In the following examples the parallel elements in the revisions are emphasized

                  ORIGINAL REVISION

                  Someone acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                  Acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                  Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and the need to get rid of sentimental attachments

                  Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and ridding oneself of sentimental attachments

                  Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and he tries to avoid marriage

                  Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and tries to avoid marriage

                  One frequent source of trouble is nested listsmdashwhen one sublist occurs within another list The writer of this sentence lost track and thought the final comma signaled the last item in the main list

                  Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American

                  Association of Colleges and Universities

                  The trick is to recognize that this is actually a nested list and maintain parallelism within each list

                  Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers and in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                  The list is technically okay but its complexity makes it a bit hard to read One could rearrange the list to emphasize different elements and allow some pauses

                  Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and in targeted outlets like the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                  Note that among other changes the revision adds the word targeted which makes it easier to get the lists logic As ever revision is equal parts rewriting and rethinking

                  One other problem with parallelism is fairly common though this is a stylistic rather than a grammatical lapse Writers often repeat too much in the parallel elements detracting from parallelisms economical elegance

                  ORIGINAL REVISION

                  Socrates led a private life as opposed to a public life

                  Socrates led a private rather than a public life

                  Parallelism can be employed in many different ways One spin is inversion or chiasmus in which parallel elements are carefully reversed for emphasis A famous example comes from President John F Kennedys inaugural address (1961)

                  Ask not what your country can do for youmdashask what you can do for your country

                  Inversion often gains power by focusing attention on the ends of sentences where readers and listeners naturally pause Kennedys example shows this as does the next example from a 19th-century religious leader defending his honesty despite his change of religion

                  I have changed in many things in this I have not

                  By putting the prepositional phrase in this at the beginning of the second clause the speaker is able to end on that emphatic final not

                  Repetition

                  Repetition is one of the most useful tools available to writers Repetition allows a writer or speaker to hammer home an idea image or relationship to force the reader or listener to pay attention Two classic examples of the incredible power of repetition are Mark Antonys They are all honorable men speech in Shakespeares Julius Caesar (32) and Martin Luther King Jrs I have a dream speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963

                  But many writers especially young writers fear repetition apparently believing that repeating a word within a single sentence or short passage is bad style H W Fowler author of the old but still recommended Fowlers Modern English Usage (1st ed 1926) called this tendency elegant variation and observed There are few literary faults so widely prevalent

                  Heres an example of a student working hard to avoid repeating words within a sentence It doesnt work well the revision repeats words and reads more easily

                  ORIGINAL REVISION

                  The test group got an average of seven test questions correct the mean for the control category was thirteen valid responses

                  The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group averaged thirteen

                  The originals nervous avoidance of repetition (for instance using first group and then category) makes it a bit hard to follow The revision by contrast is easier to follow because it repeats words and syntactical structures Note that repetition allows the writer to cut some repeated elements and focus attention on the key information the contrast

                  Practiced writers will also employ all sorts of variations on this pattern of repetition

                  The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group thirteen

                  The test group averaged seven correct answers to the control groups thirteen

                  Another example of a writer afraid of repetition

                  ORIGINAL REVISION

                  First the North Koreans made an incursion almost all the way down the peninsula then Americans and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                  First the North Koreans drove almost all the way down the peninsula then American and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                  In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

                  Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

                  We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

                  Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

                  Using tenses consistently

                  Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

                  ORIGINAL REVISION

                  Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                  Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                  The historical present

                  One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

                  ORIGINAL REVISION

                  Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

                  Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

                  Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

                  But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

                  ORIGINAL REVISION

                  Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

                  This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

                  ORIGINAL REVISION

                  A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                  A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                  But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

                  Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

                  Alliteration

                  Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

                  Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

                  As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

                  The rule of three

                  This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

                  Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

                  doesnt try to soften his image

                  A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

                  The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

                  Humor

                  Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

                  First and second person

                  Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

                  You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

                  Questions and exclamations

                  Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

                  Placing emphasis

                  If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

                  These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

                  ORIGINAL REVISION

                  True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

                  True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

                  The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

                  There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

                  Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

                  Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

                  relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

                  from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

                  consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

                  Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

                  Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

                  Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

                  1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

                  Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

                  bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

                  statements and actions essential to understanding a character

                  bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

                  bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

                  bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

                  choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

                  bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

                  yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

                  intuits is of significance to understanding the text

                  (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

                  SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                  1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                  2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                  Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                  The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                  A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                  Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                  Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                  OR ndash

                  The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                  Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                  Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                  bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                  bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                  is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                  participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                  bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                  o Me Up At Does

                  Me up at does

                  out of the floor

                  quietly Stare

                  a poisoned mouse

                  still who alive

                  is asking What

                  have I done that

                  You wouldnt have

                  In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                  The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                  Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                  A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                  B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                  1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                  D Variety of sentence patterns

                  1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                  E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                  1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                  Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                  Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                  denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                  connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                  Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                  The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                  overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                  Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                  1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                  2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                  3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                  4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                  Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                  Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                  These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                  Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                  No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                  Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                  We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                  SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                  In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                  Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                  Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                  (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                  In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                  Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                  not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                  rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                  SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                  Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                  VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                  WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                  differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                  alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                  TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                  details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                  setting plot details point of view diction

                  READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                  impact shock anger awareness connections

                  contrasts mood images imagery tones

                  Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                  Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                  but rather hywoamninnad

                  ffiimonm

                  snaafislaapffabuaain

                  nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                  kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                  condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                  Contrast and Comparision

                  or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                  Emphasis and Repetition

                  or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                  ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                  Time

                  oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                  rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                  in futur subsequently

                  Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                  ound e de whenever op

                  eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                  n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                  at the right before between

                  in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                  R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                  in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                  TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                  Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                  words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                  ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                  1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                  Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                  2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                  Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                  Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                  additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                  Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                  Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                  Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                  Words that Identify

                  that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                  that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                  but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                  Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                  Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                  Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                  Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                  CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                  seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                  Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                  EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                  Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                  Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                  SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                  in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                  previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                  finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                  to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                  Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                  Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                  EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                  Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                  Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                  core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                  Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                  Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                  As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                  Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                  other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                  Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                  Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                  Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                  In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                  Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                  (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                  AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                  from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                  drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                  principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                  the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                  15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                  known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                  of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                  choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                  itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                  APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                  bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                  guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                  authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                  sense of urgency specific examples

                  LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                  bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                  bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                  ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                  ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                  Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                  State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                  THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                  Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                  1

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  1

                  AP English Languageand Composition

                  Synthesis Question

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  2

                  Format

                  bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                  and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                  position on topic addressed in sources

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  3

                  Sources

                  bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                  other visual

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  4

                  Types of Sources

                  bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  5

                  Synthesize the Argument

                  bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                  bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                  bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                  bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  6

                  Distinctions

                  bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                  Source B etchellip)

                  2

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  7

                  Savvy Writers

                  bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                  their argument

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  8

                  Six-Part Approach

                  bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  9

                  Readhellip and Analyze

                  bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                  makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                  assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  10

                  Generalize

                  bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                  bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                  bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                  bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  11

                  Converse

                  bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                  bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                  bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  12

                  Finesse

                  bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                  bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                  bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                  3

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  13

                  Argue

                  bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                  takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                  14

                  Conclusion

                  bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                  position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                  THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                  WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                  1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                  You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                  3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                  EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                  How to improve your essay writing grade

                  1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                  exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                  Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                  The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                  EXAMPLE

                  Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                  If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                  1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                  concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                  Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                  Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                  Weaving To break away from the formula

                  1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                  2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                  3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                  4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                  EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                  1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                  2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                  earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                  3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                  4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                  5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                  ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                  6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                  7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                  8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                  his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                  work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                  your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                  develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                  bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                  1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                  Top Ten Mistakes

                  Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                  An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                  Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                  And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                  10 Apostrophes

                  Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                  WRONG RIGHT

                  Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                  Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                  Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                  Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                  Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                  WRONG RIGHT

                  The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                  The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                  For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                  Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                  There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                  Moses leadership

                  Socrates wisdom

                  Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                  Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                  8 Conjunction confusion

                  Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                  WRONG RIGHT

                  Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                  Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                  Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                  Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                  Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                  Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                  WRONG RIGHT

                  Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                  Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                  6 Cannot

                  One word not two (not can not)

                  5 Affect and effect

                  Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                  She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                  For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                  She affected the IRSs procedures

                  WRONG RIGHT

                  A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                  A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                  4 Intents and purposes

                  Not intensive purposes

                  WRONG RIGHT

                  For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                  For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                  3 Plural or singular

                  It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                  WRONG RIGHT

                  The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                  The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                  Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                  2 Principalprinciple

                  Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                  WRONG RIGHT

                  Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                  Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                  Heres how to remember the difference

                  principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                  principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                  1 Itsits

                  Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                  WRONG RIGHT

                  The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                  The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                  Whos and whose have the same distinction

                  WRONG RIGHT

                  Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                  Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                  (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                  When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                  Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                  Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                  These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                  1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                  2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                  3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                  4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                  5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                  5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                  7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                  8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                  9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                  10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                  Why it matters

                  In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                  What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                  Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                  hink

                  • AP Review coverdoc
                  • APMCPacketpdf
                    • AP MC Reviewpdf
                    • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                      • Questions on the whole passage
                      • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                        • Analysis of a paragraph
                        • Analysis of words or phrases
                          • Grammatical constructions
                          • Antecedents
                          • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                            • Vocabulary in context
                                • MCVocabdoc
                                  • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                  • ToneStyle Words
                                  • Grammatical Construction
                                  • General Vocabulary
                                    • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                    • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                    • ScorCalculpdf
                                      • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                        • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                        • Rhetoricdoc
                                        • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                        • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                        • promptpdf
                                        • Annotating Textdoc
                                        • Syntaxdoc
                                          • SYNTAX
                                            • Improving writing
                                            • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                            • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                  • Diction and Tone
                                                    • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                    • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                    • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                    • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                    • Argumentationdoc
                                                    • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                    • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                    • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                      • APSynandGenpdf
                                                        • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                        • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                        • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                          • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                            • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                            • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                              • 2005Bpdf
                                                              • 2006Bpdf

                    Sample Footnote Questions 1 Which of the following is an accurate reading of footnote 2

                    (A) An article by John F Kasson appears on page 427 of Engineering (B) ldquoMachine Tools at the Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo was published in New York (C) The article ldquoEngineeringrdquo can be found on page 427 of ldquoMachine Tools at the

                    Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo (D) ldquoMachine Tools at the Philadelphia Exhibitionrdquo is an article published in the May

                    26 1876 issue of Engineering (E) Engineering is an article cited by John F Kasson

                    2 The purpose of footnote 4 is to inform the reader that the quotation in line 49

                    (A) has been attributed to three different designers (B) was first cited in 1918 (C) was the inspiration for an exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum (D) is an article in The Machine Age in America 1981-1941 written by Harry N

                    Abrams Inc (E) appears in a book written by Wilson Pilgrim and Tashjian and published in 1986

                    3 Taken as a whole the footnotes suggest that

                    (A) the author of the passage wants the text to present highly technical material (B) the author of the passage relies heavily on Kassonrsquos book (C) very little was written about the topic of machinery and ornamentation prior to

                    1976 (D) engineering magazines are an essential source for technical writers (E) except in rare cases it is best to use the latest published work when documenting

                    an idea or concept

                    Answer Key 1 D 2 E 3 B

                    1

                    AP English Languageand Composition

                    Effective Essay Writing for Rhetorical Analysis and

                    Argumentation

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    2

                    The Prompt

                    bull The most wonderful essay ever written CANNOT score in the high range if its content is OFF PROMPT

                    bull Make sure you are reading the prompt correctly and addressing what it is asking of you

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    3

                    Types of Prompts

                    bull Analysis (RhetoricalArgument)bull Argumentationbull Synthesis

                    ldquoStudents should read essay prompts as texts making certain they have understood what they are

                    being asked to dordquo ~ M Elkins

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    4

                    1 Read the Prompt

                    bull Read the promptbull Read the prompt againbull Underline key wordsphrasesbull Number those elements that must be

                    accomplished in the essaybull Do everything the prompt suggests

                    address every part of the prompt

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    5

                    Sample Prompts wNotation

                    bull See Handoutsbull Annotate the Prompt to discover and stay

                    focused on your TASK(S)bull Annotate the passage according to the

                    TASK(S)bull Determine the Authorrsquos IntentPurpose in

                    the passage

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    6

                    Analysis

                    bull Rhetorical ndash consider tone attitude point of view techniques diction imagery syntax language level

                    bull Argument ndash consider tone attitude strategies emphasis diction imagery syntax appeals

                    2

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    7

                    General Analysis Terms(Recent Exams)

                    bull ldquoCrafts the Textrdquobull Rhetorical Strategiesbull Most Compelling (ObservationArgument)bull Strategies Used (to Satirize)bull ldquoConveys the EffectFeelingetchelliprdquo

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    8

                    Specific Terms

                    bull Argumentsbull Assumptionsbull Sentence Structure Syntaxbull Tonebull Point of Viewbull Detail

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    9

                    Consider Your Task

                    bull Analyze techniquesbull ConveyDefine Attitudebull Achieve Purposebull Effect on AudienceReaderbull Reveal Differences in Purpose

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    10

                    Authorial Intent

                    bull Consider Purposebull Consider Audiencebull Consider Occasionbull What is the RHETORICAL purpose of the

                    passagebull What techniques of LANGUAGE does the

                    writer use to achieve that purpose

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    11

                    2 Read the Passagebull Annotate as you readbull Identify subject and examples usedbull Mark diction ndash connotation and ironybull Use ofChoices in Imagery ndash parallel

                    themes and symbolsbull Unusual Syntax andor Punctuationbull Connection andor Organization of ideas

                    paragraphs sentences

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    12

                    3 Organization

                    bull Think before you writebull DO NOT begin by restating ie parroting

                    the prompt word for wordbull Thesis need to be specific ndash how do the

                    purpose and language interactbull Characterize the elements under analysis

                    donrsquot just list them

                    3

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    13

                    Use DetailsExamples

                    bull Quote from the passage liberallybull Use examples of diction details

                    assumption figurative language etchellipbull Use short quotes ndash embed into your own

                    statementsbull Always explain the writerrsquos purpose in

                    including these devices

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    14

                    Write about what you know

                    bull You cannot possibly explore every rhetorical devicetechnique the author has used

                    bull Select those for which you can explain the function and purpose

                    bull Look for connections between the various devicesstrategies

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    15

                    Writing the Body pararsquos

                    bull Be thorough and specific ANALYZEbull Do not simply ldquopoint outrdquo strategiesbull Explain how they are usedbull Provide examples from the textbull Speculate as to why the author included

                    them what is their effectbull How do they support the purpose

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    16

                    Focus on Function

                    bull Donrsquot guess about the name of a devicebull If you arenrsquot sure if the name is

                    onomatopoeia or oxymoron or metonymy then donrsquot use the term

                    bull But do include the ldquobuzzrdquo and ldquoloud silencerdquo and ldquothe crownrdquo hellip

                    bull And then discuss HOW they contribute to the selection

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    17

                    A Good Length

                    bull No magic number of paragraphsbull Divide into paragraphs ndash donrsquot write one long

                    paragraph ndash find natural breaks and indentbull Find a pattern of organization order of

                    appearance words to phrases to paragraphshellipbull WATCH YOUR TIME ndash you want to include

                    language from the WHOLE passage

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    18

                    Style and Voice

                    bull Write to express not to impress ndash use natural language

                    bull Demonstrate that you understand style ndashshow how the author developed the selection to create a desired effect

                    bull Maintain an economy of language ndash say much with few words - CONCISION

                    4

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    19

                    Style and Voice (contrsquod)

                    bull Best to use third person (he she they) rather than first person

                    bull Try to use present tense when discussing literaturewritten text

                    bull Write legibly ndash the readers cannot reward you for what you do well if they cannot read it

                    bull Let your work stand on its own merits ndash no pity notes (ldquoI was up all nightrdquo etchellip

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    20

                    Verbs that contribute

                    bull Chroniclesbull Delineatesbull Demonstratesbull Depictsbull Exemplifiesbull Featuresbull Illuminates

                    bull Portraysbull Reflectsbull Specifiesbull Suggestsbull Illustratesbull DO NOT USE

                    ndash goes shows tells

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    21

                    Argumentation

                    bull Defend ndash Support ndash agree completelybull Challenge ndash Dispute ndash disagree

                    completelybull Qualify ndash means to agree or disagree

                    except in certain circumstancesbull Choose the approach for which you can

                    find the most evidence Take a stand Donrsquot straddle the fence

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    22

                    Step One

                    bull Determine the point of the author in the passage

                    bull Develop you own position on that point (Agree Disagree Qualify)

                    bull Choose the side for which you have the most detail for support

                    bull This provides the details for you introduction

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    23

                    Finding Evidence (details)

                    bull If appropriate find details from a variety of sources

                    bull Use historybull Use sciencebull Use literaturebull Use current eventsbull Use personal observation

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    24

                    Be Specific with Details

                    bull Reasons ndash use illustrationsbull Examples ndash include names titlesbull Incidents ndash include dates placesbull FactsStatistics ndash DO NOT make them upbull Personal Experience ndash donrsquot generalize

                    use names places

                    5

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    25

                    Use Quality Detail

                    bull Avoid inaccuracies ndash BE RIGHTbull Add as many specifics as possible ndash

                    specific names specific dates specific titles

                    bull Be coherent ndash include only RELEVANT detailshellipmore is NOT necessarily merrierhellipdonrsquot include details that donrsquot directly support your point

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    26

                    Organize the Argument

                    bull Write a strong thesis ndash state your position clearly

                    bull Formulate 3-4 paragraphsbull Admit the opposition ndash acknowledge the

                    opposing argumentbull Make your points relevant and accuratebull Add a conclusion

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    27

                    Argument Intro

                    bull Write a short intro in which youhellipbull Explain the position of the authorbull Present your position and any background

                    the reader needs to knowbull Include a strong thesis ndash one that clearly

                    presents the position (defend challenge qualify)

                    bull Do NOT repeat the promptBroward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    28

                    Concession

                    bull Think of the argument the opposing side might propose

                    bull Be willing to concede a pointbull Think of ways to acknowledge those

                    arguments and refute thembull Might place after your introduction donrsquot

                    spend more than two sentences

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    29

                    The Body

                    bull Start with the weakest and end with the strongest

                    bull Divide your assertions into paragraphs with the appropriate support in each

                    bull Apply effective transitions to match the organization of the content

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    30

                    Conclusion

                    bull Write a brief conclusion in which you return - with force - to your position

                    bull Try to come full-circle ndash return to idea you usedmentioned in your introduction

                    bull Consider analogies to your point in the introduction to avoid merely repeating the introduction

                    6

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    31

                    Voice and Style - redux

                    bull Generally use a less formal style than with analysis essays

                    bull Use first person if it seems naturalbull AVOID second person - ldquoyourdquobull Write naturally past tense is okaybull Use exact diction (avoid non-specific

                    language ldquoonerdquo ldquothingrdquo etchellip)

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    32

                    Answer the Question

                    bull Look for key wordsbull Choose only one approachbull Use a variety of evidencebull Be specific

                    The study of rhetoric stretches back to classical Greece Today the term is most commonly taken pejoratively meaning bombastic or exaggerated language But rhetoric also has a neutral meaningmdashrhetoric as the art or science of persuasion by means of stylistic and structural techniques The study of rhetoric is useful because it encourages us to think of writing (and speaking for that matter) as a series of strategic choices Every attempt to put words together includes choices about which words to use and how to arrange them In this sense all writers like it or not use rhetoric

                    Even simplicity is a rhetorical and political choice George Orwell for instance was a master of the plain style and used it to devastating effect in his political journalism and novels like 1984 and

                    Animal Farm (for more on the rhetoric of simplicity see Hugh Kenner ldquoThe Politics of the Plain Stylerdquo in Literary Journalism in the Twentieth Century ed Norman Sims [New York Oxford University Press 1990])

                    Rhetoric is also useful because it encourages thinking about ones audience Different audiences require different rhetorical choices In the following section Ill list some of the most pertinent rhetorical techniques or tropes when writing for academic audiences

                    Diction

                    Perhaps the first rhetorical choice a writer makesmdashand all writers make this choice whether they realize it or notmdashis diction or what words to use Different words even if they ostensibly mean the same thing have different connotations as the poet W H Auden well understood And different audiences have different expectations about appropriate diction Academic writing requires a more formal diction than everyday talk or journalism and within academe writing in the natural sciences requires a more formal diction than writing in the humanities Im no great fan of formality in writing but on the other hand one does need to know and respect the conventions of academe and other professional forums for serious writing

                    ORIGINAL REVISION

                    The layers of dirt were not messed up at all The sedimentary levels were undisturbed

                    In general the more specialized training a profession requires the more it develops its own jargon as a way of differentiating those who have acquired the proper training from those who have not Twist a policemans arm for instance and you still probably couldnt get him to say car or robber or gun or hit or saw long professional training has habituated him to vehicle alleged perpetrator firearm strike and observed This kind of Official Style diction is all around us Students tend to learn it as the epitome of adult discourse and to go too far in incorporating it into their own writing

                    My general advice regarding diction is to prefer plain to fancy unless the scholarly field expects a particular word Since appropriate choices vary within specific disciplines and sometimes between individual scholars my suggestion to students is to locate model

                    authors within their chosen fields and study those authors diction and other rhetorical strategies Your professors can help you find good models ask them to recommend respected scholars who write well There are always at least a few in every field

                    Parallelism

                    Parallelism is one of the most useful and flexible rhetorical techniques It refers to any structure which brings together parallel elements be these nouns adjectives verbs adverbs or larger structures Done well parallelism imparts grace and power to passage

                    The princes strength is also his weakness his self-reliance is also isolation

                    In Machiavellis world Sheldon Wolin observes moral ends have been replaced by ironies answers have been replaced by questions

                    The characters are all watching one another forming theories about one another listening contriving

                    One side sees Lincoln as a bold and shrewd leader sincerely committed to abolishing slavery the other sees him as an opportunistic politician concerned only to defend the union in any way possible

                    Problems with faulty parallelism are very common because many people know (or think they know) what they want to say and dont scrutinize what they actually write In the following examples the parallel elements in the revisions are emphasized

                    ORIGINAL REVISION

                    Someone acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                    Acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                    Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and the need to get rid of sentimental attachments

                    Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and ridding oneself of sentimental attachments

                    Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and he tries to avoid marriage

                    Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and tries to avoid marriage

                    One frequent source of trouble is nested listsmdashwhen one sublist occurs within another list The writer of this sentence lost track and thought the final comma signaled the last item in the main list

                    Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American

                    Association of Colleges and Universities

                    The trick is to recognize that this is actually a nested list and maintain parallelism within each list

                    Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers and in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                    The list is technically okay but its complexity makes it a bit hard to read One could rearrange the list to emphasize different elements and allow some pauses

                    Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and in targeted outlets like the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                    Note that among other changes the revision adds the word targeted which makes it easier to get the lists logic As ever revision is equal parts rewriting and rethinking

                    One other problem with parallelism is fairly common though this is a stylistic rather than a grammatical lapse Writers often repeat too much in the parallel elements detracting from parallelisms economical elegance

                    ORIGINAL REVISION

                    Socrates led a private life as opposed to a public life

                    Socrates led a private rather than a public life

                    Parallelism can be employed in many different ways One spin is inversion or chiasmus in which parallel elements are carefully reversed for emphasis A famous example comes from President John F Kennedys inaugural address (1961)

                    Ask not what your country can do for youmdashask what you can do for your country

                    Inversion often gains power by focusing attention on the ends of sentences where readers and listeners naturally pause Kennedys example shows this as does the next example from a 19th-century religious leader defending his honesty despite his change of religion

                    I have changed in many things in this I have not

                    By putting the prepositional phrase in this at the beginning of the second clause the speaker is able to end on that emphatic final not

                    Repetition

                    Repetition is one of the most useful tools available to writers Repetition allows a writer or speaker to hammer home an idea image or relationship to force the reader or listener to pay attention Two classic examples of the incredible power of repetition are Mark Antonys They are all honorable men speech in Shakespeares Julius Caesar (32) and Martin Luther King Jrs I have a dream speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963

                    But many writers especially young writers fear repetition apparently believing that repeating a word within a single sentence or short passage is bad style H W Fowler author of the old but still recommended Fowlers Modern English Usage (1st ed 1926) called this tendency elegant variation and observed There are few literary faults so widely prevalent

                    Heres an example of a student working hard to avoid repeating words within a sentence It doesnt work well the revision repeats words and reads more easily

                    ORIGINAL REVISION

                    The test group got an average of seven test questions correct the mean for the control category was thirteen valid responses

                    The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group averaged thirteen

                    The originals nervous avoidance of repetition (for instance using first group and then category) makes it a bit hard to follow The revision by contrast is easier to follow because it repeats words and syntactical structures Note that repetition allows the writer to cut some repeated elements and focus attention on the key information the contrast

                    Practiced writers will also employ all sorts of variations on this pattern of repetition

                    The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group thirteen

                    The test group averaged seven correct answers to the control groups thirteen

                    Another example of a writer afraid of repetition

                    ORIGINAL REVISION

                    First the North Koreans made an incursion almost all the way down the peninsula then Americans and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                    First the North Koreans drove almost all the way down the peninsula then American and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                    In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

                    Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

                    We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

                    Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

                    Using tenses consistently

                    Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

                    ORIGINAL REVISION

                    Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                    Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                    The historical present

                    One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

                    ORIGINAL REVISION

                    Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

                    Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

                    Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

                    But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

                    ORIGINAL REVISION

                    Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

                    This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

                    ORIGINAL REVISION

                    A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                    A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                    But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

                    Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

                    Alliteration

                    Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

                    Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

                    As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

                    The rule of three

                    This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

                    Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

                    doesnt try to soften his image

                    A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

                    The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

                    Humor

                    Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

                    First and second person

                    Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

                    You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

                    Questions and exclamations

                    Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

                    Placing emphasis

                    If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

                    These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

                    ORIGINAL REVISION

                    True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

                    True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

                    The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

                    There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

                    Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

                    Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

                    relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

                    from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

                    consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

                    Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

                    Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

                    Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

                    1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

                    Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

                    bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

                    statements and actions essential to understanding a character

                    bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

                    bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

                    bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

                    choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

                    bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

                    yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

                    intuits is of significance to understanding the text

                    (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

                    SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                    1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                    2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                    Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                    The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                    A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                    Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                    Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                    OR ndash

                    The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                    Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                    Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                    bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                    bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                    is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                    participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                    bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                    o Me Up At Does

                    Me up at does

                    out of the floor

                    quietly Stare

                    a poisoned mouse

                    still who alive

                    is asking What

                    have I done that

                    You wouldnt have

                    In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                    The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                    Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                    A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                    B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                    1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                    D Variety of sentence patterns

                    1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                    E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                    1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                    Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                    Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                    denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                    connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                    Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                    The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                    overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                    Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                    1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                    2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                    3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                    4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                    Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                    Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                    These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                    Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                    No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                    Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                    We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                    SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                    In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                    Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                    Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                    (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                    In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                    Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                    not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                    rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                    SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                    Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                    VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                    WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                    differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                    alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                    TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                    details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                    setting plot details point of view diction

                    READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                    impact shock anger awareness connections

                    contrasts mood images imagery tones

                    Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                    Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                    but rather hywoamninnad

                    ffiimonm

                    snaafislaapffabuaain

                    nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                    kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                    condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                    Contrast and Comparision

                    or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                    Emphasis and Repetition

                    or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                    ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                    Time

                    oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                    rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                    in futur subsequently

                    Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                    ound e de whenever op

                    eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                    n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                    at the right before between

                    in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                    R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                    in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                    TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                    Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                    words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                    ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                    1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                    Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                    2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                    Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                    Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                    additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                    Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                    Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                    Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                    Words that Identify

                    that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                    that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                    but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                    Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                    Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                    Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                    Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                    CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                    seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                    Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                    EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                    Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                    Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                    SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                    in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                    previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                    finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                    to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                    Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                    Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                    EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                    Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                    Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                    core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                    Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                    Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                    As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                    Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                    other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                    Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                    Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                    Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                    In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                    Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                    (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                    AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                    from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                    drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                    principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                    the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                    15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                    known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                    of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                    choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                    itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                    APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                    bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                    guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                    authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                    sense of urgency specific examples

                    LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                    bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                    bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                    ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                    ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                    Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                    State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                    THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                    Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                    1

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    1

                    AP English Languageand Composition

                    Synthesis Question

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    2

                    Format

                    bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                    and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                    position on topic addressed in sources

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    3

                    Sources

                    bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                    other visual

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    4

                    Types of Sources

                    bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    5

                    Synthesize the Argument

                    bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                    bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                    bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                    bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    6

                    Distinctions

                    bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                    Source B etchellip)

                    2

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    7

                    Savvy Writers

                    bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                    their argument

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    8

                    Six-Part Approach

                    bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    9

                    Readhellip and Analyze

                    bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                    makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                    assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    10

                    Generalize

                    bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                    bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                    bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                    bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    11

                    Converse

                    bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                    bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                    bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    12

                    Finesse

                    bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                    bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                    bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                    3

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    13

                    Argue

                    bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                    takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                    14

                    Conclusion

                    bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                    position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                    THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                    WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                    1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                    You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                    3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                    EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                    How to improve your essay writing grade

                    1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                    exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                    Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                    The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                    EXAMPLE

                    Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                    If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                    1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                    concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                    Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                    Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                    Weaving To break away from the formula

                    1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                    2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                    3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                    4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                    EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                    1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                    2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                    earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                    3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                    4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                    5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                    ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                    6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                    7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                    8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                    his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                    work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                    your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                    develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                    bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                    1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                    Top Ten Mistakes

                    Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                    An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                    Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                    And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                    10 Apostrophes

                    Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                    WRONG RIGHT

                    Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                    Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                    Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                    Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                    Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                    WRONG RIGHT

                    The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                    The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                    For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                    Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                    There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                    Moses leadership

                    Socrates wisdom

                    Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                    Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                    8 Conjunction confusion

                    Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                    WRONG RIGHT

                    Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                    Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                    Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                    Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                    Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                    Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                    WRONG RIGHT

                    Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                    Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                    6 Cannot

                    One word not two (not can not)

                    5 Affect and effect

                    Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                    She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                    For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                    She affected the IRSs procedures

                    WRONG RIGHT

                    A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                    A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                    4 Intents and purposes

                    Not intensive purposes

                    WRONG RIGHT

                    For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                    For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                    3 Plural or singular

                    It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                    WRONG RIGHT

                    The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                    The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                    Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                    2 Principalprinciple

                    Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                    WRONG RIGHT

                    Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                    Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                    Heres how to remember the difference

                    principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                    principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                    1 Itsits

                    Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                    WRONG RIGHT

                    The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                    The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                    Whos and whose have the same distinction

                    WRONG RIGHT

                    Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                    Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                    (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                    When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                    Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                    Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                    These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                    1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                    2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                    3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                    4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                    5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                    5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                    7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                    8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                    9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                    10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                    Why it matters

                    In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                    What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                    Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                    hink

                    • AP Review coverdoc
                    • APMCPacketpdf
                      • AP MC Reviewpdf
                      • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                        • Questions on the whole passage
                        • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                          • Analysis of a paragraph
                          • Analysis of words or phrases
                            • Grammatical constructions
                            • Antecedents
                            • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                              • Vocabulary in context
                                  • MCVocabdoc
                                    • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                    • ToneStyle Words
                                    • Grammatical Construction
                                    • General Vocabulary
                                      • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                      • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                      • ScorCalculpdf
                                        • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                          • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                          • Rhetoricdoc
                                          • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                          • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                          • promptpdf
                                          • Annotating Textdoc
                                          • Syntaxdoc
                                            • SYNTAX
                                              • Improving writing
                                              • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                              • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                  • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                    • Diction and Tone
                                                      • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                      • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                      • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                      • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                      • Argumentationdoc
                                                      • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                      • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                      • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                        • APSynandGenpdf
                                                          • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                          • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                          • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                            • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                              • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                              • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                • 2005Bpdf
                                                                • 2006Bpdf

                      1

                      AP English Languageand Composition

                      Effective Essay Writing for Rhetorical Analysis and

                      Argumentation

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      2

                      The Prompt

                      bull The most wonderful essay ever written CANNOT score in the high range if its content is OFF PROMPT

                      bull Make sure you are reading the prompt correctly and addressing what it is asking of you

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                      3

                      Types of Prompts

                      bull Analysis (RhetoricalArgument)bull Argumentationbull Synthesis

                      ldquoStudents should read essay prompts as texts making certain they have understood what they are

                      being asked to dordquo ~ M Elkins

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                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      4

                      1 Read the Prompt

                      bull Read the promptbull Read the prompt againbull Underline key wordsphrasesbull Number those elements that must be

                      accomplished in the essaybull Do everything the prompt suggests

                      address every part of the prompt

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      5

                      Sample Prompts wNotation

                      bull See Handoutsbull Annotate the Prompt to discover and stay

                      focused on your TASK(S)bull Annotate the passage according to the

                      TASK(S)bull Determine the Authorrsquos IntentPurpose in

                      the passage

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                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      6

                      Analysis

                      bull Rhetorical ndash consider tone attitude point of view techniques diction imagery syntax language level

                      bull Argument ndash consider tone attitude strategies emphasis diction imagery syntax appeals

                      2

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      7

                      General Analysis Terms(Recent Exams)

                      bull ldquoCrafts the Textrdquobull Rhetorical Strategiesbull Most Compelling (ObservationArgument)bull Strategies Used (to Satirize)bull ldquoConveys the EffectFeelingetchelliprdquo

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      8

                      Specific Terms

                      bull Argumentsbull Assumptionsbull Sentence Structure Syntaxbull Tonebull Point of Viewbull Detail

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      9

                      Consider Your Task

                      bull Analyze techniquesbull ConveyDefine Attitudebull Achieve Purposebull Effect on AudienceReaderbull Reveal Differences in Purpose

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      10

                      Authorial Intent

                      bull Consider Purposebull Consider Audiencebull Consider Occasionbull What is the RHETORICAL purpose of the

                      passagebull What techniques of LANGUAGE does the

                      writer use to achieve that purpose

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      11

                      2 Read the Passagebull Annotate as you readbull Identify subject and examples usedbull Mark diction ndash connotation and ironybull Use ofChoices in Imagery ndash parallel

                      themes and symbolsbull Unusual Syntax andor Punctuationbull Connection andor Organization of ideas

                      paragraphs sentences

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      12

                      3 Organization

                      bull Think before you writebull DO NOT begin by restating ie parroting

                      the prompt word for wordbull Thesis need to be specific ndash how do the

                      purpose and language interactbull Characterize the elements under analysis

                      donrsquot just list them

                      3

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      13

                      Use DetailsExamples

                      bull Quote from the passage liberallybull Use examples of diction details

                      assumption figurative language etchellipbull Use short quotes ndash embed into your own

                      statementsbull Always explain the writerrsquos purpose in

                      including these devices

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      14

                      Write about what you know

                      bull You cannot possibly explore every rhetorical devicetechnique the author has used

                      bull Select those for which you can explain the function and purpose

                      bull Look for connections between the various devicesstrategies

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      15

                      Writing the Body pararsquos

                      bull Be thorough and specific ANALYZEbull Do not simply ldquopoint outrdquo strategiesbull Explain how they are usedbull Provide examples from the textbull Speculate as to why the author included

                      them what is their effectbull How do they support the purpose

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      16

                      Focus on Function

                      bull Donrsquot guess about the name of a devicebull If you arenrsquot sure if the name is

                      onomatopoeia or oxymoron or metonymy then donrsquot use the term

                      bull But do include the ldquobuzzrdquo and ldquoloud silencerdquo and ldquothe crownrdquo hellip

                      bull And then discuss HOW they contribute to the selection

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      17

                      A Good Length

                      bull No magic number of paragraphsbull Divide into paragraphs ndash donrsquot write one long

                      paragraph ndash find natural breaks and indentbull Find a pattern of organization order of

                      appearance words to phrases to paragraphshellipbull WATCH YOUR TIME ndash you want to include

                      language from the WHOLE passage

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      18

                      Style and Voice

                      bull Write to express not to impress ndash use natural language

                      bull Demonstrate that you understand style ndashshow how the author developed the selection to create a desired effect

                      bull Maintain an economy of language ndash say much with few words - CONCISION

                      4

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      19

                      Style and Voice (contrsquod)

                      bull Best to use third person (he she they) rather than first person

                      bull Try to use present tense when discussing literaturewritten text

                      bull Write legibly ndash the readers cannot reward you for what you do well if they cannot read it

                      bull Let your work stand on its own merits ndash no pity notes (ldquoI was up all nightrdquo etchellip

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      20

                      Verbs that contribute

                      bull Chroniclesbull Delineatesbull Demonstratesbull Depictsbull Exemplifiesbull Featuresbull Illuminates

                      bull Portraysbull Reflectsbull Specifiesbull Suggestsbull Illustratesbull DO NOT USE

                      ndash goes shows tells

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      21

                      Argumentation

                      bull Defend ndash Support ndash agree completelybull Challenge ndash Dispute ndash disagree

                      completelybull Qualify ndash means to agree or disagree

                      except in certain circumstancesbull Choose the approach for which you can

                      find the most evidence Take a stand Donrsquot straddle the fence

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      22

                      Step One

                      bull Determine the point of the author in the passage

                      bull Develop you own position on that point (Agree Disagree Qualify)

                      bull Choose the side for which you have the most detail for support

                      bull This provides the details for you introduction

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      23

                      Finding Evidence (details)

                      bull If appropriate find details from a variety of sources

                      bull Use historybull Use sciencebull Use literaturebull Use current eventsbull Use personal observation

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      24

                      Be Specific with Details

                      bull Reasons ndash use illustrationsbull Examples ndash include names titlesbull Incidents ndash include dates placesbull FactsStatistics ndash DO NOT make them upbull Personal Experience ndash donrsquot generalize

                      use names places

                      5

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      25

                      Use Quality Detail

                      bull Avoid inaccuracies ndash BE RIGHTbull Add as many specifics as possible ndash

                      specific names specific dates specific titles

                      bull Be coherent ndash include only RELEVANT detailshellipmore is NOT necessarily merrierhellipdonrsquot include details that donrsquot directly support your point

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      26

                      Organize the Argument

                      bull Write a strong thesis ndash state your position clearly

                      bull Formulate 3-4 paragraphsbull Admit the opposition ndash acknowledge the

                      opposing argumentbull Make your points relevant and accuratebull Add a conclusion

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      27

                      Argument Intro

                      bull Write a short intro in which youhellipbull Explain the position of the authorbull Present your position and any background

                      the reader needs to knowbull Include a strong thesis ndash one that clearly

                      presents the position (defend challenge qualify)

                      bull Do NOT repeat the promptBroward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      28

                      Concession

                      bull Think of the argument the opposing side might propose

                      bull Be willing to concede a pointbull Think of ways to acknowledge those

                      arguments and refute thembull Might place after your introduction donrsquot

                      spend more than two sentences

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      29

                      The Body

                      bull Start with the weakest and end with the strongest

                      bull Divide your assertions into paragraphs with the appropriate support in each

                      bull Apply effective transitions to match the organization of the content

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      30

                      Conclusion

                      bull Write a brief conclusion in which you return - with force - to your position

                      bull Try to come full-circle ndash return to idea you usedmentioned in your introduction

                      bull Consider analogies to your point in the introduction to avoid merely repeating the introduction

                      6

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      31

                      Voice and Style - redux

                      bull Generally use a less formal style than with analysis essays

                      bull Use first person if it seems naturalbull AVOID second person - ldquoyourdquobull Write naturally past tense is okaybull Use exact diction (avoid non-specific

                      language ldquoonerdquo ldquothingrdquo etchellip)

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      32

                      Answer the Question

                      bull Look for key wordsbull Choose only one approachbull Use a variety of evidencebull Be specific

                      The study of rhetoric stretches back to classical Greece Today the term is most commonly taken pejoratively meaning bombastic or exaggerated language But rhetoric also has a neutral meaningmdashrhetoric as the art or science of persuasion by means of stylistic and structural techniques The study of rhetoric is useful because it encourages us to think of writing (and speaking for that matter) as a series of strategic choices Every attempt to put words together includes choices about which words to use and how to arrange them In this sense all writers like it or not use rhetoric

                      Even simplicity is a rhetorical and political choice George Orwell for instance was a master of the plain style and used it to devastating effect in his political journalism and novels like 1984 and

                      Animal Farm (for more on the rhetoric of simplicity see Hugh Kenner ldquoThe Politics of the Plain Stylerdquo in Literary Journalism in the Twentieth Century ed Norman Sims [New York Oxford University Press 1990])

                      Rhetoric is also useful because it encourages thinking about ones audience Different audiences require different rhetorical choices In the following section Ill list some of the most pertinent rhetorical techniques or tropes when writing for academic audiences

                      Diction

                      Perhaps the first rhetorical choice a writer makesmdashand all writers make this choice whether they realize it or notmdashis diction or what words to use Different words even if they ostensibly mean the same thing have different connotations as the poet W H Auden well understood And different audiences have different expectations about appropriate diction Academic writing requires a more formal diction than everyday talk or journalism and within academe writing in the natural sciences requires a more formal diction than writing in the humanities Im no great fan of formality in writing but on the other hand one does need to know and respect the conventions of academe and other professional forums for serious writing

                      ORIGINAL REVISION

                      The layers of dirt were not messed up at all The sedimentary levels were undisturbed

                      In general the more specialized training a profession requires the more it develops its own jargon as a way of differentiating those who have acquired the proper training from those who have not Twist a policemans arm for instance and you still probably couldnt get him to say car or robber or gun or hit or saw long professional training has habituated him to vehicle alleged perpetrator firearm strike and observed This kind of Official Style diction is all around us Students tend to learn it as the epitome of adult discourse and to go too far in incorporating it into their own writing

                      My general advice regarding diction is to prefer plain to fancy unless the scholarly field expects a particular word Since appropriate choices vary within specific disciplines and sometimes between individual scholars my suggestion to students is to locate model

                      authors within their chosen fields and study those authors diction and other rhetorical strategies Your professors can help you find good models ask them to recommend respected scholars who write well There are always at least a few in every field

                      Parallelism

                      Parallelism is one of the most useful and flexible rhetorical techniques It refers to any structure which brings together parallel elements be these nouns adjectives verbs adverbs or larger structures Done well parallelism imparts grace and power to passage

                      The princes strength is also his weakness his self-reliance is also isolation

                      In Machiavellis world Sheldon Wolin observes moral ends have been replaced by ironies answers have been replaced by questions

                      The characters are all watching one another forming theories about one another listening contriving

                      One side sees Lincoln as a bold and shrewd leader sincerely committed to abolishing slavery the other sees him as an opportunistic politician concerned only to defend the union in any way possible

                      Problems with faulty parallelism are very common because many people know (or think they know) what they want to say and dont scrutinize what they actually write In the following examples the parallel elements in the revisions are emphasized

                      ORIGINAL REVISION

                      Someone acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                      Acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                      Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and the need to get rid of sentimental attachments

                      Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and ridding oneself of sentimental attachments

                      Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and he tries to avoid marriage

                      Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and tries to avoid marriage

                      One frequent source of trouble is nested listsmdashwhen one sublist occurs within another list The writer of this sentence lost track and thought the final comma signaled the last item in the main list

                      Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American

                      Association of Colleges and Universities

                      The trick is to recognize that this is actually a nested list and maintain parallelism within each list

                      Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers and in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                      The list is technically okay but its complexity makes it a bit hard to read One could rearrange the list to emphasize different elements and allow some pauses

                      Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and in targeted outlets like the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                      Note that among other changes the revision adds the word targeted which makes it easier to get the lists logic As ever revision is equal parts rewriting and rethinking

                      One other problem with parallelism is fairly common though this is a stylistic rather than a grammatical lapse Writers often repeat too much in the parallel elements detracting from parallelisms economical elegance

                      ORIGINAL REVISION

                      Socrates led a private life as opposed to a public life

                      Socrates led a private rather than a public life

                      Parallelism can be employed in many different ways One spin is inversion or chiasmus in which parallel elements are carefully reversed for emphasis A famous example comes from President John F Kennedys inaugural address (1961)

                      Ask not what your country can do for youmdashask what you can do for your country

                      Inversion often gains power by focusing attention on the ends of sentences where readers and listeners naturally pause Kennedys example shows this as does the next example from a 19th-century religious leader defending his honesty despite his change of religion

                      I have changed in many things in this I have not

                      By putting the prepositional phrase in this at the beginning of the second clause the speaker is able to end on that emphatic final not

                      Repetition

                      Repetition is one of the most useful tools available to writers Repetition allows a writer or speaker to hammer home an idea image or relationship to force the reader or listener to pay attention Two classic examples of the incredible power of repetition are Mark Antonys They are all honorable men speech in Shakespeares Julius Caesar (32) and Martin Luther King Jrs I have a dream speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963

                      But many writers especially young writers fear repetition apparently believing that repeating a word within a single sentence or short passage is bad style H W Fowler author of the old but still recommended Fowlers Modern English Usage (1st ed 1926) called this tendency elegant variation and observed There are few literary faults so widely prevalent

                      Heres an example of a student working hard to avoid repeating words within a sentence It doesnt work well the revision repeats words and reads more easily

                      ORIGINAL REVISION

                      The test group got an average of seven test questions correct the mean for the control category was thirteen valid responses

                      The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group averaged thirteen

                      The originals nervous avoidance of repetition (for instance using first group and then category) makes it a bit hard to follow The revision by contrast is easier to follow because it repeats words and syntactical structures Note that repetition allows the writer to cut some repeated elements and focus attention on the key information the contrast

                      Practiced writers will also employ all sorts of variations on this pattern of repetition

                      The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group thirteen

                      The test group averaged seven correct answers to the control groups thirteen

                      Another example of a writer afraid of repetition

                      ORIGINAL REVISION

                      First the North Koreans made an incursion almost all the way down the peninsula then Americans and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                      First the North Koreans drove almost all the way down the peninsula then American and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                      In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

                      Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

                      We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

                      Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

                      Using tenses consistently

                      Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

                      ORIGINAL REVISION

                      Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                      Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                      The historical present

                      One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

                      ORIGINAL REVISION

                      Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

                      Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

                      Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

                      But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

                      ORIGINAL REVISION

                      Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

                      This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

                      ORIGINAL REVISION

                      A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                      A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                      But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

                      Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

                      Alliteration

                      Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

                      Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

                      As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

                      The rule of three

                      This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

                      Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

                      doesnt try to soften his image

                      A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

                      The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

                      Humor

                      Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

                      First and second person

                      Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

                      You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

                      Questions and exclamations

                      Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

                      Placing emphasis

                      If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

                      These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

                      ORIGINAL REVISION

                      True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

                      True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

                      The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

                      There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

                      Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

                      Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

                      relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

                      from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

                      consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

                      Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

                      Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

                      Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

                      1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

                      Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

                      bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

                      statements and actions essential to understanding a character

                      bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

                      bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

                      bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

                      choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

                      bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

                      yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

                      intuits is of significance to understanding the text

                      (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

                      SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                      1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                      2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                      Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                      The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                      A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                      Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                      Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                      OR ndash

                      The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                      Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                      Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                      bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                      bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                      is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                      participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                      bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                      o Me Up At Does

                      Me up at does

                      out of the floor

                      quietly Stare

                      a poisoned mouse

                      still who alive

                      is asking What

                      have I done that

                      You wouldnt have

                      In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                      The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                      Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                      A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                      B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                      1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                      D Variety of sentence patterns

                      1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                      E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                      1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                      Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                      Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                      denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                      connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                      Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                      The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                      overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                      Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                      1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                      2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                      3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                      4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                      Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                      Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                      These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                      Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                      No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                      Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                      We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                      SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                      In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                      Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                      Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                      (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                      In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                      Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                      not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                      rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                      SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                      Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                      VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                      WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                      differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                      alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                      TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                      details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                      setting plot details point of view diction

                      READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                      impact shock anger awareness connections

                      contrasts mood images imagery tones

                      Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                      Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                      but rather hywoamninnad

                      ffiimonm

                      snaafislaapffabuaain

                      nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                      kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                      condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                      Contrast and Comparision

                      or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                      Emphasis and Repetition

                      or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                      ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                      Time

                      oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                      rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                      in futur subsequently

                      Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                      ound e de whenever op

                      eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                      n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                      at the right before between

                      in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                      R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                      in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                      TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                      Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                      words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                      ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                      1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                      Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                      2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                      Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                      Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                      additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                      Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                      Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                      Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                      Words that Identify

                      that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                      that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                      but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                      Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                      Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                      Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                      Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                      CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                      seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                      Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                      EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                      Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                      Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                      SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                      in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                      previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                      finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                      to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                      Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                      Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                      EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                      Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                      Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                      core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                      Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                      Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                      As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                      Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                      other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                      Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                      Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                      Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                      In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                      Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                      (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                      AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                      from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                      drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                      principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                      the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                      15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                      known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                      of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                      choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                      itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                      APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                      bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                      guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                      authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                      sense of urgency specific examples

                      LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                      bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                      bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                      ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                      ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                      Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                      State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                      THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                      Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                      1

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      1

                      AP English Languageand Composition

                      Synthesis Question

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      2

                      Format

                      bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                      and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                      position on topic addressed in sources

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      3

                      Sources

                      bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                      other visual

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                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      4

                      Types of Sources

                      bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      5

                      Synthesize the Argument

                      bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                      bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                      bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                      bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      6

                      Distinctions

                      bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                      Source B etchellip)

                      2

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      7

                      Savvy Writers

                      bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                      their argument

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      8

                      Six-Part Approach

                      bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      9

                      Readhellip and Analyze

                      bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                      makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                      assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      10

                      Generalize

                      bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                      bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                      bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                      bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      11

                      Converse

                      bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                      bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                      bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      12

                      Finesse

                      bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                      bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                      bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                      3

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      13

                      Argue

                      bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                      takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                      14

                      Conclusion

                      bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                      position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                      THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                      WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                      1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                      You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                      3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                      EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                      How to improve your essay writing grade

                      1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                      exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                      Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                      The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                      EXAMPLE

                      Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                      If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                      1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                      concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                      Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                      Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                      Weaving To break away from the formula

                      1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                      2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                      3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                      4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                      EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                      1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                      2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                      earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                      3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                      4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                      5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                      ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                      6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                      7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                      8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                      his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                      work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                      your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                      develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                      bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                      1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                      Top Ten Mistakes

                      Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                      An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                      Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                      And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                      10 Apostrophes

                      Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                      WRONG RIGHT

                      Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                      Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                      Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                      Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                      Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                      WRONG RIGHT

                      The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                      The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                      For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                      Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                      There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                      Moses leadership

                      Socrates wisdom

                      Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                      Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                      8 Conjunction confusion

                      Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                      WRONG RIGHT

                      Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                      Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                      Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                      Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                      Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                      Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                      WRONG RIGHT

                      Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                      Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                      6 Cannot

                      One word not two (not can not)

                      5 Affect and effect

                      Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                      She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                      For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                      She affected the IRSs procedures

                      WRONG RIGHT

                      A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                      A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                      4 Intents and purposes

                      Not intensive purposes

                      WRONG RIGHT

                      For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                      For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                      3 Plural or singular

                      It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                      WRONG RIGHT

                      The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                      The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                      Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                      2 Principalprinciple

                      Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                      WRONG RIGHT

                      Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                      Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                      Heres how to remember the difference

                      principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                      principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                      1 Itsits

                      Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                      WRONG RIGHT

                      The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                      The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                      Whos and whose have the same distinction

                      WRONG RIGHT

                      Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                      Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                      (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                      When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                      Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                      Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                      These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                      1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                      2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                      3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                      4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                      5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                      5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                      7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                      8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                      9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                      10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                      Why it matters

                      In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                      What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                      Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                      hink

                      • AP Review coverdoc
                      • APMCPacketpdf
                        • AP MC Reviewpdf
                        • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                          • Questions on the whole passage
                          • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                            • Analysis of a paragraph
                            • Analysis of words or phrases
                              • Grammatical constructions
                              • Antecedents
                              • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                • Vocabulary in context
                                    • MCVocabdoc
                                      • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                      • ToneStyle Words
                                      • Grammatical Construction
                                      • General Vocabulary
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                                            • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                            • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                            • promptpdf
                                            • Annotating Textdoc
                                            • Syntaxdoc
                                              • SYNTAX
                                                • Improving writing
                                                • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                    • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                      • Diction and Tone
                                                        • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                        • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                        • TRANSITIONSdoc
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                                                                • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                  • 2005Bpdf
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                        2

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        7

                        General Analysis Terms(Recent Exams)

                        bull ldquoCrafts the Textrdquobull Rhetorical Strategiesbull Most Compelling (ObservationArgument)bull Strategies Used (to Satirize)bull ldquoConveys the EffectFeelingetchelliprdquo

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        8

                        Specific Terms

                        bull Argumentsbull Assumptionsbull Sentence Structure Syntaxbull Tonebull Point of Viewbull Detail

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        9

                        Consider Your Task

                        bull Analyze techniquesbull ConveyDefine Attitudebull Achieve Purposebull Effect on AudienceReaderbull Reveal Differences in Purpose

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        10

                        Authorial Intent

                        bull Consider Purposebull Consider Audiencebull Consider Occasionbull What is the RHETORICAL purpose of the

                        passagebull What techniques of LANGUAGE does the

                        writer use to achieve that purpose

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        11

                        2 Read the Passagebull Annotate as you readbull Identify subject and examples usedbull Mark diction ndash connotation and ironybull Use ofChoices in Imagery ndash parallel

                        themes and symbolsbull Unusual Syntax andor Punctuationbull Connection andor Organization of ideas

                        paragraphs sentences

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        12

                        3 Organization

                        bull Think before you writebull DO NOT begin by restating ie parroting

                        the prompt word for wordbull Thesis need to be specific ndash how do the

                        purpose and language interactbull Characterize the elements under analysis

                        donrsquot just list them

                        3

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        13

                        Use DetailsExamples

                        bull Quote from the passage liberallybull Use examples of diction details

                        assumption figurative language etchellipbull Use short quotes ndash embed into your own

                        statementsbull Always explain the writerrsquos purpose in

                        including these devices

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        14

                        Write about what you know

                        bull You cannot possibly explore every rhetorical devicetechnique the author has used

                        bull Select those for which you can explain the function and purpose

                        bull Look for connections between the various devicesstrategies

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        15

                        Writing the Body pararsquos

                        bull Be thorough and specific ANALYZEbull Do not simply ldquopoint outrdquo strategiesbull Explain how they are usedbull Provide examples from the textbull Speculate as to why the author included

                        them what is their effectbull How do they support the purpose

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        16

                        Focus on Function

                        bull Donrsquot guess about the name of a devicebull If you arenrsquot sure if the name is

                        onomatopoeia or oxymoron or metonymy then donrsquot use the term

                        bull But do include the ldquobuzzrdquo and ldquoloud silencerdquo and ldquothe crownrdquo hellip

                        bull And then discuss HOW they contribute to the selection

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        17

                        A Good Length

                        bull No magic number of paragraphsbull Divide into paragraphs ndash donrsquot write one long

                        paragraph ndash find natural breaks and indentbull Find a pattern of organization order of

                        appearance words to phrases to paragraphshellipbull WATCH YOUR TIME ndash you want to include

                        language from the WHOLE passage

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        18

                        Style and Voice

                        bull Write to express not to impress ndash use natural language

                        bull Demonstrate that you understand style ndashshow how the author developed the selection to create a desired effect

                        bull Maintain an economy of language ndash say much with few words - CONCISION

                        4

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        19

                        Style and Voice (contrsquod)

                        bull Best to use third person (he she they) rather than first person

                        bull Try to use present tense when discussing literaturewritten text

                        bull Write legibly ndash the readers cannot reward you for what you do well if they cannot read it

                        bull Let your work stand on its own merits ndash no pity notes (ldquoI was up all nightrdquo etchellip

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        20

                        Verbs that contribute

                        bull Chroniclesbull Delineatesbull Demonstratesbull Depictsbull Exemplifiesbull Featuresbull Illuminates

                        bull Portraysbull Reflectsbull Specifiesbull Suggestsbull Illustratesbull DO NOT USE

                        ndash goes shows tells

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        21

                        Argumentation

                        bull Defend ndash Support ndash agree completelybull Challenge ndash Dispute ndash disagree

                        completelybull Qualify ndash means to agree or disagree

                        except in certain circumstancesbull Choose the approach for which you can

                        find the most evidence Take a stand Donrsquot straddle the fence

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        22

                        Step One

                        bull Determine the point of the author in the passage

                        bull Develop you own position on that point (Agree Disagree Qualify)

                        bull Choose the side for which you have the most detail for support

                        bull This provides the details for you introduction

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        23

                        Finding Evidence (details)

                        bull If appropriate find details from a variety of sources

                        bull Use historybull Use sciencebull Use literaturebull Use current eventsbull Use personal observation

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        24

                        Be Specific with Details

                        bull Reasons ndash use illustrationsbull Examples ndash include names titlesbull Incidents ndash include dates placesbull FactsStatistics ndash DO NOT make them upbull Personal Experience ndash donrsquot generalize

                        use names places

                        5

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        25

                        Use Quality Detail

                        bull Avoid inaccuracies ndash BE RIGHTbull Add as many specifics as possible ndash

                        specific names specific dates specific titles

                        bull Be coherent ndash include only RELEVANT detailshellipmore is NOT necessarily merrierhellipdonrsquot include details that donrsquot directly support your point

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        26

                        Organize the Argument

                        bull Write a strong thesis ndash state your position clearly

                        bull Formulate 3-4 paragraphsbull Admit the opposition ndash acknowledge the

                        opposing argumentbull Make your points relevant and accuratebull Add a conclusion

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        27

                        Argument Intro

                        bull Write a short intro in which youhellipbull Explain the position of the authorbull Present your position and any background

                        the reader needs to knowbull Include a strong thesis ndash one that clearly

                        presents the position (defend challenge qualify)

                        bull Do NOT repeat the promptBroward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        28

                        Concession

                        bull Think of the argument the opposing side might propose

                        bull Be willing to concede a pointbull Think of ways to acknowledge those

                        arguments and refute thembull Might place after your introduction donrsquot

                        spend more than two sentences

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        29

                        The Body

                        bull Start with the weakest and end with the strongest

                        bull Divide your assertions into paragraphs with the appropriate support in each

                        bull Apply effective transitions to match the organization of the content

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        30

                        Conclusion

                        bull Write a brief conclusion in which you return - with force - to your position

                        bull Try to come full-circle ndash return to idea you usedmentioned in your introduction

                        bull Consider analogies to your point in the introduction to avoid merely repeating the introduction

                        6

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        31

                        Voice and Style - redux

                        bull Generally use a less formal style than with analysis essays

                        bull Use first person if it seems naturalbull AVOID second person - ldquoyourdquobull Write naturally past tense is okaybull Use exact diction (avoid non-specific

                        language ldquoonerdquo ldquothingrdquo etchellip)

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        32

                        Answer the Question

                        bull Look for key wordsbull Choose only one approachbull Use a variety of evidencebull Be specific

                        The study of rhetoric stretches back to classical Greece Today the term is most commonly taken pejoratively meaning bombastic or exaggerated language But rhetoric also has a neutral meaningmdashrhetoric as the art or science of persuasion by means of stylistic and structural techniques The study of rhetoric is useful because it encourages us to think of writing (and speaking for that matter) as a series of strategic choices Every attempt to put words together includes choices about which words to use and how to arrange them In this sense all writers like it or not use rhetoric

                        Even simplicity is a rhetorical and political choice George Orwell for instance was a master of the plain style and used it to devastating effect in his political journalism and novels like 1984 and

                        Animal Farm (for more on the rhetoric of simplicity see Hugh Kenner ldquoThe Politics of the Plain Stylerdquo in Literary Journalism in the Twentieth Century ed Norman Sims [New York Oxford University Press 1990])

                        Rhetoric is also useful because it encourages thinking about ones audience Different audiences require different rhetorical choices In the following section Ill list some of the most pertinent rhetorical techniques or tropes when writing for academic audiences

                        Diction

                        Perhaps the first rhetorical choice a writer makesmdashand all writers make this choice whether they realize it or notmdashis diction or what words to use Different words even if they ostensibly mean the same thing have different connotations as the poet W H Auden well understood And different audiences have different expectations about appropriate diction Academic writing requires a more formal diction than everyday talk or journalism and within academe writing in the natural sciences requires a more formal diction than writing in the humanities Im no great fan of formality in writing but on the other hand one does need to know and respect the conventions of academe and other professional forums for serious writing

                        ORIGINAL REVISION

                        The layers of dirt were not messed up at all The sedimentary levels were undisturbed

                        In general the more specialized training a profession requires the more it develops its own jargon as a way of differentiating those who have acquired the proper training from those who have not Twist a policemans arm for instance and you still probably couldnt get him to say car or robber or gun or hit or saw long professional training has habituated him to vehicle alleged perpetrator firearm strike and observed This kind of Official Style diction is all around us Students tend to learn it as the epitome of adult discourse and to go too far in incorporating it into their own writing

                        My general advice regarding diction is to prefer plain to fancy unless the scholarly field expects a particular word Since appropriate choices vary within specific disciplines and sometimes between individual scholars my suggestion to students is to locate model

                        authors within their chosen fields and study those authors diction and other rhetorical strategies Your professors can help you find good models ask them to recommend respected scholars who write well There are always at least a few in every field

                        Parallelism

                        Parallelism is one of the most useful and flexible rhetorical techniques It refers to any structure which brings together parallel elements be these nouns adjectives verbs adverbs or larger structures Done well parallelism imparts grace and power to passage

                        The princes strength is also his weakness his self-reliance is also isolation

                        In Machiavellis world Sheldon Wolin observes moral ends have been replaced by ironies answers have been replaced by questions

                        The characters are all watching one another forming theories about one another listening contriving

                        One side sees Lincoln as a bold and shrewd leader sincerely committed to abolishing slavery the other sees him as an opportunistic politician concerned only to defend the union in any way possible

                        Problems with faulty parallelism are very common because many people know (or think they know) what they want to say and dont scrutinize what they actually write In the following examples the parallel elements in the revisions are emphasized

                        ORIGINAL REVISION

                        Someone acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                        Acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                        Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and the need to get rid of sentimental attachments

                        Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and ridding oneself of sentimental attachments

                        Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and he tries to avoid marriage

                        Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and tries to avoid marriage

                        One frequent source of trouble is nested listsmdashwhen one sublist occurs within another list The writer of this sentence lost track and thought the final comma signaled the last item in the main list

                        Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American

                        Association of Colleges and Universities

                        The trick is to recognize that this is actually a nested list and maintain parallelism within each list

                        Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers and in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                        The list is technically okay but its complexity makes it a bit hard to read One could rearrange the list to emphasize different elements and allow some pauses

                        Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and in targeted outlets like the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                        Note that among other changes the revision adds the word targeted which makes it easier to get the lists logic As ever revision is equal parts rewriting and rethinking

                        One other problem with parallelism is fairly common though this is a stylistic rather than a grammatical lapse Writers often repeat too much in the parallel elements detracting from parallelisms economical elegance

                        ORIGINAL REVISION

                        Socrates led a private life as opposed to a public life

                        Socrates led a private rather than a public life

                        Parallelism can be employed in many different ways One spin is inversion or chiasmus in which parallel elements are carefully reversed for emphasis A famous example comes from President John F Kennedys inaugural address (1961)

                        Ask not what your country can do for youmdashask what you can do for your country

                        Inversion often gains power by focusing attention on the ends of sentences where readers and listeners naturally pause Kennedys example shows this as does the next example from a 19th-century religious leader defending his honesty despite his change of religion

                        I have changed in many things in this I have not

                        By putting the prepositional phrase in this at the beginning of the second clause the speaker is able to end on that emphatic final not

                        Repetition

                        Repetition is one of the most useful tools available to writers Repetition allows a writer or speaker to hammer home an idea image or relationship to force the reader or listener to pay attention Two classic examples of the incredible power of repetition are Mark Antonys They are all honorable men speech in Shakespeares Julius Caesar (32) and Martin Luther King Jrs I have a dream speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963

                        But many writers especially young writers fear repetition apparently believing that repeating a word within a single sentence or short passage is bad style H W Fowler author of the old but still recommended Fowlers Modern English Usage (1st ed 1926) called this tendency elegant variation and observed There are few literary faults so widely prevalent

                        Heres an example of a student working hard to avoid repeating words within a sentence It doesnt work well the revision repeats words and reads more easily

                        ORIGINAL REVISION

                        The test group got an average of seven test questions correct the mean for the control category was thirteen valid responses

                        The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group averaged thirteen

                        The originals nervous avoidance of repetition (for instance using first group and then category) makes it a bit hard to follow The revision by contrast is easier to follow because it repeats words and syntactical structures Note that repetition allows the writer to cut some repeated elements and focus attention on the key information the contrast

                        Practiced writers will also employ all sorts of variations on this pattern of repetition

                        The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group thirteen

                        The test group averaged seven correct answers to the control groups thirteen

                        Another example of a writer afraid of repetition

                        ORIGINAL REVISION

                        First the North Koreans made an incursion almost all the way down the peninsula then Americans and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                        First the North Koreans drove almost all the way down the peninsula then American and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                        In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

                        Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

                        We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

                        Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

                        Using tenses consistently

                        Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

                        ORIGINAL REVISION

                        Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                        Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                        The historical present

                        One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

                        ORIGINAL REVISION

                        Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

                        Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

                        Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

                        But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

                        ORIGINAL REVISION

                        Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

                        This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

                        ORIGINAL REVISION

                        A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                        A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                        But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

                        Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

                        Alliteration

                        Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

                        Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

                        As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

                        The rule of three

                        This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

                        Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

                        doesnt try to soften his image

                        A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

                        The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

                        Humor

                        Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

                        First and second person

                        Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

                        You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

                        Questions and exclamations

                        Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

                        Placing emphasis

                        If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

                        These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

                        ORIGINAL REVISION

                        True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

                        True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

                        The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

                        There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

                        Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

                        Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

                        relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

                        from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

                        consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

                        Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

                        Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

                        Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

                        1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

                        Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

                        bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

                        statements and actions essential to understanding a character

                        bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

                        bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

                        bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

                        choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

                        bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

                        yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

                        intuits is of significance to understanding the text

                        (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

                        SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                        1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                        2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                        Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                        The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                        A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                        Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                        Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                        OR ndash

                        The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                        Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                        Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                        bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                        bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                        is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                        participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                        bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                        o Me Up At Does

                        Me up at does

                        out of the floor

                        quietly Stare

                        a poisoned mouse

                        still who alive

                        is asking What

                        have I done that

                        You wouldnt have

                        In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                        The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                        Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                        A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                        B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                        1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                        D Variety of sentence patterns

                        1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                        E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                        1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                        Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                        Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                        denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                        connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                        Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                        The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                        overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                        Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                        1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                        2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                        3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                        4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                        Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                        Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                        These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                        Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                        No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                        Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                        We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                        SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                        In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                        Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                        Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                        (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                        In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                        Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                        not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                        rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                        SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                        Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                        VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                        WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                        differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                        alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                        TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                        details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                        setting plot details point of view diction

                        READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                        impact shock anger awareness connections

                        contrasts mood images imagery tones

                        Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                        Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                        but rather hywoamninnad

                        ffiimonm

                        snaafislaapffabuaain

                        nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                        kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                        condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                        Contrast and Comparision

                        or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                        Emphasis and Repetition

                        or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                        ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                        Time

                        oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                        rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                        in futur subsequently

                        Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                        ound e de whenever op

                        eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                        n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                        at the right before between

                        in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                        R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                        in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                        TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                        Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                        words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                        ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                        1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                        Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                        2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                        Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                        Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                        additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                        Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                        Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                        Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                        Words that Identify

                        that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                        that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                        but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                        Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                        Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                        Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                        Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                        CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                        seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                        Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                        EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                        Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                        Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                        SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                        in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                        previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                        finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                        to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                        Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                        Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                        EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                        Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                        Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                        core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                        Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                        Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                        As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                        Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                        other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                        Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                        Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                        Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                        In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                        Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                        (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                        AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                        from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                        drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                        principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                        the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                        15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                        known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                        of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                        choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                        itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                        APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                        bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                        guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                        authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                        sense of urgency specific examples

                        LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                        bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                        bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                        ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                        ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                        Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                        State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                        THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                        Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                        1

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        1

                        AP English Languageand Composition

                        Synthesis Question

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        2

                        Format

                        bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                        and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                        position on topic addressed in sources

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        3

                        Sources

                        bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                        other visual

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        4

                        Types of Sources

                        bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        5

                        Synthesize the Argument

                        bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                        bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                        bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                        bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        6

                        Distinctions

                        bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                        Source B etchellip)

                        2

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        7

                        Savvy Writers

                        bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                        their argument

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        8

                        Six-Part Approach

                        bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        9

                        Readhellip and Analyze

                        bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                        makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                        assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        10

                        Generalize

                        bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                        bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                        bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                        bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        11

                        Converse

                        bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                        bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                        bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        12

                        Finesse

                        bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                        bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                        bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                        3

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        13

                        Argue

                        bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                        takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                        14

                        Conclusion

                        bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                        position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                        THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                        WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                        1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                        You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                        3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                        EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                        How to improve your essay writing grade

                        1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                        exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                        Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                        The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                        EXAMPLE

                        Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                        If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                        1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                        concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                        Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                        Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                        Weaving To break away from the formula

                        1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                        2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                        3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                        4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                        EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                        1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                        2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                        earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                        3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                        4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                        5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                        ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                        6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                        7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                        8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                        his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                        work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                        your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                        develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                        bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                        1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                        Top Ten Mistakes

                        Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                        An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                        Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                        And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                        10 Apostrophes

                        Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                        WRONG RIGHT

                        Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                        Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                        Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                        Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                        Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                        WRONG RIGHT

                        The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                        The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                        For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                        Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                        There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                        Moses leadership

                        Socrates wisdom

                        Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                        Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                        8 Conjunction confusion

                        Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                        WRONG RIGHT

                        Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                        Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                        Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                        Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                        Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                        Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                        WRONG RIGHT

                        Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                        Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                        6 Cannot

                        One word not two (not can not)

                        5 Affect and effect

                        Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                        She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                        For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                        She affected the IRSs procedures

                        WRONG RIGHT

                        A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                        A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                        4 Intents and purposes

                        Not intensive purposes

                        WRONG RIGHT

                        For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                        For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                        3 Plural or singular

                        It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                        WRONG RIGHT

                        The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                        The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                        Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                        2 Principalprinciple

                        Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                        WRONG RIGHT

                        Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                        Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                        Heres how to remember the difference

                        principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                        principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                        1 Itsits

                        Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                        WRONG RIGHT

                        The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                        The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                        Whos and whose have the same distinction

                        WRONG RIGHT

                        Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                        Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                        (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                        When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                        Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                        Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                        These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                        1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                        2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                        3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                        4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                        5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                        5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                        7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                        8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                        9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                        10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                        Why it matters

                        In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                        What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                        Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                        hink

                        • AP Review coverdoc
                        • APMCPacketpdf
                          • AP MC Reviewpdf
                          • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                            • Questions on the whole passage
                            • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                              • Analysis of a paragraph
                              • Analysis of words or phrases
                                • Grammatical constructions
                                • Antecedents
                                • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                  • Vocabulary in context
                                      • MCVocabdoc
                                        • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                        • ToneStyle Words
                                        • Grammatical Construction
                                        • General Vocabulary
                                          • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                          • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                          • ScorCalculpdf
                                            • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                              • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                              • Rhetoricdoc
                                              • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                              • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                              • promptpdf
                                              • Annotating Textdoc
                                              • Syntaxdoc
                                                • SYNTAX
                                                  • Improving writing
                                                  • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                  • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                      • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                        • Diction and Tone
                                                          • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                          • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                          • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                          • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                          • Argumentationdoc
                                                          • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                          • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                          • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                            • APSynandGenpdf
                                                              • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                              • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                              • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                  • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                  • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                    • 2005Bpdf
                                                                    • 2006Bpdf

                          3

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          13

                          Use DetailsExamples

                          bull Quote from the passage liberallybull Use examples of diction details

                          assumption figurative language etchellipbull Use short quotes ndash embed into your own

                          statementsbull Always explain the writerrsquos purpose in

                          including these devices

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          14

                          Write about what you know

                          bull You cannot possibly explore every rhetorical devicetechnique the author has used

                          bull Select those for which you can explain the function and purpose

                          bull Look for connections between the various devicesstrategies

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          15

                          Writing the Body pararsquos

                          bull Be thorough and specific ANALYZEbull Do not simply ldquopoint outrdquo strategiesbull Explain how they are usedbull Provide examples from the textbull Speculate as to why the author included

                          them what is their effectbull How do they support the purpose

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          16

                          Focus on Function

                          bull Donrsquot guess about the name of a devicebull If you arenrsquot sure if the name is

                          onomatopoeia or oxymoron or metonymy then donrsquot use the term

                          bull But do include the ldquobuzzrdquo and ldquoloud silencerdquo and ldquothe crownrdquo hellip

                          bull And then discuss HOW they contribute to the selection

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          17

                          A Good Length

                          bull No magic number of paragraphsbull Divide into paragraphs ndash donrsquot write one long

                          paragraph ndash find natural breaks and indentbull Find a pattern of organization order of

                          appearance words to phrases to paragraphshellipbull WATCH YOUR TIME ndash you want to include

                          language from the WHOLE passage

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          18

                          Style and Voice

                          bull Write to express not to impress ndash use natural language

                          bull Demonstrate that you understand style ndashshow how the author developed the selection to create a desired effect

                          bull Maintain an economy of language ndash say much with few words - CONCISION

                          4

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          19

                          Style and Voice (contrsquod)

                          bull Best to use third person (he she they) rather than first person

                          bull Try to use present tense when discussing literaturewritten text

                          bull Write legibly ndash the readers cannot reward you for what you do well if they cannot read it

                          bull Let your work stand on its own merits ndash no pity notes (ldquoI was up all nightrdquo etchellip

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          20

                          Verbs that contribute

                          bull Chroniclesbull Delineatesbull Demonstratesbull Depictsbull Exemplifiesbull Featuresbull Illuminates

                          bull Portraysbull Reflectsbull Specifiesbull Suggestsbull Illustratesbull DO NOT USE

                          ndash goes shows tells

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          21

                          Argumentation

                          bull Defend ndash Support ndash agree completelybull Challenge ndash Dispute ndash disagree

                          completelybull Qualify ndash means to agree or disagree

                          except in certain circumstancesbull Choose the approach for which you can

                          find the most evidence Take a stand Donrsquot straddle the fence

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          22

                          Step One

                          bull Determine the point of the author in the passage

                          bull Develop you own position on that point (Agree Disagree Qualify)

                          bull Choose the side for which you have the most detail for support

                          bull This provides the details for you introduction

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          23

                          Finding Evidence (details)

                          bull If appropriate find details from a variety of sources

                          bull Use historybull Use sciencebull Use literaturebull Use current eventsbull Use personal observation

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          24

                          Be Specific with Details

                          bull Reasons ndash use illustrationsbull Examples ndash include names titlesbull Incidents ndash include dates placesbull FactsStatistics ndash DO NOT make them upbull Personal Experience ndash donrsquot generalize

                          use names places

                          5

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          25

                          Use Quality Detail

                          bull Avoid inaccuracies ndash BE RIGHTbull Add as many specifics as possible ndash

                          specific names specific dates specific titles

                          bull Be coherent ndash include only RELEVANT detailshellipmore is NOT necessarily merrierhellipdonrsquot include details that donrsquot directly support your point

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          26

                          Organize the Argument

                          bull Write a strong thesis ndash state your position clearly

                          bull Formulate 3-4 paragraphsbull Admit the opposition ndash acknowledge the

                          opposing argumentbull Make your points relevant and accuratebull Add a conclusion

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          27

                          Argument Intro

                          bull Write a short intro in which youhellipbull Explain the position of the authorbull Present your position and any background

                          the reader needs to knowbull Include a strong thesis ndash one that clearly

                          presents the position (defend challenge qualify)

                          bull Do NOT repeat the promptBroward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          28

                          Concession

                          bull Think of the argument the opposing side might propose

                          bull Be willing to concede a pointbull Think of ways to acknowledge those

                          arguments and refute thembull Might place after your introduction donrsquot

                          spend more than two sentences

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          29

                          The Body

                          bull Start with the weakest and end with the strongest

                          bull Divide your assertions into paragraphs with the appropriate support in each

                          bull Apply effective transitions to match the organization of the content

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          30

                          Conclusion

                          bull Write a brief conclusion in which you return - with force - to your position

                          bull Try to come full-circle ndash return to idea you usedmentioned in your introduction

                          bull Consider analogies to your point in the introduction to avoid merely repeating the introduction

                          6

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          31

                          Voice and Style - redux

                          bull Generally use a less formal style than with analysis essays

                          bull Use first person if it seems naturalbull AVOID second person - ldquoyourdquobull Write naturally past tense is okaybull Use exact diction (avoid non-specific

                          language ldquoonerdquo ldquothingrdquo etchellip)

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          32

                          Answer the Question

                          bull Look for key wordsbull Choose only one approachbull Use a variety of evidencebull Be specific

                          The study of rhetoric stretches back to classical Greece Today the term is most commonly taken pejoratively meaning bombastic or exaggerated language But rhetoric also has a neutral meaningmdashrhetoric as the art or science of persuasion by means of stylistic and structural techniques The study of rhetoric is useful because it encourages us to think of writing (and speaking for that matter) as a series of strategic choices Every attempt to put words together includes choices about which words to use and how to arrange them In this sense all writers like it or not use rhetoric

                          Even simplicity is a rhetorical and political choice George Orwell for instance was a master of the plain style and used it to devastating effect in his political journalism and novels like 1984 and

                          Animal Farm (for more on the rhetoric of simplicity see Hugh Kenner ldquoThe Politics of the Plain Stylerdquo in Literary Journalism in the Twentieth Century ed Norman Sims [New York Oxford University Press 1990])

                          Rhetoric is also useful because it encourages thinking about ones audience Different audiences require different rhetorical choices In the following section Ill list some of the most pertinent rhetorical techniques or tropes when writing for academic audiences

                          Diction

                          Perhaps the first rhetorical choice a writer makesmdashand all writers make this choice whether they realize it or notmdashis diction or what words to use Different words even if they ostensibly mean the same thing have different connotations as the poet W H Auden well understood And different audiences have different expectations about appropriate diction Academic writing requires a more formal diction than everyday talk or journalism and within academe writing in the natural sciences requires a more formal diction than writing in the humanities Im no great fan of formality in writing but on the other hand one does need to know and respect the conventions of academe and other professional forums for serious writing

                          ORIGINAL REVISION

                          The layers of dirt were not messed up at all The sedimentary levels were undisturbed

                          In general the more specialized training a profession requires the more it develops its own jargon as a way of differentiating those who have acquired the proper training from those who have not Twist a policemans arm for instance and you still probably couldnt get him to say car or robber or gun or hit or saw long professional training has habituated him to vehicle alleged perpetrator firearm strike and observed This kind of Official Style diction is all around us Students tend to learn it as the epitome of adult discourse and to go too far in incorporating it into their own writing

                          My general advice regarding diction is to prefer plain to fancy unless the scholarly field expects a particular word Since appropriate choices vary within specific disciplines and sometimes between individual scholars my suggestion to students is to locate model

                          authors within their chosen fields and study those authors diction and other rhetorical strategies Your professors can help you find good models ask them to recommend respected scholars who write well There are always at least a few in every field

                          Parallelism

                          Parallelism is one of the most useful and flexible rhetorical techniques It refers to any structure which brings together parallel elements be these nouns adjectives verbs adverbs or larger structures Done well parallelism imparts grace and power to passage

                          The princes strength is also his weakness his self-reliance is also isolation

                          In Machiavellis world Sheldon Wolin observes moral ends have been replaced by ironies answers have been replaced by questions

                          The characters are all watching one another forming theories about one another listening contriving

                          One side sees Lincoln as a bold and shrewd leader sincerely committed to abolishing slavery the other sees him as an opportunistic politician concerned only to defend the union in any way possible

                          Problems with faulty parallelism are very common because many people know (or think they know) what they want to say and dont scrutinize what they actually write In the following examples the parallel elements in the revisions are emphasized

                          ORIGINAL REVISION

                          Someone acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                          Acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                          Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and the need to get rid of sentimental attachments

                          Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and ridding oneself of sentimental attachments

                          Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and he tries to avoid marriage

                          Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and tries to avoid marriage

                          One frequent source of trouble is nested listsmdashwhen one sublist occurs within another list The writer of this sentence lost track and thought the final comma signaled the last item in the main list

                          Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American

                          Association of Colleges and Universities

                          The trick is to recognize that this is actually a nested list and maintain parallelism within each list

                          Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers and in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                          The list is technically okay but its complexity makes it a bit hard to read One could rearrange the list to emphasize different elements and allow some pauses

                          Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and in targeted outlets like the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                          Note that among other changes the revision adds the word targeted which makes it easier to get the lists logic As ever revision is equal parts rewriting and rethinking

                          One other problem with parallelism is fairly common though this is a stylistic rather than a grammatical lapse Writers often repeat too much in the parallel elements detracting from parallelisms economical elegance

                          ORIGINAL REVISION

                          Socrates led a private life as opposed to a public life

                          Socrates led a private rather than a public life

                          Parallelism can be employed in many different ways One spin is inversion or chiasmus in which parallel elements are carefully reversed for emphasis A famous example comes from President John F Kennedys inaugural address (1961)

                          Ask not what your country can do for youmdashask what you can do for your country

                          Inversion often gains power by focusing attention on the ends of sentences where readers and listeners naturally pause Kennedys example shows this as does the next example from a 19th-century religious leader defending his honesty despite his change of religion

                          I have changed in many things in this I have not

                          By putting the prepositional phrase in this at the beginning of the second clause the speaker is able to end on that emphatic final not

                          Repetition

                          Repetition is one of the most useful tools available to writers Repetition allows a writer or speaker to hammer home an idea image or relationship to force the reader or listener to pay attention Two classic examples of the incredible power of repetition are Mark Antonys They are all honorable men speech in Shakespeares Julius Caesar (32) and Martin Luther King Jrs I have a dream speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963

                          But many writers especially young writers fear repetition apparently believing that repeating a word within a single sentence or short passage is bad style H W Fowler author of the old but still recommended Fowlers Modern English Usage (1st ed 1926) called this tendency elegant variation and observed There are few literary faults so widely prevalent

                          Heres an example of a student working hard to avoid repeating words within a sentence It doesnt work well the revision repeats words and reads more easily

                          ORIGINAL REVISION

                          The test group got an average of seven test questions correct the mean for the control category was thirteen valid responses

                          The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group averaged thirteen

                          The originals nervous avoidance of repetition (for instance using first group and then category) makes it a bit hard to follow The revision by contrast is easier to follow because it repeats words and syntactical structures Note that repetition allows the writer to cut some repeated elements and focus attention on the key information the contrast

                          Practiced writers will also employ all sorts of variations on this pattern of repetition

                          The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group thirteen

                          The test group averaged seven correct answers to the control groups thirteen

                          Another example of a writer afraid of repetition

                          ORIGINAL REVISION

                          First the North Koreans made an incursion almost all the way down the peninsula then Americans and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                          First the North Koreans drove almost all the way down the peninsula then American and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                          In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

                          Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

                          We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

                          Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

                          Using tenses consistently

                          Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

                          ORIGINAL REVISION

                          Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                          Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                          The historical present

                          One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

                          ORIGINAL REVISION

                          Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

                          Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

                          Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

                          But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

                          ORIGINAL REVISION

                          Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

                          This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

                          ORIGINAL REVISION

                          A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                          A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                          But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

                          Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

                          Alliteration

                          Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

                          Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

                          As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

                          The rule of three

                          This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

                          Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

                          doesnt try to soften his image

                          A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

                          The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

                          Humor

                          Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

                          First and second person

                          Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

                          You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

                          Questions and exclamations

                          Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

                          Placing emphasis

                          If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

                          These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

                          ORIGINAL REVISION

                          True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

                          True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

                          The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

                          There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

                          Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

                          Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

                          relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

                          from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

                          consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

                          Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

                          Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

                          Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

                          1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

                          Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

                          bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

                          statements and actions essential to understanding a character

                          bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

                          bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

                          bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

                          choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

                          bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

                          yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

                          intuits is of significance to understanding the text

                          (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

                          SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                          1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                          2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                          Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                          The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                          A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                          Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                          Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                          OR ndash

                          The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                          Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                          Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                          bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                          bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                          is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                          participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                          bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                          o Me Up At Does

                          Me up at does

                          out of the floor

                          quietly Stare

                          a poisoned mouse

                          still who alive

                          is asking What

                          have I done that

                          You wouldnt have

                          In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                          The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                          Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                          A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                          B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                          1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                          D Variety of sentence patterns

                          1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                          E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                          1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                          Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                          Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                          denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                          connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                          Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                          The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                          overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                          Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                          1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                          2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                          3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                          4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                          Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                          Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                          These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                          Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                          No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                          Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                          We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                          SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                          In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                          Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                          Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                          (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                          In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                          Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                          not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                          rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                          SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                          Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                          VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                          WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                          differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                          alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                          TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                          details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                          setting plot details point of view diction

                          READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                          impact shock anger awareness connections

                          contrasts mood images imagery tones

                          Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                          Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                          but rather hywoamninnad

                          ffiimonm

                          snaafislaapffabuaain

                          nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                          kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                          condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                          Contrast and Comparision

                          or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                          Emphasis and Repetition

                          or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                          ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                          Time

                          oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                          rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                          in futur subsequently

                          Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                          ound e de whenever op

                          eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                          n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                          at the right before between

                          in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                          R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                          in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                          TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                          Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                          words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                          ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                          1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                          Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                          2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                          Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                          Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                          additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                          Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                          Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                          Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                          Words that Identify

                          that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                          that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                          but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                          Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                          Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                          Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                          Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                          CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                          seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                          Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                          EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                          Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                          Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                          SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                          in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                          previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                          finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                          to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                          Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                          Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                          EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                          Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                          Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                          core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                          Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                          Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                          As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                          Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                          other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                          Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                          Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                          Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                          In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                          Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                          (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                          AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                          from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                          drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                          principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                          the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                          15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                          known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                          of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                          choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                          itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                          APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                          bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                          guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                          authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                          sense of urgency specific examples

                          LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                          bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                          bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                          ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                          ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                          Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                          State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                          THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                          Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                          1

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          1

                          AP English Languageand Composition

                          Synthesis Question

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          2

                          Format

                          bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                          and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                          position on topic addressed in sources

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          3

                          Sources

                          bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                          other visual

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          4

                          Types of Sources

                          bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          5

                          Synthesize the Argument

                          bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                          bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                          bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                          bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          6

                          Distinctions

                          bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                          Source B etchellip)

                          2

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          7

                          Savvy Writers

                          bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                          their argument

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                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          8

                          Six-Part Approach

                          bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          9

                          Readhellip and Analyze

                          bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                          makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                          assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          10

                          Generalize

                          bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                          bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                          bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                          bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          11

                          Converse

                          bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                          bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                          bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          12

                          Finesse

                          bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                          bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                          bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                          3

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          13

                          Argue

                          bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                          takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                          14

                          Conclusion

                          bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                          position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                          THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                          WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                          1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                          You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                          3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                          EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                          How to improve your essay writing grade

                          1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                          exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                          Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                          The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                          EXAMPLE

                          Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                          If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                          1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                          concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                          Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                          Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                          Weaving To break away from the formula

                          1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                          2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                          3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                          4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                          EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                          1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                          2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                          earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                          3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                          4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                          5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                          ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                          6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                          7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                          8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                          his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                          work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                          your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                          develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                          bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                          1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                          Top Ten Mistakes

                          Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                          An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                          Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                          And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                          10 Apostrophes

                          Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                          WRONG RIGHT

                          Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                          Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                          Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                          Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                          Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                          WRONG RIGHT

                          The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                          The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                          For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                          Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                          There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                          Moses leadership

                          Socrates wisdom

                          Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                          Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                          8 Conjunction confusion

                          Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                          WRONG RIGHT

                          Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                          Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                          Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                          Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                          Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                          Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                          WRONG RIGHT

                          Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                          Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                          6 Cannot

                          One word not two (not can not)

                          5 Affect and effect

                          Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                          She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                          For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                          She affected the IRSs procedures

                          WRONG RIGHT

                          A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                          A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                          4 Intents and purposes

                          Not intensive purposes

                          WRONG RIGHT

                          For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                          For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                          3 Plural or singular

                          It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                          WRONG RIGHT

                          The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                          The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                          Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                          2 Principalprinciple

                          Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                          WRONG RIGHT

                          Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                          Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                          Heres how to remember the difference

                          principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                          principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                          1 Itsits

                          Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                          WRONG RIGHT

                          The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                          The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                          Whos and whose have the same distinction

                          WRONG RIGHT

                          Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                          Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                          (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                          When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                          Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                          Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                          These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                          1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                          2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                          3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                          4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                          5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                          5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                          7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                          8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                          9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                          10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                          Why it matters

                          In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                          What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                          Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                          hink

                          • AP Review coverdoc
                          • APMCPacketpdf
                            • AP MC Reviewpdf
                            • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                              • Questions on the whole passage
                              • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                • Analysis of a paragraph
                                • Analysis of words or phrases
                                  • Grammatical constructions
                                  • Antecedents
                                  • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                    • Vocabulary in context
                                        • MCVocabdoc
                                          • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                          • ToneStyle Words
                                          • Grammatical Construction
                                          • General Vocabulary
                                            • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                            • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                            • ScorCalculpdf
                                              • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                • Rhetoricdoc
                                                • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                • promptpdf
                                                • Annotating Textdoc
                                                • Syntaxdoc
                                                  • SYNTAX
                                                    • Improving writing
                                                    • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                    • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                        • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                          • Diction and Tone
                                                            • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                            • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                            • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                            • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                            • Argumentationdoc
                                                            • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                            • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                            • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                              • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                  • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                    • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                    • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                      • 2005Bpdf
                                                                      • 2006Bpdf

                            4

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            19

                            Style and Voice (contrsquod)

                            bull Best to use third person (he she they) rather than first person

                            bull Try to use present tense when discussing literaturewritten text

                            bull Write legibly ndash the readers cannot reward you for what you do well if they cannot read it

                            bull Let your work stand on its own merits ndash no pity notes (ldquoI was up all nightrdquo etchellip

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            20

                            Verbs that contribute

                            bull Chroniclesbull Delineatesbull Demonstratesbull Depictsbull Exemplifiesbull Featuresbull Illuminates

                            bull Portraysbull Reflectsbull Specifiesbull Suggestsbull Illustratesbull DO NOT USE

                            ndash goes shows tells

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            21

                            Argumentation

                            bull Defend ndash Support ndash agree completelybull Challenge ndash Dispute ndash disagree

                            completelybull Qualify ndash means to agree or disagree

                            except in certain circumstancesbull Choose the approach for which you can

                            find the most evidence Take a stand Donrsquot straddle the fence

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            22

                            Step One

                            bull Determine the point of the author in the passage

                            bull Develop you own position on that point (Agree Disagree Qualify)

                            bull Choose the side for which you have the most detail for support

                            bull This provides the details for you introduction

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            23

                            Finding Evidence (details)

                            bull If appropriate find details from a variety of sources

                            bull Use historybull Use sciencebull Use literaturebull Use current eventsbull Use personal observation

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            24

                            Be Specific with Details

                            bull Reasons ndash use illustrationsbull Examples ndash include names titlesbull Incidents ndash include dates placesbull FactsStatistics ndash DO NOT make them upbull Personal Experience ndash donrsquot generalize

                            use names places

                            5

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            25

                            Use Quality Detail

                            bull Avoid inaccuracies ndash BE RIGHTbull Add as many specifics as possible ndash

                            specific names specific dates specific titles

                            bull Be coherent ndash include only RELEVANT detailshellipmore is NOT necessarily merrierhellipdonrsquot include details that donrsquot directly support your point

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            26

                            Organize the Argument

                            bull Write a strong thesis ndash state your position clearly

                            bull Formulate 3-4 paragraphsbull Admit the opposition ndash acknowledge the

                            opposing argumentbull Make your points relevant and accuratebull Add a conclusion

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            27

                            Argument Intro

                            bull Write a short intro in which youhellipbull Explain the position of the authorbull Present your position and any background

                            the reader needs to knowbull Include a strong thesis ndash one that clearly

                            presents the position (defend challenge qualify)

                            bull Do NOT repeat the promptBroward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            28

                            Concession

                            bull Think of the argument the opposing side might propose

                            bull Be willing to concede a pointbull Think of ways to acknowledge those

                            arguments and refute thembull Might place after your introduction donrsquot

                            spend more than two sentences

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            29

                            The Body

                            bull Start with the weakest and end with the strongest

                            bull Divide your assertions into paragraphs with the appropriate support in each

                            bull Apply effective transitions to match the organization of the content

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            30

                            Conclusion

                            bull Write a brief conclusion in which you return - with force - to your position

                            bull Try to come full-circle ndash return to idea you usedmentioned in your introduction

                            bull Consider analogies to your point in the introduction to avoid merely repeating the introduction

                            6

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            31

                            Voice and Style - redux

                            bull Generally use a less formal style than with analysis essays

                            bull Use first person if it seems naturalbull AVOID second person - ldquoyourdquobull Write naturally past tense is okaybull Use exact diction (avoid non-specific

                            language ldquoonerdquo ldquothingrdquo etchellip)

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            32

                            Answer the Question

                            bull Look for key wordsbull Choose only one approachbull Use a variety of evidencebull Be specific

                            The study of rhetoric stretches back to classical Greece Today the term is most commonly taken pejoratively meaning bombastic or exaggerated language But rhetoric also has a neutral meaningmdashrhetoric as the art or science of persuasion by means of stylistic and structural techniques The study of rhetoric is useful because it encourages us to think of writing (and speaking for that matter) as a series of strategic choices Every attempt to put words together includes choices about which words to use and how to arrange them In this sense all writers like it or not use rhetoric

                            Even simplicity is a rhetorical and political choice George Orwell for instance was a master of the plain style and used it to devastating effect in his political journalism and novels like 1984 and

                            Animal Farm (for more on the rhetoric of simplicity see Hugh Kenner ldquoThe Politics of the Plain Stylerdquo in Literary Journalism in the Twentieth Century ed Norman Sims [New York Oxford University Press 1990])

                            Rhetoric is also useful because it encourages thinking about ones audience Different audiences require different rhetorical choices In the following section Ill list some of the most pertinent rhetorical techniques or tropes when writing for academic audiences

                            Diction

                            Perhaps the first rhetorical choice a writer makesmdashand all writers make this choice whether they realize it or notmdashis diction or what words to use Different words even if they ostensibly mean the same thing have different connotations as the poet W H Auden well understood And different audiences have different expectations about appropriate diction Academic writing requires a more formal diction than everyday talk or journalism and within academe writing in the natural sciences requires a more formal diction than writing in the humanities Im no great fan of formality in writing but on the other hand one does need to know and respect the conventions of academe and other professional forums for serious writing

                            ORIGINAL REVISION

                            The layers of dirt were not messed up at all The sedimentary levels were undisturbed

                            In general the more specialized training a profession requires the more it develops its own jargon as a way of differentiating those who have acquired the proper training from those who have not Twist a policemans arm for instance and you still probably couldnt get him to say car or robber or gun or hit or saw long professional training has habituated him to vehicle alleged perpetrator firearm strike and observed This kind of Official Style diction is all around us Students tend to learn it as the epitome of adult discourse and to go too far in incorporating it into their own writing

                            My general advice regarding diction is to prefer plain to fancy unless the scholarly field expects a particular word Since appropriate choices vary within specific disciplines and sometimes between individual scholars my suggestion to students is to locate model

                            authors within their chosen fields and study those authors diction and other rhetorical strategies Your professors can help you find good models ask them to recommend respected scholars who write well There are always at least a few in every field

                            Parallelism

                            Parallelism is one of the most useful and flexible rhetorical techniques It refers to any structure which brings together parallel elements be these nouns adjectives verbs adverbs or larger structures Done well parallelism imparts grace and power to passage

                            The princes strength is also his weakness his self-reliance is also isolation

                            In Machiavellis world Sheldon Wolin observes moral ends have been replaced by ironies answers have been replaced by questions

                            The characters are all watching one another forming theories about one another listening contriving

                            One side sees Lincoln as a bold and shrewd leader sincerely committed to abolishing slavery the other sees him as an opportunistic politician concerned only to defend the union in any way possible

                            Problems with faulty parallelism are very common because many people know (or think they know) what they want to say and dont scrutinize what they actually write In the following examples the parallel elements in the revisions are emphasized

                            ORIGINAL REVISION

                            Someone acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                            Acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                            Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and the need to get rid of sentimental attachments

                            Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and ridding oneself of sentimental attachments

                            Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and he tries to avoid marriage

                            Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and tries to avoid marriage

                            One frequent source of trouble is nested listsmdashwhen one sublist occurs within another list The writer of this sentence lost track and thought the final comma signaled the last item in the main list

                            Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American

                            Association of Colleges and Universities

                            The trick is to recognize that this is actually a nested list and maintain parallelism within each list

                            Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers and in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                            The list is technically okay but its complexity makes it a bit hard to read One could rearrange the list to emphasize different elements and allow some pauses

                            Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and in targeted outlets like the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                            Note that among other changes the revision adds the word targeted which makes it easier to get the lists logic As ever revision is equal parts rewriting and rethinking

                            One other problem with parallelism is fairly common though this is a stylistic rather than a grammatical lapse Writers often repeat too much in the parallel elements detracting from parallelisms economical elegance

                            ORIGINAL REVISION

                            Socrates led a private life as opposed to a public life

                            Socrates led a private rather than a public life

                            Parallelism can be employed in many different ways One spin is inversion or chiasmus in which parallel elements are carefully reversed for emphasis A famous example comes from President John F Kennedys inaugural address (1961)

                            Ask not what your country can do for youmdashask what you can do for your country

                            Inversion often gains power by focusing attention on the ends of sentences where readers and listeners naturally pause Kennedys example shows this as does the next example from a 19th-century religious leader defending his honesty despite his change of religion

                            I have changed in many things in this I have not

                            By putting the prepositional phrase in this at the beginning of the second clause the speaker is able to end on that emphatic final not

                            Repetition

                            Repetition is one of the most useful tools available to writers Repetition allows a writer or speaker to hammer home an idea image or relationship to force the reader or listener to pay attention Two classic examples of the incredible power of repetition are Mark Antonys They are all honorable men speech in Shakespeares Julius Caesar (32) and Martin Luther King Jrs I have a dream speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963

                            But many writers especially young writers fear repetition apparently believing that repeating a word within a single sentence or short passage is bad style H W Fowler author of the old but still recommended Fowlers Modern English Usage (1st ed 1926) called this tendency elegant variation and observed There are few literary faults so widely prevalent

                            Heres an example of a student working hard to avoid repeating words within a sentence It doesnt work well the revision repeats words and reads more easily

                            ORIGINAL REVISION

                            The test group got an average of seven test questions correct the mean for the control category was thirteen valid responses

                            The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group averaged thirteen

                            The originals nervous avoidance of repetition (for instance using first group and then category) makes it a bit hard to follow The revision by contrast is easier to follow because it repeats words and syntactical structures Note that repetition allows the writer to cut some repeated elements and focus attention on the key information the contrast

                            Practiced writers will also employ all sorts of variations on this pattern of repetition

                            The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group thirteen

                            The test group averaged seven correct answers to the control groups thirteen

                            Another example of a writer afraid of repetition

                            ORIGINAL REVISION

                            First the North Koreans made an incursion almost all the way down the peninsula then Americans and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                            First the North Koreans drove almost all the way down the peninsula then American and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                            In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

                            Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

                            We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

                            Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

                            Using tenses consistently

                            Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

                            ORIGINAL REVISION

                            Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                            Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                            The historical present

                            One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

                            ORIGINAL REVISION

                            Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

                            Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

                            Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

                            But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

                            ORIGINAL REVISION

                            Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

                            This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

                            ORIGINAL REVISION

                            A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                            A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                            But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

                            Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

                            Alliteration

                            Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

                            Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

                            As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

                            The rule of three

                            This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

                            Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

                            doesnt try to soften his image

                            A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

                            The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

                            Humor

                            Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

                            First and second person

                            Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

                            You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

                            Questions and exclamations

                            Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

                            Placing emphasis

                            If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

                            These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

                            ORIGINAL REVISION

                            True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

                            True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

                            The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

                            There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

                            Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

                            Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

                            relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

                            from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

                            consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

                            Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

                            Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

                            Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

                            1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

                            Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

                            bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

                            statements and actions essential to understanding a character

                            bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

                            bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

                            bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

                            choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

                            bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

                            yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

                            intuits is of significance to understanding the text

                            (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

                            SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                            1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                            2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                            Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                            The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                            A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                            Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                            Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                            OR ndash

                            The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                            Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                            Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                            bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                            bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                            is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                            participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                            bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                            o Me Up At Does

                            Me up at does

                            out of the floor

                            quietly Stare

                            a poisoned mouse

                            still who alive

                            is asking What

                            have I done that

                            You wouldnt have

                            In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                            The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                            Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                            A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                            B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                            1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                            D Variety of sentence patterns

                            1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                            E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                            1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                            Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                            Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                            denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                            connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                            Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                            The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                            overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                            Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                            1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                            2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                            3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                            4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                            Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                            Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                            These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                            Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                            No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                            Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                            We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                            SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                            In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                            Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                            Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                            (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                            In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                            Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                            not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                            rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                            SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                            Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                            VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                            WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                            differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                            alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                            TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                            details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                            setting plot details point of view diction

                            READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                            impact shock anger awareness connections

                            contrasts mood images imagery tones

                            Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                            Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                            but rather hywoamninnad

                            ffiimonm

                            snaafislaapffabuaain

                            nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                            kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                            condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                            Contrast and Comparision

                            or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                            Emphasis and Repetition

                            or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                            ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                            Time

                            oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                            rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                            in futur subsequently

                            Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                            ound e de whenever op

                            eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                            n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                            at the right before between

                            in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                            R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                            in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                            TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                            Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                            words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                            ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                            1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                            Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                            2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                            Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                            Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                            additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                            Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                            Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                            Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                            Words that Identify

                            that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                            that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                            but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                            Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                            Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                            Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                            Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                            CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                            seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                            Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                            EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                            Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                            Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                            SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                            in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                            previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                            finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                            to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                            Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                            Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                            EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                            Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                            Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                            core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                            Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                            Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                            As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                            Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                            other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                            Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                            Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                            Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                            In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                            Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                            (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                            AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                            from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                            drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                            principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                            the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                            15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                            known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                            of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                            choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                            itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                            APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                            bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                            guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                            authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                            sense of urgency specific examples

                            LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                            bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                            bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                            ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                            ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                            Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                            State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                            THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                            Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                            1

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            1

                            AP English Languageand Composition

                            Synthesis Question

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            2

                            Format

                            bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                            and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                            position on topic addressed in sources

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            3

                            Sources

                            bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                            other visual

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            4

                            Types of Sources

                            bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            5

                            Synthesize the Argument

                            bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                            bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                            bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                            bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            6

                            Distinctions

                            bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                            Source B etchellip)

                            2

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            7

                            Savvy Writers

                            bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                            their argument

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            8

                            Six-Part Approach

                            bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            9

                            Readhellip and Analyze

                            bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                            makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                            assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            10

                            Generalize

                            bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                            bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                            bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                            bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            11

                            Converse

                            bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                            bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                            bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            12

                            Finesse

                            bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                            bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                            bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                            3

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            13

                            Argue

                            bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                            takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                            14

                            Conclusion

                            bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                            position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                            THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                            WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                            1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                            You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                            3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                            EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                            How to improve your essay writing grade

                            1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                            exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                            Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                            The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                            EXAMPLE

                            Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                            If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                            1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                            concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                            Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                            Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                            Weaving To break away from the formula

                            1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                            2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                            3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                            4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                            EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                            1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                            2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                            earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                            3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                            4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                            5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                            ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                            6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                            7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                            8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                            his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                            work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                            your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                            develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                            bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                            1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                            Top Ten Mistakes

                            Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                            An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                            Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                            And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                            10 Apostrophes

                            Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                            WRONG RIGHT

                            Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                            Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                            Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                            Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                            Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                            WRONG RIGHT

                            The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                            The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                            For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                            Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                            There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                            Moses leadership

                            Socrates wisdom

                            Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                            Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                            8 Conjunction confusion

                            Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                            WRONG RIGHT

                            Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                            Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                            Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                            Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                            Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                            Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                            WRONG RIGHT

                            Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                            Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                            6 Cannot

                            One word not two (not can not)

                            5 Affect and effect

                            Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                            She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                            For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                            She affected the IRSs procedures

                            WRONG RIGHT

                            A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                            A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                            4 Intents and purposes

                            Not intensive purposes

                            WRONG RIGHT

                            For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                            For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                            3 Plural or singular

                            It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                            WRONG RIGHT

                            The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                            The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                            Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                            2 Principalprinciple

                            Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                            WRONG RIGHT

                            Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                            Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                            Heres how to remember the difference

                            principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                            principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                            1 Itsits

                            Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                            WRONG RIGHT

                            The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                            The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                            Whos and whose have the same distinction

                            WRONG RIGHT

                            Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                            Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                            (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                            When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                            Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                            Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                            These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                            1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                            2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                            3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                            4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                            5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                            5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                            7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                            8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                            9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                            10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                            Why it matters

                            In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                            What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                            Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                            hink

                            • AP Review coverdoc
                            • APMCPacketpdf
                              • AP MC Reviewpdf
                              • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                • Questions on the whole passage
                                • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                  • Analysis of a paragraph
                                  • Analysis of words or phrases
                                    • Grammatical constructions
                                    • Antecedents
                                    • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                      • Vocabulary in context
                                          • MCVocabdoc
                                            • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                            • ToneStyle Words
                                            • Grammatical Construction
                                            • General Vocabulary
                                              • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
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                                                  • Rhetoricdoc
                                                  • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                  • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                  • promptpdf
                                                  • Annotating Textdoc
                                                  • Syntaxdoc
                                                    • SYNTAX
                                                      • Improving writing
                                                      • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                      • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                          • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                            • Diction and Tone
                                                              • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                              • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                              • TRANSITIONSdoc
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                                                              • Argumentationdoc
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                                                              • Logical Fallaciesdoc
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                                                                  • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                  • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                    • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                      • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                      • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                        • 2005Bpdf
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                              5

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              25

                              Use Quality Detail

                              bull Avoid inaccuracies ndash BE RIGHTbull Add as many specifics as possible ndash

                              specific names specific dates specific titles

                              bull Be coherent ndash include only RELEVANT detailshellipmore is NOT necessarily merrierhellipdonrsquot include details that donrsquot directly support your point

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              26

                              Organize the Argument

                              bull Write a strong thesis ndash state your position clearly

                              bull Formulate 3-4 paragraphsbull Admit the opposition ndash acknowledge the

                              opposing argumentbull Make your points relevant and accuratebull Add a conclusion

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              27

                              Argument Intro

                              bull Write a short intro in which youhellipbull Explain the position of the authorbull Present your position and any background

                              the reader needs to knowbull Include a strong thesis ndash one that clearly

                              presents the position (defend challenge qualify)

                              bull Do NOT repeat the promptBroward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              28

                              Concession

                              bull Think of the argument the opposing side might propose

                              bull Be willing to concede a pointbull Think of ways to acknowledge those

                              arguments and refute thembull Might place after your introduction donrsquot

                              spend more than two sentences

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              29

                              The Body

                              bull Start with the weakest and end with the strongest

                              bull Divide your assertions into paragraphs with the appropriate support in each

                              bull Apply effective transitions to match the organization of the content

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              30

                              Conclusion

                              bull Write a brief conclusion in which you return - with force - to your position

                              bull Try to come full-circle ndash return to idea you usedmentioned in your introduction

                              bull Consider analogies to your point in the introduction to avoid merely repeating the introduction

                              6

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              31

                              Voice and Style - redux

                              bull Generally use a less formal style than with analysis essays

                              bull Use first person if it seems naturalbull AVOID second person - ldquoyourdquobull Write naturally past tense is okaybull Use exact diction (avoid non-specific

                              language ldquoonerdquo ldquothingrdquo etchellip)

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              32

                              Answer the Question

                              bull Look for key wordsbull Choose only one approachbull Use a variety of evidencebull Be specific

                              The study of rhetoric stretches back to classical Greece Today the term is most commonly taken pejoratively meaning bombastic or exaggerated language But rhetoric also has a neutral meaningmdashrhetoric as the art or science of persuasion by means of stylistic and structural techniques The study of rhetoric is useful because it encourages us to think of writing (and speaking for that matter) as a series of strategic choices Every attempt to put words together includes choices about which words to use and how to arrange them In this sense all writers like it or not use rhetoric

                              Even simplicity is a rhetorical and political choice George Orwell for instance was a master of the plain style and used it to devastating effect in his political journalism and novels like 1984 and

                              Animal Farm (for more on the rhetoric of simplicity see Hugh Kenner ldquoThe Politics of the Plain Stylerdquo in Literary Journalism in the Twentieth Century ed Norman Sims [New York Oxford University Press 1990])

                              Rhetoric is also useful because it encourages thinking about ones audience Different audiences require different rhetorical choices In the following section Ill list some of the most pertinent rhetorical techniques or tropes when writing for academic audiences

                              Diction

                              Perhaps the first rhetorical choice a writer makesmdashand all writers make this choice whether they realize it or notmdashis diction or what words to use Different words even if they ostensibly mean the same thing have different connotations as the poet W H Auden well understood And different audiences have different expectations about appropriate diction Academic writing requires a more formal diction than everyday talk or journalism and within academe writing in the natural sciences requires a more formal diction than writing in the humanities Im no great fan of formality in writing but on the other hand one does need to know and respect the conventions of academe and other professional forums for serious writing

                              ORIGINAL REVISION

                              The layers of dirt were not messed up at all The sedimentary levels were undisturbed

                              In general the more specialized training a profession requires the more it develops its own jargon as a way of differentiating those who have acquired the proper training from those who have not Twist a policemans arm for instance and you still probably couldnt get him to say car or robber or gun or hit or saw long professional training has habituated him to vehicle alleged perpetrator firearm strike and observed This kind of Official Style diction is all around us Students tend to learn it as the epitome of adult discourse and to go too far in incorporating it into their own writing

                              My general advice regarding diction is to prefer plain to fancy unless the scholarly field expects a particular word Since appropriate choices vary within specific disciplines and sometimes between individual scholars my suggestion to students is to locate model

                              authors within their chosen fields and study those authors diction and other rhetorical strategies Your professors can help you find good models ask them to recommend respected scholars who write well There are always at least a few in every field

                              Parallelism

                              Parallelism is one of the most useful and flexible rhetorical techniques It refers to any structure which brings together parallel elements be these nouns adjectives verbs adverbs or larger structures Done well parallelism imparts grace and power to passage

                              The princes strength is also his weakness his self-reliance is also isolation

                              In Machiavellis world Sheldon Wolin observes moral ends have been replaced by ironies answers have been replaced by questions

                              The characters are all watching one another forming theories about one another listening contriving

                              One side sees Lincoln as a bold and shrewd leader sincerely committed to abolishing slavery the other sees him as an opportunistic politician concerned only to defend the union in any way possible

                              Problems with faulty parallelism are very common because many people know (or think they know) what they want to say and dont scrutinize what they actually write In the following examples the parallel elements in the revisions are emphasized

                              ORIGINAL REVISION

                              Someone acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                              Acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                              Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and the need to get rid of sentimental attachments

                              Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and ridding oneself of sentimental attachments

                              Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and he tries to avoid marriage

                              Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and tries to avoid marriage

                              One frequent source of trouble is nested listsmdashwhen one sublist occurs within another list The writer of this sentence lost track and thought the final comma signaled the last item in the main list

                              Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American

                              Association of Colleges and Universities

                              The trick is to recognize that this is actually a nested list and maintain parallelism within each list

                              Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers and in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                              The list is technically okay but its complexity makes it a bit hard to read One could rearrange the list to emphasize different elements and allow some pauses

                              Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and in targeted outlets like the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                              Note that among other changes the revision adds the word targeted which makes it easier to get the lists logic As ever revision is equal parts rewriting and rethinking

                              One other problem with parallelism is fairly common though this is a stylistic rather than a grammatical lapse Writers often repeat too much in the parallel elements detracting from parallelisms economical elegance

                              ORIGINAL REVISION

                              Socrates led a private life as opposed to a public life

                              Socrates led a private rather than a public life

                              Parallelism can be employed in many different ways One spin is inversion or chiasmus in which parallel elements are carefully reversed for emphasis A famous example comes from President John F Kennedys inaugural address (1961)

                              Ask not what your country can do for youmdashask what you can do for your country

                              Inversion often gains power by focusing attention on the ends of sentences where readers and listeners naturally pause Kennedys example shows this as does the next example from a 19th-century religious leader defending his honesty despite his change of religion

                              I have changed in many things in this I have not

                              By putting the prepositional phrase in this at the beginning of the second clause the speaker is able to end on that emphatic final not

                              Repetition

                              Repetition is one of the most useful tools available to writers Repetition allows a writer or speaker to hammer home an idea image or relationship to force the reader or listener to pay attention Two classic examples of the incredible power of repetition are Mark Antonys They are all honorable men speech in Shakespeares Julius Caesar (32) and Martin Luther King Jrs I have a dream speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963

                              But many writers especially young writers fear repetition apparently believing that repeating a word within a single sentence or short passage is bad style H W Fowler author of the old but still recommended Fowlers Modern English Usage (1st ed 1926) called this tendency elegant variation and observed There are few literary faults so widely prevalent

                              Heres an example of a student working hard to avoid repeating words within a sentence It doesnt work well the revision repeats words and reads more easily

                              ORIGINAL REVISION

                              The test group got an average of seven test questions correct the mean for the control category was thirteen valid responses

                              The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group averaged thirteen

                              The originals nervous avoidance of repetition (for instance using first group and then category) makes it a bit hard to follow The revision by contrast is easier to follow because it repeats words and syntactical structures Note that repetition allows the writer to cut some repeated elements and focus attention on the key information the contrast

                              Practiced writers will also employ all sorts of variations on this pattern of repetition

                              The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group thirteen

                              The test group averaged seven correct answers to the control groups thirteen

                              Another example of a writer afraid of repetition

                              ORIGINAL REVISION

                              First the North Koreans made an incursion almost all the way down the peninsula then Americans and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                              First the North Koreans drove almost all the way down the peninsula then American and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                              In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

                              Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

                              We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

                              Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

                              Using tenses consistently

                              Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

                              ORIGINAL REVISION

                              Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                              Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                              The historical present

                              One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

                              ORIGINAL REVISION

                              Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

                              Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

                              Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

                              But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

                              ORIGINAL REVISION

                              Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

                              This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

                              ORIGINAL REVISION

                              A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                              A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                              But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

                              Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

                              Alliteration

                              Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

                              Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

                              As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

                              The rule of three

                              This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

                              Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

                              doesnt try to soften his image

                              A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

                              The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

                              Humor

                              Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

                              First and second person

                              Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

                              You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

                              Questions and exclamations

                              Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

                              Placing emphasis

                              If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

                              These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

                              ORIGINAL REVISION

                              True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

                              True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

                              The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

                              There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

                              Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

                              Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

                              relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

                              from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

                              consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

                              Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

                              Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

                              Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

                              1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

                              Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

                              bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

                              statements and actions essential to understanding a character

                              bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

                              bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

                              bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

                              choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

                              bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

                              yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

                              intuits is of significance to understanding the text

                              (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

                              SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                              1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                              2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                              Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                              The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                              A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                              Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                              Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                              OR ndash

                              The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                              Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                              Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                              bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                              bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                              is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                              participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                              bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                              o Me Up At Does

                              Me up at does

                              out of the floor

                              quietly Stare

                              a poisoned mouse

                              still who alive

                              is asking What

                              have I done that

                              You wouldnt have

                              In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                              The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                              Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                              A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                              B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                              1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                              D Variety of sentence patterns

                              1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                              E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                              1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                              Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                              Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                              denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                              connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                              Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                              The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                              overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                              Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                              1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                              2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                              3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                              4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                              Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                              Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                              These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                              Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                              No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                              Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                              We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                              SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                              In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                              Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                              Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                              (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                              In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                              Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                              not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                              rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                              SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                              Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                              VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                              WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                              differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                              alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                              TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                              details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                              setting plot details point of view diction

                              READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                              impact shock anger awareness connections

                              contrasts mood images imagery tones

                              Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                              Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                              but rather hywoamninnad

                              ffiimonm

                              snaafislaapffabuaain

                              nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                              kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                              condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                              Contrast and Comparision

                              or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                              Emphasis and Repetition

                              or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                              ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                              Time

                              oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                              rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                              in futur subsequently

                              Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                              ound e de whenever op

                              eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                              n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                              at the right before between

                              in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                              R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                              in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                              TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                              Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                              words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                              ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                              1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                              Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                              2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                              Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                              Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                              additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                              Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                              Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                              Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                              Words that Identify

                              that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                              that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                              but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                              Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                              Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                              Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                              Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                              CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                              seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                              Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                              EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                              Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                              Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                              SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                              in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                              previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                              finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                              to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                              Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                              Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                              EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                              Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                              Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                              core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                              Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                              Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                              As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                              Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                              other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                              Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                              Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                              Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                              In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                              Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                              (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                              AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                              from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                              drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                              principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                              the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                              15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                              known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                              of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                              choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                              itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                              APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                              bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                              guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                              authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                              sense of urgency specific examples

                              LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                              bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                              bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                              ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                              ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                              Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                              State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                              THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                              Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                              1

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              1

                              AP English Languageand Composition

                              Synthesis Question

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              2

                              Format

                              bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                              and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                              position on topic addressed in sources

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              3

                              Sources

                              bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                              other visual

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              4

                              Types of Sources

                              bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              5

                              Synthesize the Argument

                              bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                              bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                              bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                              bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              6

                              Distinctions

                              bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                              Source B etchellip)

                              2

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              7

                              Savvy Writers

                              bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                              their argument

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              8

                              Six-Part Approach

                              bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              9

                              Readhellip and Analyze

                              bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                              makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                              assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              10

                              Generalize

                              bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                              bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                              bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                              bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              11

                              Converse

                              bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                              bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                              bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              12

                              Finesse

                              bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                              bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                              bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                              3

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              13

                              Argue

                              bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                              takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                              14

                              Conclusion

                              bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                              position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                              THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                              WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                              1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                              You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                              3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                              EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                              How to improve your essay writing grade

                              1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                              exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                              Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                              The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                              EXAMPLE

                              Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                              If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                              1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                              concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                              Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                              Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                              Weaving To break away from the formula

                              1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                              2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                              3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                              4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                              EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                              1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                              2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                              earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                              3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                              4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                              5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                              ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                              6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                              7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                              8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                              his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                              work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                              your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                              develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                              bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                              1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                              Top Ten Mistakes

                              Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                              An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                              Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                              And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                              10 Apostrophes

                              Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                              WRONG RIGHT

                              Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                              Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                              Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                              Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                              Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                              WRONG RIGHT

                              The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                              The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                              For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                              Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                              There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                              Moses leadership

                              Socrates wisdom

                              Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                              Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                              8 Conjunction confusion

                              Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                              WRONG RIGHT

                              Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                              Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                              Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                              Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                              Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                              Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                              WRONG RIGHT

                              Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                              Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                              6 Cannot

                              One word not two (not can not)

                              5 Affect and effect

                              Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                              She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                              For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                              She affected the IRSs procedures

                              WRONG RIGHT

                              A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                              A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                              4 Intents and purposes

                              Not intensive purposes

                              WRONG RIGHT

                              For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                              For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                              3 Plural or singular

                              It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                              WRONG RIGHT

                              The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                              The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                              Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                              2 Principalprinciple

                              Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                              WRONG RIGHT

                              Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                              Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                              Heres how to remember the difference

                              principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                              principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                              1 Itsits

                              Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                              WRONG RIGHT

                              The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                              The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                              Whos and whose have the same distinction

                              WRONG RIGHT

                              Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                              Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                              (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                              When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                              Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                              Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                              These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                              1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                              2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                              3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                              4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                              5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                              5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                              7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                              8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                              9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                              10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                              Why it matters

                              In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                              What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                              Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                              hink

                              • AP Review coverdoc
                              • APMCPacketpdf
                                • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                  • Questions on the whole passage
                                  • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                    • Analysis of a paragraph
                                    • Analysis of words or phrases
                                      • Grammatical constructions
                                      • Antecedents
                                      • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                        • Vocabulary in context
                                            • MCVocabdoc
                                              • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                              • ToneStyle Words
                                              • Grammatical Construction
                                              • General Vocabulary
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                                6

                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                31

                                Voice and Style - redux

                                bull Generally use a less formal style than with analysis essays

                                bull Use first person if it seems naturalbull AVOID second person - ldquoyourdquobull Write naturally past tense is okaybull Use exact diction (avoid non-specific

                                language ldquoonerdquo ldquothingrdquo etchellip)

                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                32

                                Answer the Question

                                bull Look for key wordsbull Choose only one approachbull Use a variety of evidencebull Be specific

                                The study of rhetoric stretches back to classical Greece Today the term is most commonly taken pejoratively meaning bombastic or exaggerated language But rhetoric also has a neutral meaningmdashrhetoric as the art or science of persuasion by means of stylistic and structural techniques The study of rhetoric is useful because it encourages us to think of writing (and speaking for that matter) as a series of strategic choices Every attempt to put words together includes choices about which words to use and how to arrange them In this sense all writers like it or not use rhetoric

                                Even simplicity is a rhetorical and political choice George Orwell for instance was a master of the plain style and used it to devastating effect in his political journalism and novels like 1984 and

                                Animal Farm (for more on the rhetoric of simplicity see Hugh Kenner ldquoThe Politics of the Plain Stylerdquo in Literary Journalism in the Twentieth Century ed Norman Sims [New York Oxford University Press 1990])

                                Rhetoric is also useful because it encourages thinking about ones audience Different audiences require different rhetorical choices In the following section Ill list some of the most pertinent rhetorical techniques or tropes when writing for academic audiences

                                Diction

                                Perhaps the first rhetorical choice a writer makesmdashand all writers make this choice whether they realize it or notmdashis diction or what words to use Different words even if they ostensibly mean the same thing have different connotations as the poet W H Auden well understood And different audiences have different expectations about appropriate diction Academic writing requires a more formal diction than everyday talk or journalism and within academe writing in the natural sciences requires a more formal diction than writing in the humanities Im no great fan of formality in writing but on the other hand one does need to know and respect the conventions of academe and other professional forums for serious writing

                                ORIGINAL REVISION

                                The layers of dirt were not messed up at all The sedimentary levels were undisturbed

                                In general the more specialized training a profession requires the more it develops its own jargon as a way of differentiating those who have acquired the proper training from those who have not Twist a policemans arm for instance and you still probably couldnt get him to say car or robber or gun or hit or saw long professional training has habituated him to vehicle alleged perpetrator firearm strike and observed This kind of Official Style diction is all around us Students tend to learn it as the epitome of adult discourse and to go too far in incorporating it into their own writing

                                My general advice regarding diction is to prefer plain to fancy unless the scholarly field expects a particular word Since appropriate choices vary within specific disciplines and sometimes between individual scholars my suggestion to students is to locate model

                                authors within their chosen fields and study those authors diction and other rhetorical strategies Your professors can help you find good models ask them to recommend respected scholars who write well There are always at least a few in every field

                                Parallelism

                                Parallelism is one of the most useful and flexible rhetorical techniques It refers to any structure which brings together parallel elements be these nouns adjectives verbs adverbs or larger structures Done well parallelism imparts grace and power to passage

                                The princes strength is also his weakness his self-reliance is also isolation

                                In Machiavellis world Sheldon Wolin observes moral ends have been replaced by ironies answers have been replaced by questions

                                The characters are all watching one another forming theories about one another listening contriving

                                One side sees Lincoln as a bold and shrewd leader sincerely committed to abolishing slavery the other sees him as an opportunistic politician concerned only to defend the union in any way possible

                                Problems with faulty parallelism are very common because many people know (or think they know) what they want to say and dont scrutinize what they actually write In the following examples the parallel elements in the revisions are emphasized

                                ORIGINAL REVISION

                                Someone acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                                Acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                                Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and the need to get rid of sentimental attachments

                                Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and ridding oneself of sentimental attachments

                                Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and he tries to avoid marriage

                                Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and tries to avoid marriage

                                One frequent source of trouble is nested listsmdashwhen one sublist occurs within another list The writer of this sentence lost track and thought the final comma signaled the last item in the main list

                                Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American

                                Association of Colleges and Universities

                                The trick is to recognize that this is actually a nested list and maintain parallelism within each list

                                Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers and in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                                The list is technically okay but its complexity makes it a bit hard to read One could rearrange the list to emphasize different elements and allow some pauses

                                Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and in targeted outlets like the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                                Note that among other changes the revision adds the word targeted which makes it easier to get the lists logic As ever revision is equal parts rewriting and rethinking

                                One other problem with parallelism is fairly common though this is a stylistic rather than a grammatical lapse Writers often repeat too much in the parallel elements detracting from parallelisms economical elegance

                                ORIGINAL REVISION

                                Socrates led a private life as opposed to a public life

                                Socrates led a private rather than a public life

                                Parallelism can be employed in many different ways One spin is inversion or chiasmus in which parallel elements are carefully reversed for emphasis A famous example comes from President John F Kennedys inaugural address (1961)

                                Ask not what your country can do for youmdashask what you can do for your country

                                Inversion often gains power by focusing attention on the ends of sentences where readers and listeners naturally pause Kennedys example shows this as does the next example from a 19th-century religious leader defending his honesty despite his change of religion

                                I have changed in many things in this I have not

                                By putting the prepositional phrase in this at the beginning of the second clause the speaker is able to end on that emphatic final not

                                Repetition

                                Repetition is one of the most useful tools available to writers Repetition allows a writer or speaker to hammer home an idea image or relationship to force the reader or listener to pay attention Two classic examples of the incredible power of repetition are Mark Antonys They are all honorable men speech in Shakespeares Julius Caesar (32) and Martin Luther King Jrs I have a dream speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963

                                But many writers especially young writers fear repetition apparently believing that repeating a word within a single sentence or short passage is bad style H W Fowler author of the old but still recommended Fowlers Modern English Usage (1st ed 1926) called this tendency elegant variation and observed There are few literary faults so widely prevalent

                                Heres an example of a student working hard to avoid repeating words within a sentence It doesnt work well the revision repeats words and reads more easily

                                ORIGINAL REVISION

                                The test group got an average of seven test questions correct the mean for the control category was thirteen valid responses

                                The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group averaged thirteen

                                The originals nervous avoidance of repetition (for instance using first group and then category) makes it a bit hard to follow The revision by contrast is easier to follow because it repeats words and syntactical structures Note that repetition allows the writer to cut some repeated elements and focus attention on the key information the contrast

                                Practiced writers will also employ all sorts of variations on this pattern of repetition

                                The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group thirteen

                                The test group averaged seven correct answers to the control groups thirteen

                                Another example of a writer afraid of repetition

                                ORIGINAL REVISION

                                First the North Koreans made an incursion almost all the way down the peninsula then Americans and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                                First the North Koreans drove almost all the way down the peninsula then American and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                                In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

                                Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

                                We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

                                Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

                                Using tenses consistently

                                Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

                                ORIGINAL REVISION

                                Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                                Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                                The historical present

                                One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

                                ORIGINAL REVISION

                                Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

                                Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

                                Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

                                But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

                                ORIGINAL REVISION

                                Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

                                This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

                                ORIGINAL REVISION

                                A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                                A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                                But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

                                Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

                                Alliteration

                                Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

                                Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

                                As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

                                The rule of three

                                This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

                                Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

                                doesnt try to soften his image

                                A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

                                The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

                                Humor

                                Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

                                First and second person

                                Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

                                You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

                                Questions and exclamations

                                Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

                                Placing emphasis

                                If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

                                These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

                                ORIGINAL REVISION

                                True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

                                True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

                                The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

                                There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

                                Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

                                Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

                                relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

                                from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

                                consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

                                Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

                                Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

                                Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

                                1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

                                Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

                                bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

                                statements and actions essential to understanding a character

                                bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

                                bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

                                bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

                                choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

                                bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

                                yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

                                intuits is of significance to understanding the text

                                (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

                                SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                                1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                                2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                                Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                                The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                                A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                                Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                                Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                                OR ndash

                                The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                                Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                                Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                                bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                                bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                                is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                                participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                                bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                                o Me Up At Does

                                Me up at does

                                out of the floor

                                quietly Stare

                                a poisoned mouse

                                still who alive

                                is asking What

                                have I done that

                                You wouldnt have

                                In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                                The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                                Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                                A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                                B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                                1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                                D Variety of sentence patterns

                                1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                                E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                                1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                                Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                                Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                                denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                                connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                                Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                                The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                                overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                                Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                                1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                                2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                                3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                                4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                                Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                                Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                                These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                                Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                                No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                                Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                                We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                                SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                                In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                                Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                                Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                                (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                                In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                                Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                                not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                                rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                                SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                setting plot details point of view diction

                                READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                impact shock anger awareness connections

                                contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                but rather hywoamninnad

                                ffiimonm

                                snaafislaapffabuaain

                                nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                Contrast and Comparision

                                or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                Emphasis and Repetition

                                or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                Time

                                oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                in futur subsequently

                                Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                ound e de whenever op

                                eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                at the right before between

                                in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                Words that Identify

                                that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                sense of urgency specific examples

                                LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                1

                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                1

                                AP English Languageand Composition

                                Synthesis Question

                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                2

                                Format

                                bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                position on topic addressed in sources

                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                3

                                Sources

                                bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                other visual

                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                4

                                Types of Sources

                                bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                5

                                Synthesize the Argument

                                bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                6

                                Distinctions

                                bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                Source B etchellip)

                                2

                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                7

                                Savvy Writers

                                bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                their argument

                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                8

                                Six-Part Approach

                                bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                9

                                Readhellip and Analyze

                                bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                10

                                Generalize

                                bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                11

                                Converse

                                bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                12

                                Finesse

                                bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                3

                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                13

                                Argue

                                bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                14

                                Conclusion

                                bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                How to improve your essay writing grade

                                1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                EXAMPLE

                                Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                Weaving To break away from the formula

                                1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                Top Ten Mistakes

                                Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                10 Apostrophes

                                Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                WRONG RIGHT

                                Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                WRONG RIGHT

                                The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                Moses leadership

                                Socrates wisdom

                                Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                8 Conjunction confusion

                                Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                WRONG RIGHT

                                Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                WRONG RIGHT

                                Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                6 Cannot

                                One word not two (not can not)

                                5 Affect and effect

                                Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                She affected the IRSs procedures

                                WRONG RIGHT

                                A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                4 Intents and purposes

                                Not intensive purposes

                                WRONG RIGHT

                                For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                3 Plural or singular

                                It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                WRONG RIGHT

                                The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                2 Principalprinciple

                                Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                WRONG RIGHT

                                Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                Heres how to remember the difference

                                principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                1 Itsits

                                Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                WRONG RIGHT

                                The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                WRONG RIGHT

                                Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                Why it matters

                                In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                hink

                                • AP Review coverdoc
                                • APMCPacketpdf
                                  • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                  • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                    • Questions on the whole passage
                                    • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                      • Analysis of a paragraph
                                      • Analysis of words or phrases
                                        • Grammatical constructions
                                        • Antecedents
                                        • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                          • Vocabulary in context
                                              • MCVocabdoc
                                                • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                • ToneStyle Words
                                                • Grammatical Construction
                                                • General Vocabulary
                                                  • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                  • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                  • ScorCalculpdf
                                                    • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                      • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                      • Rhetoricdoc
                                                      • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                      • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                      • promptpdf
                                                      • Annotating Textdoc
                                                      • Syntaxdoc
                                                        • SYNTAX
                                                          • Improving writing
                                                          • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                          • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                              • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                • Diction and Tone
                                                                  • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                  • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                  • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                  • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                  • Argumentationdoc
                                                                  • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                  • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                  • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                    • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                      • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                      • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                      • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                        • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                          • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                          • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                            • 2005Bpdf
                                                                            • 2006Bpdf

                                  The study of rhetoric stretches back to classical Greece Today the term is most commonly taken pejoratively meaning bombastic or exaggerated language But rhetoric also has a neutral meaningmdashrhetoric as the art or science of persuasion by means of stylistic and structural techniques The study of rhetoric is useful because it encourages us to think of writing (and speaking for that matter) as a series of strategic choices Every attempt to put words together includes choices about which words to use and how to arrange them In this sense all writers like it or not use rhetoric

                                  Even simplicity is a rhetorical and political choice George Orwell for instance was a master of the plain style and used it to devastating effect in his political journalism and novels like 1984 and

                                  Animal Farm (for more on the rhetoric of simplicity see Hugh Kenner ldquoThe Politics of the Plain Stylerdquo in Literary Journalism in the Twentieth Century ed Norman Sims [New York Oxford University Press 1990])

                                  Rhetoric is also useful because it encourages thinking about ones audience Different audiences require different rhetorical choices In the following section Ill list some of the most pertinent rhetorical techniques or tropes when writing for academic audiences

                                  Diction

                                  Perhaps the first rhetorical choice a writer makesmdashand all writers make this choice whether they realize it or notmdashis diction or what words to use Different words even if they ostensibly mean the same thing have different connotations as the poet W H Auden well understood And different audiences have different expectations about appropriate diction Academic writing requires a more formal diction than everyday talk or journalism and within academe writing in the natural sciences requires a more formal diction than writing in the humanities Im no great fan of formality in writing but on the other hand one does need to know and respect the conventions of academe and other professional forums for serious writing

                                  ORIGINAL REVISION

                                  The layers of dirt were not messed up at all The sedimentary levels were undisturbed

                                  In general the more specialized training a profession requires the more it develops its own jargon as a way of differentiating those who have acquired the proper training from those who have not Twist a policemans arm for instance and you still probably couldnt get him to say car or robber or gun or hit or saw long professional training has habituated him to vehicle alleged perpetrator firearm strike and observed This kind of Official Style diction is all around us Students tend to learn it as the epitome of adult discourse and to go too far in incorporating it into their own writing

                                  My general advice regarding diction is to prefer plain to fancy unless the scholarly field expects a particular word Since appropriate choices vary within specific disciplines and sometimes between individual scholars my suggestion to students is to locate model

                                  authors within their chosen fields and study those authors diction and other rhetorical strategies Your professors can help you find good models ask them to recommend respected scholars who write well There are always at least a few in every field

                                  Parallelism

                                  Parallelism is one of the most useful and flexible rhetorical techniques It refers to any structure which brings together parallel elements be these nouns adjectives verbs adverbs or larger structures Done well parallelism imparts grace and power to passage

                                  The princes strength is also his weakness his self-reliance is also isolation

                                  In Machiavellis world Sheldon Wolin observes moral ends have been replaced by ironies answers have been replaced by questions

                                  The characters are all watching one another forming theories about one another listening contriving

                                  One side sees Lincoln as a bold and shrewd leader sincerely committed to abolishing slavery the other sees him as an opportunistic politician concerned only to defend the union in any way possible

                                  Problems with faulty parallelism are very common because many people know (or think they know) what they want to say and dont scrutinize what they actually write In the following examples the parallel elements in the revisions are emphasized

                                  ORIGINAL REVISION

                                  Someone acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                                  Acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                                  Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and the need to get rid of sentimental attachments

                                  Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and ridding oneself of sentimental attachments

                                  Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and he tries to avoid marriage

                                  Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and tries to avoid marriage

                                  One frequent source of trouble is nested listsmdashwhen one sublist occurs within another list The writer of this sentence lost track and thought the final comma signaled the last item in the main list

                                  Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American

                                  Association of Colleges and Universities

                                  The trick is to recognize that this is actually a nested list and maintain parallelism within each list

                                  Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers and in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                                  The list is technically okay but its complexity makes it a bit hard to read One could rearrange the list to emphasize different elements and allow some pauses

                                  Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and in targeted outlets like the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                                  Note that among other changes the revision adds the word targeted which makes it easier to get the lists logic As ever revision is equal parts rewriting and rethinking

                                  One other problem with parallelism is fairly common though this is a stylistic rather than a grammatical lapse Writers often repeat too much in the parallel elements detracting from parallelisms economical elegance

                                  ORIGINAL REVISION

                                  Socrates led a private life as opposed to a public life

                                  Socrates led a private rather than a public life

                                  Parallelism can be employed in many different ways One spin is inversion or chiasmus in which parallel elements are carefully reversed for emphasis A famous example comes from President John F Kennedys inaugural address (1961)

                                  Ask not what your country can do for youmdashask what you can do for your country

                                  Inversion often gains power by focusing attention on the ends of sentences where readers and listeners naturally pause Kennedys example shows this as does the next example from a 19th-century religious leader defending his honesty despite his change of religion

                                  I have changed in many things in this I have not

                                  By putting the prepositional phrase in this at the beginning of the second clause the speaker is able to end on that emphatic final not

                                  Repetition

                                  Repetition is one of the most useful tools available to writers Repetition allows a writer or speaker to hammer home an idea image or relationship to force the reader or listener to pay attention Two classic examples of the incredible power of repetition are Mark Antonys They are all honorable men speech in Shakespeares Julius Caesar (32) and Martin Luther King Jrs I have a dream speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963

                                  But many writers especially young writers fear repetition apparently believing that repeating a word within a single sentence or short passage is bad style H W Fowler author of the old but still recommended Fowlers Modern English Usage (1st ed 1926) called this tendency elegant variation and observed There are few literary faults so widely prevalent

                                  Heres an example of a student working hard to avoid repeating words within a sentence It doesnt work well the revision repeats words and reads more easily

                                  ORIGINAL REVISION

                                  The test group got an average of seven test questions correct the mean for the control category was thirteen valid responses

                                  The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group averaged thirteen

                                  The originals nervous avoidance of repetition (for instance using first group and then category) makes it a bit hard to follow The revision by contrast is easier to follow because it repeats words and syntactical structures Note that repetition allows the writer to cut some repeated elements and focus attention on the key information the contrast

                                  Practiced writers will also employ all sorts of variations on this pattern of repetition

                                  The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group thirteen

                                  The test group averaged seven correct answers to the control groups thirteen

                                  Another example of a writer afraid of repetition

                                  ORIGINAL REVISION

                                  First the North Koreans made an incursion almost all the way down the peninsula then Americans and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                                  First the North Koreans drove almost all the way down the peninsula then American and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                                  In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

                                  Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

                                  We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

                                  Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

                                  Using tenses consistently

                                  Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

                                  ORIGINAL REVISION

                                  Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                                  Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                                  The historical present

                                  One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

                                  ORIGINAL REVISION

                                  Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

                                  Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

                                  Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

                                  But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

                                  ORIGINAL REVISION

                                  Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

                                  This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

                                  ORIGINAL REVISION

                                  A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                                  A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                                  But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

                                  Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

                                  Alliteration

                                  Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

                                  Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

                                  As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

                                  The rule of three

                                  This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

                                  Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

                                  doesnt try to soften his image

                                  A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

                                  The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

                                  Humor

                                  Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

                                  First and second person

                                  Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

                                  You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

                                  Questions and exclamations

                                  Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

                                  Placing emphasis

                                  If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

                                  These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

                                  ORIGINAL REVISION

                                  True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

                                  True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

                                  The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

                                  There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

                                  Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

                                  Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

                                  relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

                                  from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

                                  consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

                                  Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

                                  Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

                                  Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

                                  1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

                                  Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

                                  bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

                                  statements and actions essential to understanding a character

                                  bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

                                  bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

                                  bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

                                  choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

                                  bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

                                  yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

                                  intuits is of significance to understanding the text

                                  (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

                                  SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                                  1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                                  2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                                  Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                                  The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                                  A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                                  Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                                  Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                                  OR ndash

                                  The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                                  Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                                  Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                                  bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                                  bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                                  is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                                  participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                                  bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                                  o Me Up At Does

                                  Me up at does

                                  out of the floor

                                  quietly Stare

                                  a poisoned mouse

                                  still who alive

                                  is asking What

                                  have I done that

                                  You wouldnt have

                                  In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                                  The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                                  Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                                  A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                                  B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                                  1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                                  D Variety of sentence patterns

                                  1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                                  E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                                  1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                                  Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                                  Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                                  denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                                  connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                                  Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                                  The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                                  overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                                  Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                                  1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                                  2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                                  3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                                  4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                                  Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                                  Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                                  These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                                  Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                                  No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                                  Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                                  We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                                  SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                                  In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                                  Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                                  Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                                  (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                                  In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                                  Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                                  not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                                  rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                                  SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                  Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                  VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                  WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                  differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                  alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                  TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                  details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                  setting plot details point of view diction

                                  READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                  impact shock anger awareness connections

                                  contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                  Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                  Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                  but rather hywoamninnad

                                  ffiimonm

                                  snaafislaapffabuaain

                                  nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                  kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                  condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                  Contrast and Comparision

                                  or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                  Emphasis and Repetition

                                  or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                  ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                  Time

                                  oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                  rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                  in futur subsequently

                                  Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                  ound e de whenever op

                                  eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                  n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                  at the right before between

                                  in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                  R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                  in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                  TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                  Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                  words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                  ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                  1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                  Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                  2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                  Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                  Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                  additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                  Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                  Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                  Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                  Words that Identify

                                  that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                  that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                  but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                  Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                  Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                  Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                  Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                  CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                  seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                  Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                  EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                  Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                  Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                  SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                  in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                  previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                  finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                  to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                  Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                  Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                  EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                  Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                  Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                  core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                  Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                  Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                  As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                  Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                  other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                  Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                  Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                  Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                  In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                  Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                  (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                  AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                  from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                  drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                  principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                  the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                  15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                  known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                  of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                  choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                  itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                  APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                  bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                  guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                  authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                  sense of urgency specific examples

                                  LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                  bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                  bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                  ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                  ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                  Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                  State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                  THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                  Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                  1

                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                  1

                                  AP English Languageand Composition

                                  Synthesis Question

                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                  2

                                  Format

                                  bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                  and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                  position on topic addressed in sources

                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                  3

                                  Sources

                                  bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                  other visual

                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                  4

                                  Types of Sources

                                  bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                  5

                                  Synthesize the Argument

                                  bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                  bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                  bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                  bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                  6

                                  Distinctions

                                  bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                  Source B etchellip)

                                  2

                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                  7

                                  Savvy Writers

                                  bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                  their argument

                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                  8

                                  Six-Part Approach

                                  bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                  9

                                  Readhellip and Analyze

                                  bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                  makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                  assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                  10

                                  Generalize

                                  bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                  bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                  bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                  bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                  11

                                  Converse

                                  bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                  bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                  bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                  12

                                  Finesse

                                  bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                  bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                  bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                  3

                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                  13

                                  Argue

                                  bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                  takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                  14

                                  Conclusion

                                  bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                  position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                  THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                  WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                  1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                  You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                  3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                  EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                  How to improve your essay writing grade

                                  1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                  exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                  Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                  The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                  EXAMPLE

                                  Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                  If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                  1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                  concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                  Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                  Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                  Weaving To break away from the formula

                                  1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                  2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                  3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                  4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                  EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                  1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                  2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                  earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                  3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                  4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                  5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                  ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                  6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                  7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                  8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                  his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                  work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                  your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                  develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                  bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                  1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                  Top Ten Mistakes

                                  Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                  An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                  Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                  And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                  10 Apostrophes

                                  Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                  Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                  Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                  Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                  Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                  Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                  The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                  The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                  For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                  Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                  There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                  Moses leadership

                                  Socrates wisdom

                                  Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                  Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                  8 Conjunction confusion

                                  Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                  Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                  Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                  Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                  Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                  Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                  Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                  Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                  Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                  6 Cannot

                                  One word not two (not can not)

                                  5 Affect and effect

                                  Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                  She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                  For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                  She affected the IRSs procedures

                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                  A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                  A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                  4 Intents and purposes

                                  Not intensive purposes

                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                  For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                  For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                  3 Plural or singular

                                  It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                  The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                  The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                  Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                  2 Principalprinciple

                                  Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                  Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                  Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                  Heres how to remember the difference

                                  principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                  principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                  1 Itsits

                                  Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                  The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                  The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                  Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                  Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                  Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                  (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                  When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                  Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                  Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                  These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                  1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                  2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                  3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                  4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                  5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                  5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                  7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                  8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                  9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                  10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                  Why it matters

                                  In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                  What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                  Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                  hink

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                                    authors within their chosen fields and study those authors diction and other rhetorical strategies Your professors can help you find good models ask them to recommend respected scholars who write well There are always at least a few in every field

                                    Parallelism

                                    Parallelism is one of the most useful and flexible rhetorical techniques It refers to any structure which brings together parallel elements be these nouns adjectives verbs adverbs or larger structures Done well parallelism imparts grace and power to passage

                                    The princes strength is also his weakness his self-reliance is also isolation

                                    In Machiavellis world Sheldon Wolin observes moral ends have been replaced by ironies answers have been replaced by questions

                                    The characters are all watching one another forming theories about one another listening contriving

                                    One side sees Lincoln as a bold and shrewd leader sincerely committed to abolishing slavery the other sees him as an opportunistic politician concerned only to defend the union in any way possible

                                    Problems with faulty parallelism are very common because many people know (or think they know) what they want to say and dont scrutinize what they actually write In the following examples the parallel elements in the revisions are emphasized

                                    ORIGINAL REVISION

                                    Someone acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                                    Acquiring knowledge is similar to finding a new path in a dense forest

                                    Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and the need to get rid of sentimental attachments

                                    Machiavelli advocates relying on ones own strength leaving as little to chance as possible and ridding oneself of sentimental attachments

                                    Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and he tries to avoid marriage

                                    Touchstone satirizes courtly manners woos Audrey and tries to avoid marriage

                                    One frequent source of trouble is nested listsmdashwhen one sublist occurs within another list The writer of this sentence lost track and thought the final comma signaled the last item in the main list

                                    Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American

                                    Association of Colleges and Universities

                                    The trick is to recognize that this is actually a nested list and maintain parallelism within each list

                                    Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers and in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                                    The list is technically okay but its complexity makes it a bit hard to read One could rearrange the list to emphasize different elements and allow some pauses

                                    Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and in targeted outlets like the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                                    Note that among other changes the revision adds the word targeted which makes it easier to get the lists logic As ever revision is equal parts rewriting and rethinking

                                    One other problem with parallelism is fairly common though this is a stylistic rather than a grammatical lapse Writers often repeat too much in the parallel elements detracting from parallelisms economical elegance

                                    ORIGINAL REVISION

                                    Socrates led a private life as opposed to a public life

                                    Socrates led a private rather than a public life

                                    Parallelism can be employed in many different ways One spin is inversion or chiasmus in which parallel elements are carefully reversed for emphasis A famous example comes from President John F Kennedys inaugural address (1961)

                                    Ask not what your country can do for youmdashask what you can do for your country

                                    Inversion often gains power by focusing attention on the ends of sentences where readers and listeners naturally pause Kennedys example shows this as does the next example from a 19th-century religious leader defending his honesty despite his change of religion

                                    I have changed in many things in this I have not

                                    By putting the prepositional phrase in this at the beginning of the second clause the speaker is able to end on that emphatic final not

                                    Repetition

                                    Repetition is one of the most useful tools available to writers Repetition allows a writer or speaker to hammer home an idea image or relationship to force the reader or listener to pay attention Two classic examples of the incredible power of repetition are Mark Antonys They are all honorable men speech in Shakespeares Julius Caesar (32) and Martin Luther King Jrs I have a dream speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963

                                    But many writers especially young writers fear repetition apparently believing that repeating a word within a single sentence or short passage is bad style H W Fowler author of the old but still recommended Fowlers Modern English Usage (1st ed 1926) called this tendency elegant variation and observed There are few literary faults so widely prevalent

                                    Heres an example of a student working hard to avoid repeating words within a sentence It doesnt work well the revision repeats words and reads more easily

                                    ORIGINAL REVISION

                                    The test group got an average of seven test questions correct the mean for the control category was thirteen valid responses

                                    The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group averaged thirteen

                                    The originals nervous avoidance of repetition (for instance using first group and then category) makes it a bit hard to follow The revision by contrast is easier to follow because it repeats words and syntactical structures Note that repetition allows the writer to cut some repeated elements and focus attention on the key information the contrast

                                    Practiced writers will also employ all sorts of variations on this pattern of repetition

                                    The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group thirteen

                                    The test group averaged seven correct answers to the control groups thirteen

                                    Another example of a writer afraid of repetition

                                    ORIGINAL REVISION

                                    First the North Koreans made an incursion almost all the way down the peninsula then Americans and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                                    First the North Koreans drove almost all the way down the peninsula then American and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                                    In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

                                    Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

                                    We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

                                    Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

                                    Using tenses consistently

                                    Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

                                    ORIGINAL REVISION

                                    Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                                    Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                                    The historical present

                                    One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

                                    ORIGINAL REVISION

                                    Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

                                    Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

                                    Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

                                    But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

                                    ORIGINAL REVISION

                                    Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

                                    This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

                                    ORIGINAL REVISION

                                    A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                                    A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                                    But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

                                    Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

                                    Alliteration

                                    Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

                                    Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

                                    As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

                                    The rule of three

                                    This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

                                    Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

                                    doesnt try to soften his image

                                    A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

                                    The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

                                    Humor

                                    Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

                                    First and second person

                                    Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

                                    You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

                                    Questions and exclamations

                                    Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

                                    Placing emphasis

                                    If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

                                    These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

                                    ORIGINAL REVISION

                                    True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

                                    True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

                                    The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

                                    There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

                                    Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

                                    Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

                                    relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

                                    from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

                                    consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

                                    Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

                                    Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

                                    Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

                                    1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

                                    Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

                                    bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

                                    statements and actions essential to understanding a character

                                    bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

                                    bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

                                    bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

                                    choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

                                    bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

                                    yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

                                    intuits is of significance to understanding the text

                                    (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

                                    SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                                    1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                                    2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                                    Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                                    The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                                    A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                                    Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                                    Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                                    OR ndash

                                    The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                                    Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                                    Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                                    bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                                    bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                                    is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                                    participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                                    bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                                    o Me Up At Does

                                    Me up at does

                                    out of the floor

                                    quietly Stare

                                    a poisoned mouse

                                    still who alive

                                    is asking What

                                    have I done that

                                    You wouldnt have

                                    In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                                    The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                                    Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                                    A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                                    B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                                    1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                                    D Variety of sentence patterns

                                    1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                                    E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                                    1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                                    Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                                    Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                                    denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                                    connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                                    Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                                    The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                                    overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                                    Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                                    1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                                    2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                                    3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                                    4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                                    Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                                    Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                                    These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                                    Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                                    No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                                    Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                                    We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                                    SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                                    In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                                    Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                                    Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                                    (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                                    In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                                    Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                                    not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                                    rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                                    SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                    Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                    VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                    WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                    differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                    alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                    TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                    details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                    setting plot details point of view diction

                                    READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                    impact shock anger awareness connections

                                    contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                    Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                    Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                    but rather hywoamninnad

                                    ffiimonm

                                    snaafislaapffabuaain

                                    nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                    kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                    condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                    Contrast and Comparision

                                    or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                    Emphasis and Repetition

                                    or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                    ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                    Time

                                    oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                    rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                    in futur subsequently

                                    Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                    ound e de whenever op

                                    eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                    n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                    at the right before between

                                    in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                    R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                    in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                    TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                    Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                    words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                    ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                    1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                    Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                    2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                    Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                    Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                    additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                    Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                    Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                    Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                    Words that Identify

                                    that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                    that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                    but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                    Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                    Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                    Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                    Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                    CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                    seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                    Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                    EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                    Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                    Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                    SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                    in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                    previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                    finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                    to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                    Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                    Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                    EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                    Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                    Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                    core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                    Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                    Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                    As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                    Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                    other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                    Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                    Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                    Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                    In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                    Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                    (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                    AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                    from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                    drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                    principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                    the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                    15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                    known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                    of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                    choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                    itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                    APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                    bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                    guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                    authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                    sense of urgency specific examples

                                    LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                    bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                    bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                    ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                    ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                    Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                    State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                    THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                    Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                    1

                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                    1

                                    AP English Languageand Composition

                                    Synthesis Question

                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                    2

                                    Format

                                    bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                    and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                    position on topic addressed in sources

                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                    3

                                    Sources

                                    bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                    other visual

                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                    4

                                    Types of Sources

                                    bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                    5

                                    Synthesize the Argument

                                    bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                    bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                    bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                    bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                    6

                                    Distinctions

                                    bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                    Source B etchellip)

                                    2

                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                    7

                                    Savvy Writers

                                    bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                    their argument

                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                    8

                                    Six-Part Approach

                                    bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                    9

                                    Readhellip and Analyze

                                    bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                    makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                    assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                    10

                                    Generalize

                                    bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                    bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                    bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                    bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                    11

                                    Converse

                                    bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                    bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                    bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                    12

                                    Finesse

                                    bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                    bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                    bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                    3

                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                    13

                                    Argue

                                    bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                    takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                    14

                                    Conclusion

                                    bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                    position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                    THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                    WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                    1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                    You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                    3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                    EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                    How to improve your essay writing grade

                                    1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                    exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                    Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                    The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                    EXAMPLE

                                    Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                    If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                    1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                    concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                    Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                    Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                    Weaving To break away from the formula

                                    1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                    2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                    3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                    4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                    EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                    1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                    2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                    earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                    3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                    4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                    5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                    ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                    6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                    7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                    8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                    his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                    work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                    your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                    develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                    bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                    1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                    Top Ten Mistakes

                                    Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                    An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                    Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                    And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                    10 Apostrophes

                                    Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                    Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                    Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                    Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                    Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                    Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                    The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                    The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                    For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                    Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                    There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                    Moses leadership

                                    Socrates wisdom

                                    Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                    Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                    8 Conjunction confusion

                                    Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                    Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                    Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                    Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                    Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                    Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                    Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                    Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                    Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                    6 Cannot

                                    One word not two (not can not)

                                    5 Affect and effect

                                    Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                    She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                    For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                    She affected the IRSs procedures

                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                    A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                    A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                    4 Intents and purposes

                                    Not intensive purposes

                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                    For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                    For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                    3 Plural or singular

                                    It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                    The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                    The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                    Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                    2 Principalprinciple

                                    Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                    Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                    Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                    Heres how to remember the difference

                                    principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                    principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                    1 Itsits

                                    Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                    The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                    The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                    Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                    Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                    Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                    (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                    When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                    Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                    Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                    These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                    1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                    2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                    3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                    4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                    5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                    5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                    7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                    8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                    9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                    10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                    Why it matters

                                    In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                    What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                    Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                    hink

                                    • AP Review coverdoc
                                    • APMCPacketpdf
                                      • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                      • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                        • Questions on the whole passage
                                        • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                          • Analysis of a paragraph
                                          • Analysis of words or phrases
                                            • Grammatical constructions
                                            • Antecedents
                                            • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                              • Vocabulary in context
                                                  • MCVocabdoc
                                                    • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                    • ToneStyle Words
                                                    • Grammatical Construction
                                                    • General Vocabulary
                                                      • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                      • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                      • ScorCalculpdf
                                                        • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                          • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                          • Rhetoricdoc
                                                          • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                          • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                          • promptpdf
                                                          • Annotating Textdoc
                                                          • Syntaxdoc
                                                            • SYNTAX
                                                              • Improving writing
                                                              • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                              • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                  • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                    • Diction and Tone
                                                                      • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                      • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                      • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                      • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                      • Argumentationdoc
                                                                      • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                      • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                      • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                        • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                          • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                          • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                          • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                            • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                              • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                              • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                • 2006Bpdf

                                      Association of Colleges and Universities

                                      The trick is to recognize that this is actually a nested list and maintain parallelism within each list

                                      Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers and in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                                      The list is technically okay but its complexity makes it a bit hard to read One could rearrange the list to emphasize different elements and allow some pauses

                                      Open faculty positions are advertised in all regional city and community newspapers in national outlets such as the Higher Education Journal and in targeted outlets like the publications of the Hispanic American Association of Colleges and Universities and the African American Association of Colleges and Universities

                                      Note that among other changes the revision adds the word targeted which makes it easier to get the lists logic As ever revision is equal parts rewriting and rethinking

                                      One other problem with parallelism is fairly common though this is a stylistic rather than a grammatical lapse Writers often repeat too much in the parallel elements detracting from parallelisms economical elegance

                                      ORIGINAL REVISION

                                      Socrates led a private life as opposed to a public life

                                      Socrates led a private rather than a public life

                                      Parallelism can be employed in many different ways One spin is inversion or chiasmus in which parallel elements are carefully reversed for emphasis A famous example comes from President John F Kennedys inaugural address (1961)

                                      Ask not what your country can do for youmdashask what you can do for your country

                                      Inversion often gains power by focusing attention on the ends of sentences where readers and listeners naturally pause Kennedys example shows this as does the next example from a 19th-century religious leader defending his honesty despite his change of religion

                                      I have changed in many things in this I have not

                                      By putting the prepositional phrase in this at the beginning of the second clause the speaker is able to end on that emphatic final not

                                      Repetition

                                      Repetition is one of the most useful tools available to writers Repetition allows a writer or speaker to hammer home an idea image or relationship to force the reader or listener to pay attention Two classic examples of the incredible power of repetition are Mark Antonys They are all honorable men speech in Shakespeares Julius Caesar (32) and Martin Luther King Jrs I have a dream speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963

                                      But many writers especially young writers fear repetition apparently believing that repeating a word within a single sentence or short passage is bad style H W Fowler author of the old but still recommended Fowlers Modern English Usage (1st ed 1926) called this tendency elegant variation and observed There are few literary faults so widely prevalent

                                      Heres an example of a student working hard to avoid repeating words within a sentence It doesnt work well the revision repeats words and reads more easily

                                      ORIGINAL REVISION

                                      The test group got an average of seven test questions correct the mean for the control category was thirteen valid responses

                                      The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group averaged thirteen

                                      The originals nervous avoidance of repetition (for instance using first group and then category) makes it a bit hard to follow The revision by contrast is easier to follow because it repeats words and syntactical structures Note that repetition allows the writer to cut some repeated elements and focus attention on the key information the contrast

                                      Practiced writers will also employ all sorts of variations on this pattern of repetition

                                      The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group thirteen

                                      The test group averaged seven correct answers to the control groups thirteen

                                      Another example of a writer afraid of repetition

                                      ORIGINAL REVISION

                                      First the North Koreans made an incursion almost all the way down the peninsula then Americans and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                                      First the North Koreans drove almost all the way down the peninsula then American and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                                      In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

                                      Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

                                      We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

                                      Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

                                      Using tenses consistently

                                      Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

                                      ORIGINAL REVISION

                                      Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                                      Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                                      The historical present

                                      One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

                                      ORIGINAL REVISION

                                      Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

                                      Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

                                      Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

                                      But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

                                      ORIGINAL REVISION

                                      Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

                                      This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

                                      ORIGINAL REVISION

                                      A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                                      A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                                      But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

                                      Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

                                      Alliteration

                                      Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

                                      Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

                                      As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

                                      The rule of three

                                      This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

                                      Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

                                      doesnt try to soften his image

                                      A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

                                      The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

                                      Humor

                                      Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

                                      First and second person

                                      Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

                                      You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

                                      Questions and exclamations

                                      Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

                                      Placing emphasis

                                      If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

                                      These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

                                      ORIGINAL REVISION

                                      True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

                                      True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

                                      The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

                                      There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

                                      Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

                                      Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

                                      relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

                                      from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

                                      consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

                                      Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

                                      Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

                                      Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

                                      1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

                                      Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

                                      bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

                                      statements and actions essential to understanding a character

                                      bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

                                      bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

                                      bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

                                      choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

                                      bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

                                      yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

                                      intuits is of significance to understanding the text

                                      (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

                                      SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                                      1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                                      2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                                      Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                                      The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                                      A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                                      Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                                      Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                                      OR ndash

                                      The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                                      Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                                      Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                                      bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                                      bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                                      is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                                      participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                                      bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                                      o Me Up At Does

                                      Me up at does

                                      out of the floor

                                      quietly Stare

                                      a poisoned mouse

                                      still who alive

                                      is asking What

                                      have I done that

                                      You wouldnt have

                                      In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                                      The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                                      Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                                      A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                                      B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                                      1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                                      D Variety of sentence patterns

                                      1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                                      E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                                      1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                                      Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                                      Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                                      denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                                      connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                                      Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                                      The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                                      overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                                      Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                                      1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                                      2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                                      3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                                      4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                                      Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                                      Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                                      These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                                      Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                                      No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                                      Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                                      We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                                      SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                                      In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                                      Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                                      Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                                      (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                                      In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                                      Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                                      not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                                      rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                                      SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                      Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                      VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                      WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                      differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                      alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                      TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                      details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                      setting plot details point of view diction

                                      READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                      impact shock anger awareness connections

                                      contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                      Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                      Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                      but rather hywoamninnad

                                      ffiimonm

                                      snaafislaapffabuaain

                                      nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                      kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                      condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                      Contrast and Comparision

                                      or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                      Emphasis and Repetition

                                      or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                      ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                      Time

                                      oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                      rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                      in futur subsequently

                                      Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                      ound e de whenever op

                                      eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                      n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                      at the right before between

                                      in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                      R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                      in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                      TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                      Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                      words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                      ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                      1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                      Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                      2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                      Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                      Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                      additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                      Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                      Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                      Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                      Words that Identify

                                      that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                      that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                      but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                      Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                      Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                      Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                      Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                      CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                      seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                      Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                      EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                      Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                      Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                      SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                      in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                      previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                      finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                      to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                      Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                      Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                      EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                      Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                      Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                      core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                      Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                      Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                      As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                      Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                      other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                      Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                      Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                      Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                      In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                      Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                      (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                      AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                      from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                      drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                      principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                      the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                      15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                      known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                      of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                      choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                      itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                      APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                      bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                      guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                      authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                      sense of urgency specific examples

                                      LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                      bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                      bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                      ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                      ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                      Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                      State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                      THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                      Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                      1

                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                      1

                                      AP English Languageand Composition

                                      Synthesis Question

                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                      2

                                      Format

                                      bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                      and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                      position on topic addressed in sources

                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                      3

                                      Sources

                                      bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                      other visual

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                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                      4

                                      Types of Sources

                                      bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                      5

                                      Synthesize the Argument

                                      bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                      bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                      bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                      bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                      6

                                      Distinctions

                                      bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                      Source B etchellip)

                                      2

                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                      7

                                      Savvy Writers

                                      bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                      their argument

                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                      8

                                      Six-Part Approach

                                      bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                      9

                                      Readhellip and Analyze

                                      bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                      makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                      assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                      10

                                      Generalize

                                      bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                      bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                      bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                      bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                      11

                                      Converse

                                      bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                      bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                      bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                      12

                                      Finesse

                                      bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                      bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                      bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                      3

                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                      13

                                      Argue

                                      bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                      takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                      14

                                      Conclusion

                                      bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                      position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                      THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                      WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                      1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                      You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                      3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                      EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                      How to improve your essay writing grade

                                      1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                      exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                      Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                      The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                      EXAMPLE

                                      Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                      If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                      1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                      concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                      Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                      Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                      Weaving To break away from the formula

                                      1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                      2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                      3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                      4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                      EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                      1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                      2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                      earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                      3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                      4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                      5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                      ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                      6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                      7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                      8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                      his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                      work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                      your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                      develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                      bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                      1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                      Top Ten Mistakes

                                      Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                      An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                      Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                      And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                      10 Apostrophes

                                      Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                      Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                      Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                      Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                      Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                      Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                      The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                      The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                      For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                      Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                      There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                      Moses leadership

                                      Socrates wisdom

                                      Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                      Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                      8 Conjunction confusion

                                      Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                      Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                      Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                      Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                      Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                      Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                      Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                      Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                      Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                      6 Cannot

                                      One word not two (not can not)

                                      5 Affect and effect

                                      Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                      She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                      For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                      She affected the IRSs procedures

                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                      A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                      A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                      4 Intents and purposes

                                      Not intensive purposes

                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                      For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                      For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                      3 Plural or singular

                                      It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                      The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                      The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                      Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                      2 Principalprinciple

                                      Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                      Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                      Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                      Heres how to remember the difference

                                      principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                      principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                      1 Itsits

                                      Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                      The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                      The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                      Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                      Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                      Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                      (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                      When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                      Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                      Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                      These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                      1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                      2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                      3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                      4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                      5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                      5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                      7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                      8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                      9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                      10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                      Why it matters

                                      In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                      What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                      Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                      hink

                                      • AP Review coverdoc
                                      • APMCPacketpdf
                                        • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                        • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                          • Questions on the whole passage
                                          • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                            • Analysis of a paragraph
                                            • Analysis of words or phrases
                                              • Grammatical constructions
                                              • Antecedents
                                              • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                • Vocabulary in context
                                                    • MCVocabdoc
                                                      • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                      • ToneStyle Words
                                                      • Grammatical Construction
                                                      • General Vocabulary
                                                        • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
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                                                            • Rhetoricdoc
                                                            • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                            • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                            • promptpdf
                                                            • Annotating Textdoc
                                                            • Syntaxdoc
                                                              • SYNTAX
                                                                • Improving writing
                                                                • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                    • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                      • Diction and Tone
                                                                        • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                        • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                        • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                        • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                        • Argumentationdoc
                                                                        • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                        • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                        • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                          • APSynandGenpdf
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                                                                            • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                            • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                              • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                  • 2005Bpdf
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                                        Repetition

                                        Repetition is one of the most useful tools available to writers Repetition allows a writer or speaker to hammer home an idea image or relationship to force the reader or listener to pay attention Two classic examples of the incredible power of repetition are Mark Antonys They are all honorable men speech in Shakespeares Julius Caesar (32) and Martin Luther King Jrs I have a dream speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963

                                        But many writers especially young writers fear repetition apparently believing that repeating a word within a single sentence or short passage is bad style H W Fowler author of the old but still recommended Fowlers Modern English Usage (1st ed 1926) called this tendency elegant variation and observed There are few literary faults so widely prevalent

                                        Heres an example of a student working hard to avoid repeating words within a sentence It doesnt work well the revision repeats words and reads more easily

                                        ORIGINAL REVISION

                                        The test group got an average of seven test questions correct the mean for the control category was thirteen valid responses

                                        The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group averaged thirteen

                                        The originals nervous avoidance of repetition (for instance using first group and then category) makes it a bit hard to follow The revision by contrast is easier to follow because it repeats words and syntactical structures Note that repetition allows the writer to cut some repeated elements and focus attention on the key information the contrast

                                        Practiced writers will also employ all sorts of variations on this pattern of repetition

                                        The test group averaged seven correct answers the control group thirteen

                                        The test group averaged seven correct answers to the control groups thirteen

                                        Another example of a writer afraid of repetition

                                        ORIGINAL REVISION

                                        First the North Koreans made an incursion almost all the way down the peninsula then Americans and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                                        First the North Koreans drove almost all the way down the peninsula then American and South Korean forces drove back into the north

                                        In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

                                        Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

                                        We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

                                        Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

                                        Using tenses consistently

                                        Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

                                        ORIGINAL REVISION

                                        Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                                        Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                                        The historical present

                                        One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

                                        ORIGINAL REVISION

                                        Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

                                        Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

                                        Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

                                        But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

                                        ORIGINAL REVISION

                                        Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

                                        This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

                                        ORIGINAL REVISION

                                        A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                                        A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                                        But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

                                        Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

                                        Alliteration

                                        Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

                                        Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

                                        As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

                                        The rule of three

                                        This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

                                        Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

                                        doesnt try to soften his image

                                        A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

                                        The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

                                        Humor

                                        Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

                                        First and second person

                                        Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

                                        You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

                                        Questions and exclamations

                                        Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

                                        Placing emphasis

                                        If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

                                        These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

                                        ORIGINAL REVISION

                                        True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

                                        True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

                                        The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

                                        There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

                                        Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

                                        Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

                                        relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

                                        from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

                                        consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

                                        Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

                                        Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

                                        Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

                                        1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

                                        Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

                                        bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

                                        statements and actions essential to understanding a character

                                        bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

                                        bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

                                        bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

                                        choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

                                        bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

                                        yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

                                        intuits is of significance to understanding the text

                                        (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

                                        SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                                        1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                                        2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                                        Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                                        The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                                        A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                                        Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                                        Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                                        OR ndash

                                        The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                                        Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                                        Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                                        bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                                        bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                                        is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                                        participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                                        bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                                        o Me Up At Does

                                        Me up at does

                                        out of the floor

                                        quietly Stare

                                        a poisoned mouse

                                        still who alive

                                        is asking What

                                        have I done that

                                        You wouldnt have

                                        In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                                        The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                                        Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                                        A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                                        B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                                        1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                                        D Variety of sentence patterns

                                        1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                                        E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                                        1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                                        Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                                        Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                                        denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                                        connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                                        Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                                        The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                                        overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                                        Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                                        1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                                        2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                                        3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                                        4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                                        Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                                        Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                                        These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                                        Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                                        No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                                        Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                                        We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                                        SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                                        In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                                        Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                                        Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                                        (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                                        In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                                        Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                                        not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                                        rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                                        SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                        Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                        VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                        WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                        differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                        alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                        TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                        details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                        setting plot details point of view diction

                                        READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                        impact shock anger awareness connections

                                        contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                        Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                        Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                        but rather hywoamninnad

                                        ffiimonm

                                        snaafislaapffabuaain

                                        nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                        kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                        condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                        Contrast and Comparision

                                        or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                        Emphasis and Repetition

                                        or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                        ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                        Time

                                        oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                        rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                        in futur subsequently

                                        Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                        ound e de whenever op

                                        eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                        n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                        at the right before between

                                        in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                        R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                        in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                        TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                        Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                        words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                        ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                        1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                        Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                        2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                        Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                        Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                        additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                        Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                        Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                        Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                        Words that Identify

                                        that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                        that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                        but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                        Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                        Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                        Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                        Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                        CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                        seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                        Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                        EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                        Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                        Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                        SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                        in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                        previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                        finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                        to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                        Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                        Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                        EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                        Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                        Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                        core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                        Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                        Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                        As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                        Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                        other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                        Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                        Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                        Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                        In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                        Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                        (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                        AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                        from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                        drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                        principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                        the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                        15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                        known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                        of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                        choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                        itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                        APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                        bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                        guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                        authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                        sense of urgency specific examples

                                        LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                        bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                        bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                        ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                        ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                        Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                        State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                        THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                        Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                        1

                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                        1

                                        AP English Languageand Composition

                                        Synthesis Question

                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                        2

                                        Format

                                        bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                        and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                        position on topic addressed in sources

                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                        3

                                        Sources

                                        bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                        other visual

                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                        4

                                        Types of Sources

                                        bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                        5

                                        Synthesize the Argument

                                        bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                        bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                        bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                        bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                        6

                                        Distinctions

                                        bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                        Source B etchellip)

                                        2

                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                        7

                                        Savvy Writers

                                        bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                        their argument

                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                        8

                                        Six-Part Approach

                                        bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                        9

                                        Readhellip and Analyze

                                        bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                        makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                        assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                        10

                                        Generalize

                                        bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                        bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                        bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                        bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                        11

                                        Converse

                                        bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                        bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                        bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                        12

                                        Finesse

                                        bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                        bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                        bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                        3

                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                        13

                                        Argue

                                        bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                        takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                        14

                                        Conclusion

                                        bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                        position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                        THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                        WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                        1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                        You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                        3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                        EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                        How to improve your essay writing grade

                                        1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                        exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                        Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                        The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                        EXAMPLE

                                        Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                        If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                        1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                        concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                        Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                        Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                        Weaving To break away from the formula

                                        1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                        2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                        3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                        4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                        EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                        1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                        2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                        earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                        3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                        4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                        5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                        ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                        6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                        7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                        8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                        his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                        work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                        your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                        develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                        bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                        1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                        Top Ten Mistakes

                                        Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                        An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                        Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                        And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                        10 Apostrophes

                                        Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                        Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                        Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                        Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                        Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                        Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                        The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                        The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                        For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                        Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                        There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                        Moses leadership

                                        Socrates wisdom

                                        Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                        Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                        8 Conjunction confusion

                                        Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                        Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                        Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                        Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                        Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                        Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                        Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                        Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                        Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                        6 Cannot

                                        One word not two (not can not)

                                        5 Affect and effect

                                        Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                        She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                        For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                        She affected the IRSs procedures

                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                        A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                        A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                        4 Intents and purposes

                                        Not intensive purposes

                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                        For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                        For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                        3 Plural or singular

                                        It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                        The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                        The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                        Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                        2 Principalprinciple

                                        Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                        Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                        Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                        Heres how to remember the difference

                                        principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                        principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                        1 Itsits

                                        Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                        The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                        The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                        Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                        Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                        Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                        (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                        When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                        Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                        Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                        These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                        1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                        2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                        3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                        4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                        5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                        5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                        7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                        8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                        9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                        10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                        Why it matters

                                        In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                        What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                        Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                        hink

                                        • AP Review coverdoc
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                                            • Questions on the whole passage
                                            • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                              • Analysis of a paragraph
                                              • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                • Grammatical constructions
                                                • Antecedents
                                                • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                  • Vocabulary in context
                                                      • MCVocabdoc
                                                        • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
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                                                        • General Vocabulary
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                                                              • Syntaxdoc
                                                                • SYNTAX
                                                                  • Improving writing
                                                                  • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                  • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                      • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                        • Diction and Tone
                                                                          • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
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                                                                          • TRANSITIONSdoc
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                                                                          • Argumentationdoc
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                                                                          • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                            • APSynandGenpdf
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                                                                              • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                              • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                  • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                  • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                    • 2005Bpdf
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                                          In the revision the writer realizes that repeating the verb drove helps reinforce the passages symmetry

                                          Lets close with one of the classic instances of repetition from a speech by Winston Churchill after the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 France had fallen to Nazi Germany the United States was still neutral and Britain stood alone

                                          We shall go on to the end we shall fight in France we shall fight on the seas and oceans we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air we shall defend our island whatever the cost may be we shall fight on the beaches we shall fight on the landing grounds we shall fight in the fields and in the streets we shall fight in the hills we shall never surrender

                                          Churchills thundering we shall fights fall like hammerstrokes building to that emphatic defiant and irresistible we shall never surrender In 1940 Churchills rhetoric was perhaps the most important weapon deployed against Adolf Hitler

                                          Using tenses consistently

                                          Tense refers to the time (past present or future) in which actions occur If you start a passage in one tense dont change the tense without reason

                                          ORIGINAL REVISION

                                          Though Machiavelli has said that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                                          Though Machiavelli says that religion is vital to politics he dismisses Christianity as harmful

                                          The historical present

                                          One convention in academic writing that often gives students difficulty is what tense to use when discussing a text Ones first inclination is probably to use the past tense when discussing a book written in the past But thats not what is usually done Most textual analysis and commentary is written in the present tense a convention sometimes called the historical present

                                          ORIGINAL REVISION

                                          Machiavelli also said that Christianity made people slothful

                                          Machiavelli also says that Christianity makes people slothful

                                          Hamlet told Ophelia he never loved her Hamlet tells Ophelia he never loved her

                                          But just to complicate matters you dont always use the present tense in discussing a work When youre presenting facts on its composition you should use the past tense

                                          ORIGINAL REVISION

                                          Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

                                          This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

                                          ORIGINAL REVISION

                                          A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                                          A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                                          But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

                                          Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

                                          Alliteration

                                          Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

                                          Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

                                          As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

                                          The rule of three

                                          This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

                                          Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

                                          doesnt try to soften his image

                                          A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

                                          The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

                                          Humor

                                          Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

                                          First and second person

                                          Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

                                          You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

                                          Questions and exclamations

                                          Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

                                          Placing emphasis

                                          If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

                                          These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

                                          ORIGINAL REVISION

                                          True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

                                          True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

                                          The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

                                          There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

                                          Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

                                          Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

                                          relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

                                          from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

                                          consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

                                          Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

                                          Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

                                          Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

                                          1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

                                          Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

                                          bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

                                          statements and actions essential to understanding a character

                                          bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

                                          bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

                                          bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

                                          choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

                                          bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

                                          yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

                                          intuits is of significance to understanding the text

                                          (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

                                          SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                                          1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                                          2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                                          Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                                          The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                                          A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                                          Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                                          Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                                          OR ndash

                                          The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                                          Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                                          Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                                          bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                                          bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                                          is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                                          participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                                          bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                                          o Me Up At Does

                                          Me up at does

                                          out of the floor

                                          quietly Stare

                                          a poisoned mouse

                                          still who alive

                                          is asking What

                                          have I done that

                                          You wouldnt have

                                          In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                                          The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                                          Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                                          A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                                          B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                                          1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                                          D Variety of sentence patterns

                                          1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                                          E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                                          1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                                          Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                                          Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                                          denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                                          connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                                          Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                                          The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                                          overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                                          Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                                          1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                                          2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                                          3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                                          4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                                          Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                                          Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                                          These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                                          Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                                          No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                                          Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                                          We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                                          SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                                          In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                                          Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                                          Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                                          (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                                          In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                                          Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                                          not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                                          rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                                          SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                          Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                          VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                          WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                          differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                          alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                          TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                          details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                          setting plot details point of view diction

                                          READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                          impact shock anger awareness connections

                                          contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                          Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                          Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                          but rather hywoamninnad

                                          ffiimonm

                                          snaafislaapffabuaain

                                          nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                          kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                          condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                          Contrast and Comparision

                                          or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                          Emphasis and Repetition

                                          or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                          ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                          Time

                                          oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                          rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                          in futur subsequently

                                          Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                          ound e de whenever op

                                          eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                          n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                          at the right before between

                                          in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                          R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                          in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                          TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                          Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                          words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                          ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                          1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                          Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                          2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                          Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                          Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                          additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                          Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                          Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                          Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                          Words that Identify

                                          that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                          that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                          but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                          Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                          Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                          Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                          Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                          CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                          seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                          Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                          EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                          Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                          Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                          SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                          in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                          previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                          finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                          to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                          Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                          Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                          EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                          Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                          Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                          core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                          Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                          Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                          As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                          Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                          other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                          Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                          Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                          Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                          In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                          Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                          (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                          AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                          from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                          drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                          principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                          the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                          15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                          known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                          of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                          choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                          itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                          APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                          bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                          guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                          authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                          sense of urgency specific examples

                                          LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                          bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                          bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                          ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                          ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                          Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                          State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                          THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                          Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                          1

                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                          1

                                          AP English Languageand Composition

                                          Synthesis Question

                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                          2

                                          Format

                                          bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                          and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                          position on topic addressed in sources

                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                          3

                                          Sources

                                          bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                          other visual

                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                          4

                                          Types of Sources

                                          bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                          5

                                          Synthesize the Argument

                                          bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                          bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                          bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                          bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                          6

                                          Distinctions

                                          bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                          Source B etchellip)

                                          2

                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                          7

                                          Savvy Writers

                                          bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                          their argument

                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                          8

                                          Six-Part Approach

                                          bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                          9

                                          Readhellip and Analyze

                                          bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                          makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                          assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                          10

                                          Generalize

                                          bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                          bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                          bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                          bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                          11

                                          Converse

                                          bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                          bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                          bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                          12

                                          Finesse

                                          bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                          bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                          bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                          3

                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                          13

                                          Argue

                                          bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                          takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                          14

                                          Conclusion

                                          bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                          position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                          THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                          WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                          1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                          You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                          3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                          EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                          How to improve your essay writing grade

                                          1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                          exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                          Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                          The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                          EXAMPLE

                                          Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                          If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                          1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                          concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                          Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                          Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                          Weaving To break away from the formula

                                          1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                          2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                          3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                          4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                          EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                          1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                          2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                          earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                          3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                          4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                          5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                          ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                          6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                          7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                          8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                          his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                          work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                          your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                          develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                          bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                          1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                          Top Ten Mistakes

                                          Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                          An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                          Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                          And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                          10 Apostrophes

                                          Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                          Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                          Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                          Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                          Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                          Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                          The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                          The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                          For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                          Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                          There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                          Moses leadership

                                          Socrates wisdom

                                          Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                          Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                          8 Conjunction confusion

                                          Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                          Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                          Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                          Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                          Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                          Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                          Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                          Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                          Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                          6 Cannot

                                          One word not two (not can not)

                                          5 Affect and effect

                                          Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                          She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                          For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                          She affected the IRSs procedures

                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                          A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                          A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                          4 Intents and purposes

                                          Not intensive purposes

                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                          For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                          For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                          3 Plural or singular

                                          It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                          The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                          The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                          Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                          2 Principalprinciple

                                          Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                          Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                          Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                          Heres how to remember the difference

                                          principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                          principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                          1 Itsits

                                          Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                          The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                          The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                          Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                          Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                          Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                          (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                          When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                          Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                          Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                          These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                          1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                          2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                          3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                          4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                          5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                          5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                          7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                          8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                          9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                          10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                          Why it matters

                                          In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                          What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                          Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                          hink

                                          • AP Review coverdoc
                                          • APMCPacketpdf
                                            • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                            • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                              • Questions on the whole passage
                                              • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                  • Grammatical constructions
                                                  • Antecedents
                                                  • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                    • Vocabulary in context
                                                        • MCVocabdoc
                                                          • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                          • ToneStyle Words
                                                          • Grammatical Construction
                                                          • General Vocabulary
                                                            • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                            • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                            • ScorCalculpdf
                                                              • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                • promptpdf
                                                                • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                • Syntaxdoc
                                                                  • SYNTAX
                                                                    • Improving writing
                                                                    • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                    • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                        • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                          • Diction and Tone
                                                                            • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                            • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                            • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                            • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                            • Argumentationdoc
                                                                            • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                            • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                            • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                              • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                  • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                    • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                    • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                      • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                      • 2006Bpdf

                                            ORIGINAL REVISION

                                            Machiavelli writes The Prince in 1513 Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1513

                                            This also often holds if youre simply mentioning a work in passing as support for some other argument

                                            ORIGINAL REVISION

                                            A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulates a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                                            A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government

                                            But if you went on to discuss Lockes Second Treatise in some detail you might then switch to the historical present after this initial mention

                                            Efforts to safeguard individual liberty have a long history A century before the US Constitution was written John Locke articulated a vision of liberal government in his Second Treatise of Government In this famous work Locke locates the origins of government in the desire to safeguard individuals and their property against the violence and insecurity of the state of nature

                                            Alliteration

                                            Alliteration means beginning two or more stressed syllables with the same letter or sound

                                            Throughout the play we are made to witness the force of politics to shape and shatter lives

                                            As with any rhetorical techniques alliteration doesnt make an argument more intelligent Done well however it can please your reader and help make him more receptive to your argument Like a strong spice alliteration should be used sparingly

                                            The rule of three

                                            This is an old trick of the trade that doesnt get mentioned a lot nowadays (its called tricolon in classical rhetoric) but that crops up all the time in good writing The idea is simple lists of all kinds (of things qualities actions reasons examples etc) tend to come across most powerfully when they contain three items Of course that doesnt mean you should manipulate your material to make it fit Sometimes youll want to put two four or more items in a list But when youve got flexibility in what to say keep the rule of three in mind

                                            Coriolanus doesnt hide his contempt for the commoners he doesnt flatter them he

                                            doesnt try to soften his image

                                            A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

                                            The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

                                            Humor

                                            Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

                                            First and second person

                                            Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

                                            You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

                                            Questions and exclamations

                                            Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

                                            Placing emphasis

                                            If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

                                            These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

                                            ORIGINAL REVISION

                                            True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

                                            True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

                                            The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

                                            There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

                                            Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

                                            Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

                                            relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

                                            from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

                                            consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

                                            Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

                                            Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

                                            Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

                                            1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

                                            Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

                                            bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

                                            statements and actions essential to understanding a character

                                            bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

                                            bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

                                            bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

                                            choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

                                            bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

                                            yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

                                            intuits is of significance to understanding the text

                                            (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

                                            SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                                            1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                                            2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                                            Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                                            The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                                            A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                                            Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                                            Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                                            OR ndash

                                            The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                                            Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                                            Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                                            bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                                            bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                                            is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                                            participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                                            bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                                            o Me Up At Does

                                            Me up at does

                                            out of the floor

                                            quietly Stare

                                            a poisoned mouse

                                            still who alive

                                            is asking What

                                            have I done that

                                            You wouldnt have

                                            In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                                            The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                                            Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                                            A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                                            B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                                            1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                                            D Variety of sentence patterns

                                            1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                                            E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                                            1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                                            Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                                            Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                                            denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                                            connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                                            Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                                            The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                                            overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                                            Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                                            1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                                            2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                                            3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                                            4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                                            Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                                            Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                                            These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                                            Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                                            No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                                            Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                                            We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                                            SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                                            In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                                            Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                                            Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                                            (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                                            In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                                            Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                                            not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                                            rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                                            SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                            Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                            VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                            WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                            differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                            alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                            TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                            details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                            setting plot details point of view diction

                                            READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                            impact shock anger awareness connections

                                            contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                            Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                            Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                            but rather hywoamninnad

                                            ffiimonm

                                            snaafislaapffabuaain

                                            nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                            kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                            condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                            Contrast and Comparision

                                            or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                            Emphasis and Repetition

                                            or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                            ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                            Time

                                            oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                            rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                            in futur subsequently

                                            Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                            ound e de whenever op

                                            eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                            n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                            at the right before between

                                            in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                            R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                            in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                            TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                            Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                            words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                            ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                            1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                            Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                            2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                            Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                            Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                            additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                            Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                            Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                            Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                            Words that Identify

                                            that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                            that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                            but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                            Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                            Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                            Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                            Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                            CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                            seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                            Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                            EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                            Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                            Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                            SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                            in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                            previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                            finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                            to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                            Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                            Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                            EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                            Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                            Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                            core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                            Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                            Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                            As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                            Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                            other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                            Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                            Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                            Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                            In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                            Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                            (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                            AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                            from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                            drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                            principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                            the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                            15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                            known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                            of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                            choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                            itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                            APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                            bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                            guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                            authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                            sense of urgency specific examples

                                            LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                            bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                            bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                            ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                            ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                            Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                            State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                            THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                            Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                            1

                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                            1

                                            AP English Languageand Composition

                                            Synthesis Question

                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                            2

                                            Format

                                            bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                            and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                            position on topic addressed in sources

                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                            3

                                            Sources

                                            bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                            other visual

                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                            4

                                            Types of Sources

                                            bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                            5

                                            Synthesize the Argument

                                            bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                            bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                            bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                            bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                            6

                                            Distinctions

                                            bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                            Source B etchellip)

                                            2

                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                            7

                                            Savvy Writers

                                            bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                            their argument

                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                            8

                                            Six-Part Approach

                                            bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                            9

                                            Readhellip and Analyze

                                            bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                            makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                            assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                            10

                                            Generalize

                                            bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                            bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                            bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                            bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                            11

                                            Converse

                                            bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                            bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                            bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                            12

                                            Finesse

                                            bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                            bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                            bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                            3

                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                            13

                                            Argue

                                            bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                            takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                            14

                                            Conclusion

                                            bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                            position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                            THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                            WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                            1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                            You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                            3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                            EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                            How to improve your essay writing grade

                                            1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                            exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                            Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                            The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                            EXAMPLE

                                            Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                            If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                            1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                            concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                            Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                            Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                            Weaving To break away from the formula

                                            1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                            2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                            3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                            4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                            EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                            1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                            2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                            earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                            3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                            4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                            5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                            ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                            6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                            7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                            8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                            his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                            work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                            your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                            develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                            bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                            1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                            Top Ten Mistakes

                                            Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                            An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                            Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                            And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                            10 Apostrophes

                                            Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                            Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                            Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                            Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                            Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                            Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                            The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                            The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                            For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                            Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                            There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                            Moses leadership

                                            Socrates wisdom

                                            Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                            Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                            8 Conjunction confusion

                                            Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                            Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                            Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                            Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                            Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                            Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                            Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                            Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                            Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                            6 Cannot

                                            One word not two (not can not)

                                            5 Affect and effect

                                            Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                            She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                            For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                            She affected the IRSs procedures

                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                            A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                            A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                            4 Intents and purposes

                                            Not intensive purposes

                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                            For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                            For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                            3 Plural or singular

                                            It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                            The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                            The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                            Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                            2 Principalprinciple

                                            Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                            Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                            Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                            Heres how to remember the difference

                                            principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                            principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                            1 Itsits

                                            Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                            The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                            The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                            Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                            Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                            Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                            (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                            When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                            Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                            Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                            These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                            1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                            2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                            3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                            4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                            5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                            5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                            7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                            8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                            9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                            10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                            Why it matters

                                            In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                            What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                            Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                            hink

                                            • AP Review coverdoc
                                            • APMCPacketpdf
                                              • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                              • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                • Questions on the whole passage
                                                • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                  • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                  • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                    • Grammatical constructions
                                                    • Antecedents
                                                    • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                      • Vocabulary in context
                                                          • MCVocabdoc
                                                            • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                            • ToneStyle Words
                                                            • Grammatical Construction
                                                            • General Vocabulary
                                                              • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                              • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                              • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                  • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                  • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                  • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                  • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                  • promptpdf
                                                                  • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                  • Syntaxdoc
                                                                    • SYNTAX
                                                                      • Improving writing
                                                                      • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                      • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                          • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                            • Diction and Tone
                                                                              • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                              • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                              • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                              • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                              • Argumentationdoc
                                                                              • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                              • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                              • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                  • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                  • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                  • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                    • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                      • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                      • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                        • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                        • 2006Bpdf

                                              doesnt try to soften his image

                                              A generation ago most scholars believed that an overarching worldviewmdashconservative deeply Christian and essentially medieval in its commitment to order and hierarchymdashshaped the concerns and defined the intellectual limits of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists

                                              The third term is often slightly larger in its focus than the first two enfolding them to make a more general point

                                              Humor

                                              Humor and other flourishes like slang should be used sparingly Academic writing has room for wry observation and ironic observations but belly laughs and outright jokes dont tend to go over very well Something that seemed hilarious when you were writing it will likely seem foolish in the cold light of day

                                              First and second person

                                              Are the first and second person (I me my we us our you your) appropriate in academic writing As for the first person yes as long as it is used properly It occurs in much writing even in the hard sciences Scientists frequently speak of our research and our findings (though some teachers and editors agree with Mark Twains disdain for the editorial we) As for the first person singular one finds it even in the most serious scientific writing E O Wilson a prominent Harvard biologist notes his formal use of the first person but also the limits he observed very little emotion was expressed beyond the occasional I was interested in the problem of or It turned out to my surprise that Thus both sides of the debate over the propriety of the first person are in a sense right its okay to use I even in the most formal settings but not to venture into editorializing and emotion In less formal academic settings (including student writing by and large) and in some fields like literary studies its even acceptable to write with a certain amount of personal reaction and feeling The right amount of me-ness in ones writing will vary from field to field journal to journal teacher to teacher as you gain expertise in a particular field youll learn what the rules are

                                              You is rather a different kettle of fish It really doesnt belong in the most formal academic writing Directly addressing the reader changes the dynamic of the essay or paper In the hard sciences this would rarely be appropriate though in the humanities one finds the second person more often I happen to use it a fair amount (in part because one of my favorite old authors Machiavelli used it very cleverly) but others will see it differently

                                              Questions and exclamations

                                              Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

                                              Placing emphasis

                                              If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

                                              These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

                                              ORIGINAL REVISION

                                              True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

                                              True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

                                              The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

                                              There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

                                              Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

                                              Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

                                              relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

                                              from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

                                              consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

                                              Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

                                              Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

                                              Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

                                              1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

                                              Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

                                              bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

                                              statements and actions essential to understanding a character

                                              bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

                                              bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

                                              bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

                                              choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

                                              bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

                                              yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

                                              intuits is of significance to understanding the text

                                              (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

                                              SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                                              1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                                              2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                                              Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                                              The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                                              A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                                              Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                                              Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                                              OR ndash

                                              The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                                              Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                                              Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                                              bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                                              bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                                              is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                                              participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                                              bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                                              o Me Up At Does

                                              Me up at does

                                              out of the floor

                                              quietly Stare

                                              a poisoned mouse

                                              still who alive

                                              is asking What

                                              have I done that

                                              You wouldnt have

                                              In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                                              The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                                              Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                                              A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                                              B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                                              1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                                              D Variety of sentence patterns

                                              1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                                              E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                                              1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                                              Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                                              Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                                              denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                                              connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                                              Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                                              The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                                              overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                                              Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                                              1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                                              2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                                              3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                                              4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                                              Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                                              Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                                              These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                                              Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                                              No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                                              Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                                              We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                                              SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                                              In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                                              Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                                              Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                                              (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                                              In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                                              Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                                              not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                                              rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                                              SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                              Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                              VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                              WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                              differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                              alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                              TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                              details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                              setting plot details point of view diction

                                              READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                              impact shock anger awareness connections

                                              contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                              Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                              Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                              but rather hywoamninnad

                                              ffiimonm

                                              snaafislaapffabuaain

                                              nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                              kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                              condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                              Contrast and Comparision

                                              or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                              Emphasis and Repetition

                                              or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                              ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                              Time

                                              oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                              rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                              in futur subsequently

                                              Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                              ound e de whenever op

                                              eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                              n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                              at the right before between

                                              in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                              R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                              in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                              TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                              Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                              words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                              ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                              1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                              Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                              2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                              Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                              Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                              additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                              Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                              Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                              Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                              Words that Identify

                                              that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                              that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                              but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                              Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                              Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                              Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                              Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                              CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                              seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                              Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                              EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                              Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                              Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                              SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                              in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                              previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                              finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                              to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                              Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                              Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                              EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                              Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                              Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                              core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                              Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                              Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                              As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                              Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                              other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                              Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                              Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                              Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                              In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                              Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                              (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                              AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                              from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                              drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                              principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                              the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                              15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                              known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                              of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                              choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                              itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                              APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                              bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                              guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                              authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                              sense of urgency specific examples

                                              LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                              bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                              bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                              ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                              ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                              Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                              State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                              THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                              Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                              1

                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                              1

                                              AP English Languageand Composition

                                              Synthesis Question

                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                              2

                                              Format

                                              bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                              and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                              position on topic addressed in sources

                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                              3

                                              Sources

                                              bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                              other visual

                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                              4

                                              Types of Sources

                                              bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                              5

                                              Synthesize the Argument

                                              bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                              bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                              bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                              bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                              6

                                              Distinctions

                                              bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                              Source B etchellip)

                                              2

                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                              7

                                              Savvy Writers

                                              bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                              their argument

                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                              8

                                              Six-Part Approach

                                              bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                              9

                                              Readhellip and Analyze

                                              bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                              makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                              assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                              10

                                              Generalize

                                              bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                              bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                              bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                              bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                              11

                                              Converse

                                              bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                              bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                              bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                              12

                                              Finesse

                                              bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                              bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                              bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                              3

                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                              13

                                              Argue

                                              bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                              takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                              14

                                              Conclusion

                                              bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                              position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                              THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                              WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                              1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                              You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                              3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                              EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                              How to improve your essay writing grade

                                              1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                              exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                              Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                              The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                              EXAMPLE

                                              Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                              If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                              1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                              concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                              Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                              Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                              Weaving To break away from the formula

                                              1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                              2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                              3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                              4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                              EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                              1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                              2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                              earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                              3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                              4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                              5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                              ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                              6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                              7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                              8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                              his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                              work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                              your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                              develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                              bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                              1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                              Top Ten Mistakes

                                              Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                              An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                              Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                              And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                              10 Apostrophes

                                              Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                              Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                              Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                              Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                              Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                              Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                              The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                              The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                              For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                              Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                              There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                              Moses leadership

                                              Socrates wisdom

                                              Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                              Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                              8 Conjunction confusion

                                              Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                              Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                              Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                              Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                              Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                              Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                              Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                              Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                              Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                              6 Cannot

                                              One word not two (not can not)

                                              5 Affect and effect

                                              Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                              She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                              For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                              She affected the IRSs procedures

                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                              A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                              A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                              4 Intents and purposes

                                              Not intensive purposes

                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                              For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                              For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                              3 Plural or singular

                                              It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                              The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                              The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                              Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                              2 Principalprinciple

                                              Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                              Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                              Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                              Heres how to remember the difference

                                              principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                              principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                              1 Itsits

                                              Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                              The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                              The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                              Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                              Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                              Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                              (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                              When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                              Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                              Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                              These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                              1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                              2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                              3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                              4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                              5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                              5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                              7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                              8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                              9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                              10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                              Why it matters

                                              In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                              What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                              Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                              hink

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                                                  • Questions on the whole passage
                                                  • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                    • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                    • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                      • Grammatical constructions
                                                      • Antecedents
                                                      • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                        • Vocabulary in context
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                                                              • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                              • ToneStyle Words
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                                                              • General Vocabulary
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                                                                      • SYNTAX
                                                                        • Improving writing
                                                                        • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                        • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                            • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                              • Diction and Tone
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                                                Questions and exclamations

                                                Direct questions work well in academic writing but exclamations dont See the discussion in Punctuation for further thoughts

                                                Placing emphasis

                                                If you want to summon up emphasis a far better technique than exclamation marks is to take advantage of the natural rhythm of English sentences Heres an important rule good writers know explicitly or implicitly he end of a sentence packs the most wallop The most common sentence patter puts familiar information at the beginning of sentences and new information at the ends of sentences Thus each sentence can be seen to be a kind of little bridge to what has already been presented the sentence starts out on familiar ground and then takes a step forward Good writing consists of linking these many little steps into a sustained argumentative journey (of course with a few bold exceptions every so often)

                                                These two paragraphs are identical except for their final sentences

                                                ORIGINAL REVISION

                                                True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way Freedom is what capitalists believe in in other words

                                                True capitalists distrust governments and dont think they make good arbiters of morality They believe that individuals are best qualified to manage their own lives and pursue happiness in their own way In other words capitalists believe in freedom

                                                The original throws away its energy in that last sentence because freedom comes right at the beginning of the sentence The revision saves its new mention for the sentences natural emphasis point its end The principle is of fundamental importance start sentences with familiar material end with new

                                                There is much more to be said about rhetoric If this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity I urge you to study the topic further to read lots of good published writing (I recommend for instance William Safires scintillating style in his op-ed columns in the New York Times) and to experiment with your own prose At its best rhetoric is not phony but a worthy art that recognizes the beauty and power of words Writers who know how to use rhetoric understand that audiences want to be enchanted at least as much as they want to be taught Rhetoric can help you persuade Take advantage of it

                                                Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

                                                Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

                                                relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

                                                from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

                                                consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

                                                Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

                                                Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

                                                Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

                                                1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

                                                Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

                                                bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

                                                statements and actions essential to understanding a character

                                                bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

                                                bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

                                                bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

                                                choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

                                                bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

                                                yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

                                                intuits is of significance to understanding the text

                                                (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

                                                SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                                                1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                                                2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                                                Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                                                The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                                                A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                                                Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                                                Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                                                OR ndash

                                                The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                                                Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                                                Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                                                bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                                                bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                                                is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                                                participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                                                bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                                                o Me Up At Does

                                                Me up at does

                                                out of the floor

                                                quietly Stare

                                                a poisoned mouse

                                                still who alive

                                                is asking What

                                                have I done that

                                                You wouldnt have

                                                In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                                                The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                                                Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                                                A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                                                B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                                                1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                                                D Variety of sentence patterns

                                                1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                                                E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                                                1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                                                Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                                                Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                                                denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                                                connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                                                Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                                                The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                                                overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                                                Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                                                1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                                                2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                                                3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                                                4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                                                Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                                                Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                                                These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                                                Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                                                No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                                                Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                                                We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                                                SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                                                In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                                                Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                                                Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                                                (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                                                In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                                                Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                                                not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                                                rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                                                SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                                Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                                VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                                WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                                differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                                alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                                TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                                details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                                setting plot details point of view diction

                                                READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                                impact shock anger awareness connections

                                                contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                                Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                                Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                                but rather hywoamninnad

                                                ffiimonm

                                                snaafislaapffabuaain

                                                nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                                kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                                condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                                Contrast and Comparision

                                                or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                                Emphasis and Repetition

                                                or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                                ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                                Time

                                                oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                                rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                                in futur subsequently

                                                Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                                ound e de whenever op

                                                eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                                n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                                at the right before between

                                                in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                                R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                                in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                                TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                                Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                                words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                                ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                                1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                                Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                                2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                                Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                                Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                                additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                                Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                                Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                                Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                                Words that Identify

                                                that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                                that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                                but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                                Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                                Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                                Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                                Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                                CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                                seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                                Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                                EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                                Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                                Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                                SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                                in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                                previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                                finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                                to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                                Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                sense of urgency specific examples

                                                LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                1

                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                1

                                                AP English Languageand Composition

                                                Synthesis Question

                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                2

                                                Format

                                                bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                position on topic addressed in sources

                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                3

                                                Sources

                                                bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                other visual

                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                4

                                                Types of Sources

                                                bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                5

                                                Synthesize the Argument

                                                bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                6

                                                Distinctions

                                                bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                Source B etchellip)

                                                2

                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                7

                                                Savvy Writers

                                                bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                their argument

                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                8

                                                Six-Part Approach

                                                bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                9

                                                Readhellip and Analyze

                                                bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                10

                                                Generalize

                                                bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                11

                                                Converse

                                                bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                12

                                                Finesse

                                                bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                3

                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                13

                                                Argue

                                                bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                14

                                                Conclusion

                                                bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                EXAMPLE

                                                Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                Top Ten Mistakes

                                                Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                10 Apostrophes

                                                Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                Moses leadership

                                                Socrates wisdom

                                                Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                8 Conjunction confusion

                                                Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                6 Cannot

                                                One word not two (not can not)

                                                5 Affect and effect

                                                Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                4 Intents and purposes

                                                Not intensive purposes

                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                3 Plural or singular

                                                It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                2 Principalprinciple

                                                Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                Heres how to remember the difference

                                                principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                1 Itsits

                                                Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                Why it matters

                                                In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                hink

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                                                                        • SYNTAX
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                                                  Rhetorical Strategies Argument All texts contain an argument whether implicit or explicit Finding it will depend upon identification of the authorrsquos motive and his audience Explicit argument an obvious argument Implicit argument a less obvious often hidden argument Themes Linking devices that hold a text together structurally eg the battle between good and evil Repetition of certain words Why with all the words at his or her disposal does a writer choose to repeat particular words Counterpoints contrasting ideas such as blackwhite darknesslight goodbad Imagery Strong visual impressions created through words frequently using color Introduction and conclusion framing strategies Narrator Usually first or third person Is the narrator the same as the author Style tone voice Gut reactions are useful here Examine your own response What is it that makes you respond as you do Are you the authorrsquos intended audience If not who is

                                                  Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

                                                  relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

                                                  from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

                                                  consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

                                                  Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

                                                  Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

                                                  Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

                                                  1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

                                                  Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

                                                  bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

                                                  statements and actions essential to understanding a character

                                                  bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

                                                  bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

                                                  bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

                                                  choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

                                                  bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

                                                  yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

                                                  intuits is of significance to understanding the text

                                                  (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

                                                  SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                                                  1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                                                  2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                                                  Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                                                  The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                                                  A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                                                  Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                                                  Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                                                  OR ndash

                                                  The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                                                  Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                                                  Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                                                  bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                                                  bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                                                  is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                                                  participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                                                  bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                                                  o Me Up At Does

                                                  Me up at does

                                                  out of the floor

                                                  quietly Stare

                                                  a poisoned mouse

                                                  still who alive

                                                  is asking What

                                                  have I done that

                                                  You wouldnt have

                                                  In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                                                  The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                                                  Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                                                  A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                                                  B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                                                  1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                                                  D Variety of sentence patterns

                                                  1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                                                  E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                                                  1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                                                  Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                                                  Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                                                  denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                                                  connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                                                  Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                                                  The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                                                  overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                                                  Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                                                  1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                                                  2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                                                  3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                                                  4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                                                  Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                                                  Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                                                  These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                                                  Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                                                  No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                                                  Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                                                  We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                                                  SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                                                  In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                                                  Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                                                  Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                                                  (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                                                  In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                                                  Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                                                  not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                                                  rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                                                  SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                                  Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                                  VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                                  WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                                  differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                                  alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                                  TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                                  details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                                  setting plot details point of view diction

                                                  READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                                  impact shock anger awareness connections

                                                  contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                                  Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                                  Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                                  but rather hywoamninnad

                                                  ffiimonm

                                                  snaafislaapffabuaain

                                                  nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                                  kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                                  condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                                  Contrast and Comparision

                                                  or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                                  Emphasis and Repetition

                                                  or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                                  ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                                  Time

                                                  oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                                  rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                                  in futur subsequently

                                                  Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                                  ound e de whenever op

                                                  eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                                  n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                                  at the right before between

                                                  in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                                  R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                                  in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                                  TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                                  Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                                  words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                                  ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                                  1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                                  Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                                  2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                                  Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                                  Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                                  additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                                  Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                                  Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                                  Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                                  Words that Identify

                                                  that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                                  that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                                  but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                                  Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                                  Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                                  Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                                  Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                                  CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                                  seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                                  Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                                  EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                                  Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                                  Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                                  SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                                  in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                                  previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                                  finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                                  to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                                  Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                  Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                  EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                  Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                  Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                  core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                  Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                  Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                  As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                  Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                  other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                  Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                  Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                  Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                  In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                  Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                  (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                  AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                  from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                  drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                  principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                  the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                  15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                  known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                  of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                  choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                  itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                  APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                  bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                  guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                  authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                  sense of urgency specific examples

                                                  LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                  bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                  bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                  ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                  ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                  Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                  State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                  THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                  Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                  1

                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                  1

                                                  AP English Languageand Composition

                                                  Synthesis Question

                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                  2

                                                  Format

                                                  bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                  and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                  position on topic addressed in sources

                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                  3

                                                  Sources

                                                  bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                  other visual

                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                  4

                                                  Types of Sources

                                                  bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                  5

                                                  Synthesize the Argument

                                                  bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                  bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                  bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                  bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                  6

                                                  Distinctions

                                                  bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                  Source B etchellip)

                                                  2

                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                  7

                                                  Savvy Writers

                                                  bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                  their argument

                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                  8

                                                  Six-Part Approach

                                                  bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                  9

                                                  Readhellip and Analyze

                                                  bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                  makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                  assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                  10

                                                  Generalize

                                                  bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                  bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                  bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                  bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                  11

                                                  Converse

                                                  bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                  bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                  bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                  12

                                                  Finesse

                                                  bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                  bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                  bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                  3

                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                  13

                                                  Argue

                                                  bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                  takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                  14

                                                  Conclusion

                                                  bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                  position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                  THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                  WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                  1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                  You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                  3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                  EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                  How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                  1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                  exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                  Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                  The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                  EXAMPLE

                                                  Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                  If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                  1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                  concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                  Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                  Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                  Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                  1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                  2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                  3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                  4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                  EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                  1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                  2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                  earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                  3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                  4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                  5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                  ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                  6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                  7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                  8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                  his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                  work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                  your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                  develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                  bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                  1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                  Top Ten Mistakes

                                                  Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                  An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                  Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                  And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                  10 Apostrophes

                                                  Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                  Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                  Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                  Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                  Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                  Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                  The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                  The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                  For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                  Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                  There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                  Moses leadership

                                                  Socrates wisdom

                                                  Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                  Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                  8 Conjunction confusion

                                                  Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                  Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                  Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                  Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                  Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                  Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                  Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                  Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                  Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                  6 Cannot

                                                  One word not two (not can not)

                                                  5 Affect and effect

                                                  Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                  She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                  For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                  She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                  A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                  A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                  4 Intents and purposes

                                                  Not intensive purposes

                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                  For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                  For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                  3 Plural or singular

                                                  It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                  The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                  The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                  Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                  2 Principalprinciple

                                                  Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                  Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                  Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                  Heres how to remember the difference

                                                  principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                  principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                  1 Itsits

                                                  Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                  The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                  The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                  Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                  Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                  Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                  (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                  When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                  Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                  Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                  These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                  1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                  2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                  3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                  4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                  5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                  5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                  7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                  8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                  9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                  10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                  Why it matters

                                                  In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                  What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                  Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                  hink

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                                                                          • SYNTAX
                                                                            • Improving writing
                                                                            • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
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                                                    Rhetorical Modes Each mode suggests questions that can spark ideas by opening up different approaches diams Description How does the subject look sound smell taste and feel diams Narration How did the subject happen diams Example How can the subject be illustrated diams Division or analysis What are the subjectrsquos parts and what is their

                                                    relationship or significance diams Classification What groups can the subject be sorted into diams Process Analysis How does the subject work diams Comparison and Constrast How is the subject similar to or different

                                                    from something else diams Definition What are the subjects characteristics and boundaries diams Cause-and-Effect analysis Why did the subject happen What were its

                                                    consequences diams Argument and Persuasion Why do I believe as I do about the subject

                                                    Why do others have different opinions How can I convince others to accept my opinion or believe as I do

                                                    Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

                                                    Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

                                                    1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

                                                    Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

                                                    bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

                                                    statements and actions essential to understanding a character

                                                    bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

                                                    bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

                                                    bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

                                                    choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

                                                    bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

                                                    yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

                                                    intuits is of significance to understanding the text

                                                    (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

                                                    SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                                                    1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                                                    2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                                                    Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                                                    The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                                                    A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                                                    Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                                                    Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                                                    OR ndash

                                                    The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                                                    Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                                                    Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                                                    bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                                                    bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                                                    is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                                                    participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                                                    bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                                                    o Me Up At Does

                                                    Me up at does

                                                    out of the floor

                                                    quietly Stare

                                                    a poisoned mouse

                                                    still who alive

                                                    is asking What

                                                    have I done that

                                                    You wouldnt have

                                                    In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                                                    The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                                                    Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                                                    A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                                                    B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                                                    1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                                                    D Variety of sentence patterns

                                                    1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                                                    E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                                                    1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                                                    Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                                                    Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                                                    denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                                                    connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                                                    Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                                                    The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                                                    overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                                                    Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                                                    1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                                                    2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                                                    3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                                                    4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                                                    Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                                                    Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                                                    These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                                                    Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                                                    No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                                                    Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                                                    We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                                                    SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                                                    In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                                                    Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                                                    Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                                                    (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                                                    In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                                                    Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                                                    not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                                                    rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                                                    SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                                    Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                                    VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                                    WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                                    differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                                    alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                                    TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                                    details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                                    setting plot details point of view diction

                                                    READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                                    impact shock anger awareness connections

                                                    contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                                    Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                                    Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                                    but rather hywoamninnad

                                                    ffiimonm

                                                    snaafislaapffabuaain

                                                    nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                                    kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                                    condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                                    Contrast and Comparision

                                                    or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                                    Emphasis and Repetition

                                                    or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                                    ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                                    Time

                                                    oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                                    rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                                    in futur subsequently

                                                    Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                                    ound e de whenever op

                                                    eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                                    n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                                    at the right before between

                                                    in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                                    R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                                    in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                                    TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                                    Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                                    words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                                    ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                                    1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                                    Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                                    2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                                    Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                                    Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                                    additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                                    Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                                    Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                                    Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                                    Words that Identify

                                                    that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                                    that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                                    but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                                    Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                                    Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                                    Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                                    Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                                    CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                                    seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                                    Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                                    EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                                    Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                                    Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                                    SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                                    in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                                    previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                                    finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                                    to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                                    Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                    Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                    EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                    Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                    Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                    core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                    Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                    Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                    As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                    Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                    other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                    Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                    Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                    Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                    In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                    Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                    (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                    AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                    from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                    drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                    principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                    the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                    15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                    known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                    of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                    choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                    itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                    APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                    bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                    guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                    authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                    sense of urgency specific examples

                                                    LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                    bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                    bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                    ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                    ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                    Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                    State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                    THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                    Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                    1

                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                    1

                                                    AP English Languageand Composition

                                                    Synthesis Question

                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                    2

                                                    Format

                                                    bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                    and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                    position on topic addressed in sources

                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                    3

                                                    Sources

                                                    bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                    other visual

                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                    4

                                                    Types of Sources

                                                    bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                    5

                                                    Synthesize the Argument

                                                    bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                    bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                    bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                    bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                    6

                                                    Distinctions

                                                    bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                    Source B etchellip)

                                                    2

                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                    7

                                                    Savvy Writers

                                                    bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                    their argument

                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                    8

                                                    Six-Part Approach

                                                    bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                    9

                                                    Readhellip and Analyze

                                                    bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                    makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                    assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                    10

                                                    Generalize

                                                    bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                    bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                    bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                    bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                    11

                                                    Converse

                                                    bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                    bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                    bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                    12

                                                    Finesse

                                                    bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                    bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                    bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                    3

                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                    13

                                                    Argue

                                                    bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                    takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                    14

                                                    Conclusion

                                                    bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                    position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                    THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                    WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                    1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                    You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                    3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                    EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                    How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                    1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                    exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                    Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                    The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                    EXAMPLE

                                                    Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                    If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                    1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                    concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                    Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                    Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                    Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                    1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                    2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                    3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                    4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                    EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                    1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                    2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                    earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                    3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                    4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                    5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                    ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                    6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                    7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                    8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                    his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                    work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                    your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                    develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                    bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                    1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                    Top Ten Mistakes

                                                    Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                    An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                    Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                    And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                    10 Apostrophes

                                                    Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                    Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                    Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                    Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                    Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                    Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                    The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                    The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                    For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                    Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                    There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                    Moses leadership

                                                    Socrates wisdom

                                                    Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                    Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                    8 Conjunction confusion

                                                    Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                    Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                    Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                    Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                    Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                    Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                    Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                    Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                    Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                    6 Cannot

                                                    One word not two (not can not)

                                                    5 Affect and effect

                                                    Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                    She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                    For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                    She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                    A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                    A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                    4 Intents and purposes

                                                    Not intensive purposes

                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                    For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                    For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                    3 Plural or singular

                                                    It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                    The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                    The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                    Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                    2 Principalprinciple

                                                    Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                    Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                    Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                    Heres how to remember the difference

                                                    principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                    principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                    1 Itsits

                                                    Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                    The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                    The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                    Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                    Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                    Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                    (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                    When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                    Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                    Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                    These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                    1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                    2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                    3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                    4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                    5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                    5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                    7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                    8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                    9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                    10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                    Why it matters

                                                    In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                    What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                    Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                    hink

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                                                                              • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
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                                                      Great BooksAP Language Annotation Ms Walz

                                                      Annotating Text Annotate v anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoted anmiddotnomiddottatmiddoting anmiddotnomiddottates v tr

                                                      1 To furnish (a literary work) with critical commentary or explanatory notes 2 add explanatory notes to or supply with critical comments The scholar annotated the early edition of a famous novel 3 provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases He annotated on what his teacher had writtenrdquo n an-no-ta-tion

                                                      Possible elements to ldquoannotaterdquo in a text

                                                      bull figures of speech bull tone bull shifts in tone bull shifts in thought bull conflicts in scenes bull goals and motivations bull describing the import of

                                                      statements and actions essential to understanding a character

                                                      bull discriminating between stated (or assumed) intentions and concealed intentions

                                                      bull identifying and explaining instances of irony

                                                      bull rhetorical devicesstrategies bull authorrsquos use of diction (word

                                                      choice) bull vocabulary (unfamiliar words) bull dialect

                                                      bull connections to current events bull connections to your own life bull connections to other things

                                                      yoursquove read bull symbols bull recurring images bull color imagery bull thesis (non-fiction) bull main ideas bull provocative statements bull character descriptions bull points of contention bull multiple meanings bull voice bull syntax bull effective use of language bull anything else that the reader

                                                      intuits is of significance to understanding the text

                                                      (Source Warren J Bowes Chippewa Falls Senior High School Chippewa Falls WI)

                                                      SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                                                      1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                                                      2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                                                      Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                                                      The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                                                      A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                                                      Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                                                      Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                                                      OR ndash

                                                      The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                                                      Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                                                      Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                                                      bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                                                      bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                                                      is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                                                      participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                                                      bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                                                      o Me Up At Does

                                                      Me up at does

                                                      out of the floor

                                                      quietly Stare

                                                      a poisoned mouse

                                                      still who alive

                                                      is asking What

                                                      have I done that

                                                      You wouldnt have

                                                      In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                                                      The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                                                      Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                                                      A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                                                      B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                                                      1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                                                      D Variety of sentence patterns

                                                      1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                                                      E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                                                      1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                                                      Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                                                      Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                                                      denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                                                      connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                                                      Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                                                      The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                                                      overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                                                      Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                                                      1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                                                      2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                                                      3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                                                      4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                                                      Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                                                      Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                                                      These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                                                      Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                                                      No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                                                      Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                                                      We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                                                      SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                                                      In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                                                      Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                                                      Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                                                      (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                                                      In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                                                      Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                                                      not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                                                      rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                                                      SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                                      Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                                      VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                                      WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                                      differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                                      alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                                      TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                                      details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                                      setting plot details point of view diction

                                                      READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                                      impact shock anger awareness connections

                                                      contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                                      Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                                      Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                                      but rather hywoamninnad

                                                      ffiimonm

                                                      snaafislaapffabuaain

                                                      nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                                      kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                                      condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                                      Contrast and Comparision

                                                      or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                                      Emphasis and Repetition

                                                      or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                                      ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                                      Time

                                                      oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                                      rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                                      in futur subsequently

                                                      Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                                      ound e de whenever op

                                                      eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                                      n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                                      at the right before between

                                                      in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                                      R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                                      in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                                      TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                                      Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                                      words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                                      ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                                      1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                                      Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                                      2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                                      Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                                      Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                                      additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                                      Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                                      Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                                      Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                                      Words that Identify

                                                      that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                                      that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                                      but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                                      Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                                      Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                                      Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                                      Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                                      CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                                      seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                                      Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                                      EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                                      Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                                      Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                                      SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                                      in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                                      previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                                      finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                                      to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                                      Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                      Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                      EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                      Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                      Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                      core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                      Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                      Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                      As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                      Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                      other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                      Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                      Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                      Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                      In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                      Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                      (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                      AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                      from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                      drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                      principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                      the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                      15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                      known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                      of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                      choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                      itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                      APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                      bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                      guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                      authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                      sense of urgency specific examples

                                                      LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                      bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                      bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                      ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                      ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                      Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                      State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                      THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                      Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                      1

                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                      1

                                                      AP English Languageand Composition

                                                      Synthesis Question

                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                      2

                                                      Format

                                                      bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                      and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                      position on topic addressed in sources

                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                      3

                                                      Sources

                                                      bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                      other visual

                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                      4

                                                      Types of Sources

                                                      bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                      5

                                                      Synthesize the Argument

                                                      bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                      bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                      bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                      bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                      6

                                                      Distinctions

                                                      bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                      Source B etchellip)

                                                      2

                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                      7

                                                      Savvy Writers

                                                      bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                      their argument

                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                      8

                                                      Six-Part Approach

                                                      bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                      9

                                                      Readhellip and Analyze

                                                      bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                      makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                      assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                      10

                                                      Generalize

                                                      bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                      bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                      bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                      bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                      11

                                                      Converse

                                                      bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                      bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                      bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                      12

                                                      Finesse

                                                      bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                      bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                      bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                      3

                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                      13

                                                      Argue

                                                      bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                      takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                      14

                                                      Conclusion

                                                      bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                      position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                      THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                      WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                      1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                      You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                      3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                      EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                      How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                      1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                      exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                      Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                      The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                      EXAMPLE

                                                      Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                      If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                      1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                      concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                      Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                      Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                      Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                      1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                      2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                      3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                      4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                      EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                      1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                      2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                      earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                      3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                      4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                      5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                      ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                      6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                      7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                      8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                      his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                      work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                      your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                      develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                      bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                      1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                      Top Ten Mistakes

                                                      Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                      An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                      Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                      And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                      10 Apostrophes

                                                      Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                      Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                      Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                      Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                      Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                      Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                      The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                      The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                      For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                      Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                      There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                      Moses leadership

                                                      Socrates wisdom

                                                      Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                      Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                      8 Conjunction confusion

                                                      Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                      Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                      Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                      Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                      Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                      Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                      Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                      Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                      Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                      6 Cannot

                                                      One word not two (not can not)

                                                      5 Affect and effect

                                                      Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                      She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                      For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                      She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                      A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                      A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                      4 Intents and purposes

                                                      Not intensive purposes

                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                      For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                      For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                      3 Plural or singular

                                                      It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                      The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                      The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                      Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                      2 Principalprinciple

                                                      Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                      Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                      Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                      Heres how to remember the difference

                                                      principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                      principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                      1 Itsits

                                                      Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                      The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                      The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                      Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                      Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                      Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                      (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                      When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                      Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                      Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                      These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                      1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                      2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                      3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                      4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                      5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                      5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                      7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                      8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                      9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                      10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                      Why it matters

                                                      In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                      What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                      Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                      hink

                                                      • AP Review coverdoc
                                                      • APMCPacketpdf
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                                                        • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                          • Questions on the whole passage
                                                          • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                            • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                            • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                              • Grammatical constructions
                                                              • Antecedents
                                                              • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                • Vocabulary in context
                                                                    • MCVocabdoc
                                                                      • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                      • ToneStyle Words
                                                                      • Grammatical Construction
                                                                      • General Vocabulary
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                                                                            • promptpdf
                                                                            • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                            • Syntaxdoc
                                                                              • SYNTAX
                                                                                • Improving writing
                                                                                • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                    • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                      • Diction and Tone
                                                                                        • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                        • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                        • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                        • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                        • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                        • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                        • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                        • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                          • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                            • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                            • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                            • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                              • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                  • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                  • 2006Bpdf

                                                        SYNTAX Syntax is the arrangement of words in meaningful patterns The arrangements normally follow the accepted rules of grammar usage (the patterns of grammar) We generally dont need to pay much attention to syntax in conversations and writing because following the rules is so basic to the use of language that we have a breakdown in communication if the patterns of grammar are not observed correctly thus resulting in a what did you say response However knowledge of how syntax works can help us understand how it affects communication We need to examine the concept of syntax in two ways

                                                        1) Analyzing our own use of syntax to correct or improve our writing

                                                        2) Analyzing an authors use of syntax to achieve a particular effect

                                                        Words are symbols of ideas but they do not begin to say anything until we put them together Sentences which are syntactical units composed by words say something partly because of the lexical content (the meaning) of the words and partly because of the grammatical forms that govern words put together in patterns If a basic grammatical competence has been established you are ready to develop the rhetorical competence to compose effective sentences Rhetorical competence plays its part in the writing process when there are choices to be made from among two or more grammatical possibilities Stylistic variations in the syntax of the sentence cannot ignore the grammar of the language Any changes you make must be grammatical (Cohen) Improving writing Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks

                                                        The problems surface when we begin formal writing tasks and a teacher tells us we have misplaced modifiers or dangling modifiers or that our sentence structure isnt parallel Many students have no idea what these terms mean and therefore have difficulty identifying these problems in their own writing These messages generally mean that the student needs to look closely at the way she has put together the words in a sentence to evaluate how clearly the meaning is being communicated

                                                        A major cause of scrambled syntax is a bad connection between the beginning and ending of a sentence - an ending that seems to have forgotten how it began For instance in the sentence Depending on how the vote goes will determine if our side wins if we respect the beginning our result will go along these lines Depending on how the vote goes our side may win If we respect the ending the result will probably be The vote will determine whether our side wins Consider this sentence To a conscientious student is a desire to get the assignment done which we might revise as To a conscientious student getting the assignment done is very important or A conscientious student always wants to get the assignment done (Sherbert)

                                                        Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                                                        Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                                                        OR ndash

                                                        The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                                                        Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                                                        Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                                                        bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                                                        bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                                                        is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                                                        participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                                                        bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                                                        o Me Up At Does

                                                        Me up at does

                                                        out of the floor

                                                        quietly Stare

                                                        a poisoned mouse

                                                        still who alive

                                                        is asking What

                                                        have I done that

                                                        You wouldnt have

                                                        In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                                                        The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                                                        Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                                                        A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                                                        B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                                                        1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                                                        D Variety of sentence patterns

                                                        1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                                                        E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                                                        1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                                                        Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                                                        Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                                                        denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                                                        connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                                                        Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                                                        The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                                                        overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                                                        Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                                                        1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                                                        2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                                                        3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                                                        4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                                                        Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                                                        Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                                                        These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                                                        Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                                                        No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                                                        Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                                                        We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                                                        SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                                                        In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                                                        Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                                                        Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                                                        (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                                                        In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                                                        Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                                                        not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                                                        rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                                                        SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                                        Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                                        VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                                        WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                                        differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                                        alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                                        TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                                        details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                                        setting plot details point of view diction

                                                        READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                                        impact shock anger awareness connections

                                                        contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                                        Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                                        Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                                        but rather hywoamninnad

                                                        ffiimonm

                                                        snaafislaapffabuaain

                                                        nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                                        kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                                        condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                                        Contrast and Comparision

                                                        or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                                        Emphasis and Repetition

                                                        or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                                        ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                                        Time

                                                        oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                                        rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                                        in futur subsequently

                                                        Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                                        ound e de whenever op

                                                        eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                                        n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                                        at the right before between

                                                        in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                                        R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                                        in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                                        TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                                        Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                                        words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                                        ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                                        1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                                        Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                                        2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                                        Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                                        Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                                        additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                                        Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                                        Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                                        Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                                        Words that Identify

                                                        that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                                        that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                                        but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                                        Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                                        Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                                        Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                                        Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                                        CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                                        seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                                        Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                                        EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                                        Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                                        Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                                        SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                                        in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                                        previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                                        finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                                        to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                                        Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                        Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                        EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                        Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                        Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                        core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                        Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                        Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                        As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                        Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                        other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                        Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                        Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                        Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                        In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                        Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                        (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                        AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                        from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                        drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                        principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                        the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                        15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                        known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                        of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                        choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                        itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                        APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                        bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                        guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                        authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                        sense of urgency specific examples

                                                        LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                        bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                        bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                        ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                        ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                        Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                        State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                        THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                        Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                        1

                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                        1

                                                        AP English Languageand Composition

                                                        Synthesis Question

                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                        2

                                                        Format

                                                        bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                        and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                        position on topic addressed in sources

                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                        3

                                                        Sources

                                                        bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                        other visual

                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                        4

                                                        Types of Sources

                                                        bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                        5

                                                        Synthesize the Argument

                                                        bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                        bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                        bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                        bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                        6

                                                        Distinctions

                                                        bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                        Source B etchellip)

                                                        2

                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                        7

                                                        Savvy Writers

                                                        bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                        their argument

                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                        8

                                                        Six-Part Approach

                                                        bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                        9

                                                        Readhellip and Analyze

                                                        bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                        makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                        assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                        10

                                                        Generalize

                                                        bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                        bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                        bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                        bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                        11

                                                        Converse

                                                        bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                        bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                        bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                        12

                                                        Finesse

                                                        bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                        bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                        bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                        3

                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                        13

                                                        Argue

                                                        bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                        takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                        14

                                                        Conclusion

                                                        bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                        position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                        THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                        WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                        1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                        You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                        3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                        EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                        How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                        1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                        exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                        Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                        The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                        EXAMPLE

                                                        Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                        If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                        1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                        concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                        Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                        Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                        Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                        1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                        2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                        3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                        4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                        EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                        1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                        2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                        earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                        3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                        4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                        5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                        ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                        6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                        7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                        8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                        his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                        work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                        your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                        develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                        bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                        1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                        Top Ten Mistakes

                                                        Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                        An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                        Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                        And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                        10 Apostrophes

                                                        Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                        Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                        Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                        Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                        Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                        Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                        The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                        The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                        For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                        Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                        There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                        Moses leadership

                                                        Socrates wisdom

                                                        Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                        Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                        8 Conjunction confusion

                                                        Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                        Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                        Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                        Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                        Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                        Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                        Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                        Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                        Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                        6 Cannot

                                                        One word not two (not can not)

                                                        5 Affect and effect

                                                        Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                        She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                        For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                        She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                        A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                        A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                        4 Intents and purposes

                                                        Not intensive purposes

                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                        For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                        For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                        3 Plural or singular

                                                        It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                        The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                        The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                        Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                        2 Principalprinciple

                                                        Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                        Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                        Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                        Heres how to remember the difference

                                                        principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                        principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                        1 Itsits

                                                        Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                        The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                        The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                        Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                        Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                        Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                        (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                        When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                        Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                        Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                        These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                        1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                        2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                        3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                        4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                        5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                        5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                        7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                        8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                        9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                        10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                        Why it matters

                                                        In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                        What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                        Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                        hink

                                                        • AP Review coverdoc
                                                        • APMCPacketpdf
                                                          • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                          • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                            • Questions on the whole passage
                                                            • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                              • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                              • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                • Grammatical constructions
                                                                • Antecedents
                                                                • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                  • Vocabulary in context
                                                                      • MCVocabdoc
                                                                        • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                        • ToneStyle Words
                                                                        • Grammatical Construction
                                                                        • General Vocabulary
                                                                          • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                          • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                          • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                            • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                              • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                              • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                              • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                              • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                              • promptpdf
                                                                              • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                              • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                • SYNTAX
                                                                                  • Improving writing
                                                                                  • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                  • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                      • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                        • Diction and Tone
                                                                                          • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                          • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                          • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                          • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                          • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                          • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                          • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                          • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                            • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                              • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                              • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                              • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                  • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                  • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                    • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                    • 2006Bpdf

                                                          Consider the following sentence The dog bit the man The meaning is clear the dog performed the action of biting and the man received that action Now add in these words Ferocious uniformed baring its teeth delivering the daily mail The first two words are easily incorporated into the sentence The ferocious dog bit the uniformed man But the two phrases can be easily inserted in places that confuse the meaning of the sentence

                                                          Delivering the daily mail the dog bit the man

                                                          OR ndash

                                                          The dog bit the man baring its teeth

                                                          Both of these are examples of misplaced modifiers The first example says that the dog was the one who was delivering the daily mail The second example says that the man was baring his teeth These errors are easily corrected as long as the student is thinking as she reads what she has written and paying attention to the structure and meaning of hisher sentences

                                                          Analyzing syntax in literature When we examine an authors use of syntax in order to achieve a particular effect in hisher writing we are evaluating tangible devices which the author may have manipulated to create an emotional or intellectual effect How the author organizes the words creates meaning and effect Analyzing the way in which the meaning has been communicated to us and the effect it has on us allows us to more fully appreciate the authors work in crafting that piece of literature Examining the authors choices in hisher arrangement of words allows us to better understand the authors message Sentence length and patternsampemdashrhythm parallelism word order--all contribute to the emotional effects of a literary passage They create connections between the words which creates meaning What do you look for The following are common techniques for manipulating syntax

                                                          bull unusual (inverted) or unexpected word order Poets in particular are fond of inverting word order to make it sound poetic rather than just ordinary speech Look at the opening line of Robert Frosts poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening Whose woods these are I think I know Frost has avoided conventional word order by reversing the two units of four words (I think I know whose woods these are)

                                                          bull sentence length (especially variations in the length of sentences) bull punctuation Where do commas semi-colons and periods fall within the sentence What

                                                          is the relationship between punctuation and stanzas in a poem bull perspective (point of view) bull interruptions bull parallel structure (creates balance and emphasis - I came I saw I conquered) bull use of similar words (for example a series of sentences or lines of poetry beginning with

                                                          participles - running jumping sliding - give a sense of continuous motion) bull a shift in word order (generally signals an important idea)

                                                          bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                                                          o Me Up At Does

                                                          Me up at does

                                                          out of the floor

                                                          quietly Stare

                                                          a poisoned mouse

                                                          still who alive

                                                          is asking What

                                                          have I done that

                                                          You wouldnt have

                                                          In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                                                          The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                                                          Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                                                          A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                                                          B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                                                          1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                                                          D Variety of sentence patterns

                                                          1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                                                          E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                                                          1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                                                          Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                                                          Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                                                          denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                                                          connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                                                          Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                                                          The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                                                          overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                                                          Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                                                          1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                                                          2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                                                          3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                                                          4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                                                          Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                                                          Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                                                          These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                                                          Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                                                          No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                                                          Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                                                          We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                                                          SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                                                          In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                                                          Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                                                          Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                                                          (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                                                          In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                                                          Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                                                          not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                                                          rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                                                          SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                                          Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                                          VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                                          WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                                          differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                                          alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                                          TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                                          details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                                          setting plot details point of view diction

                                                          READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                                          impact shock anger awareness connections

                                                          contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                                          Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                                          Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                                          but rather hywoamninnad

                                                          ffiimonm

                                                          snaafislaapffabuaain

                                                          nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                                          kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                                          condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                                          Contrast and Comparision

                                                          or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                                          Emphasis and Repetition

                                                          or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                                          ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                                          Time

                                                          oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                                          rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                                          in futur subsequently

                                                          Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                                          ound e de whenever op

                                                          eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                                          n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                                          at the right before between

                                                          in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                                          R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                                          in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                                          TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                                          Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                                          words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                                          ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                                          1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                                          Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                                          2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                                          Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                                          Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                                          additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                                          Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                                          Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                                          Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                                          Words that Identify

                                                          that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                                          that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                                          but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                                          Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                                          Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                                          Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                                          Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                                          CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                                          seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                                          Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                                          EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                                          Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                                          Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                                          SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                                          in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                                          previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                                          finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                                          to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                                          Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                          Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                          EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                          Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                          Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                          core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                          Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                          Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                          As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                          Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                          other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                          Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                          Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                          Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                          In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                          Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                          (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                          AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                          from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                          drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                          principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                          the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                          15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                          known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                          of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                          choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                          itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                          APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                          bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                          guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                          authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                          sense of urgency specific examples

                                                          LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                          bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                          bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                          ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                          ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                          Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                          State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                          THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                          Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                          1

                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                          1

                                                          AP English Languageand Composition

                                                          Synthesis Question

                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                          2

                                                          Format

                                                          bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                          and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                          position on topic addressed in sources

                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                          3

                                                          Sources

                                                          bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                          other visual

                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                          4

                                                          Types of Sources

                                                          bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                          5

                                                          Synthesize the Argument

                                                          bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                          bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                          bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                          bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                          6

                                                          Distinctions

                                                          bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                          Source B etchellip)

                                                          2

                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                          7

                                                          Savvy Writers

                                                          bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                          their argument

                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                          8

                                                          Six-Part Approach

                                                          bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                          9

                                                          Readhellip and Analyze

                                                          bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                          makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                          assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                          10

                                                          Generalize

                                                          bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                          bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                          bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                          bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                          11

                                                          Converse

                                                          bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                          bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                          bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                          12

                                                          Finesse

                                                          bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                          bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                          bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                          3

                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                          13

                                                          Argue

                                                          bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                          takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                          14

                                                          Conclusion

                                                          bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                          position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                          THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                          WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                          1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                          You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                          3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                          EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                          How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                          1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                          exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                          Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                          The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                          EXAMPLE

                                                          Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                          If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                          1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                          concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                          Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                          Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                          Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                          1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                          2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                          3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                          4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                          EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                          1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                          2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                          earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                          3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                          4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                          5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                          ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                          6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                          7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                          8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                          his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                          work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                          your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                          develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                          bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                          1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                          Top Ten Mistakes

                                                          Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                          An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                          Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                          And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                          10 Apostrophes

                                                          Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                          Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                          Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                          Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                          Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                          Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                          The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                          The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                          For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                          Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                          There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                          Moses leadership

                                                          Socrates wisdom

                                                          Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                          Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                          8 Conjunction confusion

                                                          Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                          Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                          Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                          Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                          Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                          Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                          Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                          Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                          Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                          6 Cannot

                                                          One word not two (not can not)

                                                          5 Affect and effect

                                                          Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                          She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                          For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                          She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                          A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                          A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                          4 Intents and purposes

                                                          Not intensive purposes

                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                          For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                          For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                          3 Plural or singular

                                                          It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                          The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                          The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                          Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                          2 Principalprinciple

                                                          Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                          Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                          Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                          Heres how to remember the difference

                                                          principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                          principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                          1 Itsits

                                                          Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                          The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                          The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                          Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                          Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                          Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                          (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                          When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                          Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                          Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                          These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                          1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                          2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                          3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                          4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                          5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                          5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                          7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                          8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                          9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                          10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                          Why it matters

                                                          In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                          What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                          Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                          hink

                                                          • AP Review coverdoc
                                                          • APMCPacketpdf
                                                            • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                            • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                              • Questions on the whole passage
                                                              • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                  • Grammatical constructions
                                                                  • Antecedents
                                                                  • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                    • Vocabulary in context
                                                                        • MCVocabdoc
                                                                          • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                          • ToneStyle Words
                                                                          • Grammatical Construction
                                                                          • General Vocabulary
                                                                            • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                            • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                            • ScorCalculpdf
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                                                                                • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                • promptpdf
                                                                                • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                  • SYNTAX
                                                                                    • Improving writing
                                                                                    • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                    • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                        • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                          • Diction and Tone
                                                                                            • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                            • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                            • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                            • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                            • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                            • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                            • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                            • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                              • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                  • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                    • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                    • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                      • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                      • 2006Bpdf

                                                            bull word order that imitates the action the words described (mimetic syntax) Notice how EE Cummings uses mimetic syntax in this poem

                                                            o Me Up At Does

                                                            Me up at does

                                                            out of the floor

                                                            quietly Stare

                                                            a poisoned mouse

                                                            still who alive

                                                            is asking What

                                                            have I done that

                                                            You wouldnt have

                                                            In order to make sense of this poem we must first rearrange it in conventional syntax We can begin with the subject of the sentence in something like the following manner A poisoned mouse who still alive is asking what have I done that you wouldnt have does quietly stare out of the floor up at me By inverting and fracturing syntax the way he does Cummings surprises us into looking more closely not only at his language but also at the experience it conveys

                                                            The emotional and intellectual experience in reading Cummings original poem and our revision differ significantly Cummings redistribution of words on the page and his unusual syntactic arrangement compel us to look more deliberately at his subject We are made to see much more clearly the mouses point of view Instead of a speaker looking down at a mouse Cummings creates a perspective in which the dying mouse is looking up at his executioner The reversal of perspective is accentuated by the reversal of grammatical subject and predicate the dispersal of phrases in short poetic lines each of which focuses on one small aspect of the experience (Sherbert)

                                                            Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                                                            A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                                                            B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                                                            1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                                                            D Variety of sentence patterns

                                                            1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                                                            E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                                                            1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                                                            Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                                                            Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                                                            denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                                                            connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                                                            Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                                                            The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                                                            overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                                                            Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                                                            1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                                                            2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                                                            3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                                                            4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                                                            Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                                                            Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                                                            These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                                                            Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                                                            No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                                                            Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                                                            We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                                                            SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                                                            In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                                                            Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                                                            Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                                                            (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                                                            In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                                                            Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                                                            not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                                                            rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                                                            SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                                            Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                                            VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                                            WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                                            differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                                            alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                                            TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                                            details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                                            setting plot details point of view diction

                                                            READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                                            impact shock anger awareness connections

                                                            contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                                            Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                                            Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                                            but rather hywoamninnad

                                                            ffiimonm

                                                            snaafislaapffabuaain

                                                            nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                                            kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                                            condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                                            Contrast and Comparision

                                                            or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                                            Emphasis and Repetition

                                                            or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                                            ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                                            Time

                                                            oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                                            rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                                            in futur subsequently

                                                            Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                                            ound e de whenever op

                                                            eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                                            n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                                            at the right before between

                                                            in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                                            R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                                            in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                                            TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                                            Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                                            words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                                            ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                                            1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                                            Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                                            2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                                            Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                                            Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                                            additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                                            Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                                            Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                                            Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                                            Words that Identify

                                                            that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                                            that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                                            but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                                            Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                                            Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                                            Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                                            Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                                            CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                                            seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                                            Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                                            EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                                            Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                                            Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                                            SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                                            in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                                            previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                                            finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                                            to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                                            Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                            Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                            EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                            Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                            Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                            core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                            Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                            Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                            As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                            Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                            other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                            Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                            Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                            Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                            In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                            Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                            (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                            AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                            from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                            drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                            principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                            the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                            15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                            known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                            of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                            choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                            itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                            APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                            bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                            guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                            authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                            sense of urgency specific examples

                                                            LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                            bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                            bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                            ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                            ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                            Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                            State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                            THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                            Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                            1

                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                            1

                                                            AP English Languageand Composition

                                                            Synthesis Question

                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                            2

                                                            Format

                                                            bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                            and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                            position on topic addressed in sources

                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                            3

                                                            Sources

                                                            bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                            other visual

                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                            4

                                                            Types of Sources

                                                            bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                            5

                                                            Synthesize the Argument

                                                            bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                            bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                            bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                            bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                            6

                                                            Distinctions

                                                            bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                            Source B etchellip)

                                                            2

                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                            7

                                                            Savvy Writers

                                                            bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                            their argument

                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                            8

                                                            Six-Part Approach

                                                            bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                            9

                                                            Readhellip and Analyze

                                                            bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                            makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                            assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                            10

                                                            Generalize

                                                            bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                            bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                            bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                            bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                            11

                                                            Converse

                                                            bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                            bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                            bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                            12

                                                            Finesse

                                                            bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                            bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                            bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                            3

                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                            13

                                                            Argue

                                                            bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                            takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                            14

                                                            Conclusion

                                                            bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                            position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                            THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                            WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                            1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                            You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                            3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                            EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                            How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                            1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                            exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                            Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                            The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                            EXAMPLE

                                                            Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                            If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                            1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                            concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                            Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                            Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                            Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                            1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                            2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                            3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                            4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                            EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                            1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                            2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                            earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                            3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                            4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                            5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                            ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                            6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                            7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                            8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                            his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                            work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                            your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                            develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                            bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                            1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                            Top Ten Mistakes

                                                            Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                            An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                            Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                            And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                            10 Apostrophes

                                                            Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                            Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                            Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                            Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                            Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                            Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                            The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                            The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                            For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                            Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                            There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                            Moses leadership

                                                            Socrates wisdom

                                                            Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                            Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                            8 Conjunction confusion

                                                            Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                            Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                            Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                            Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                            Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                            Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                            Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                            Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                            Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                            6 Cannot

                                                            One word not two (not can not)

                                                            5 Affect and effect

                                                            Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                            She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                            For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                            She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                            A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                            A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                            4 Intents and purposes

                                                            Not intensive purposes

                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                            For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                            For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                            3 Plural or singular

                                                            It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                            The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                            The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                            Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                            2 Principalprinciple

                                                            Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                            Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                            Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                            Heres how to remember the difference

                                                            principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                            principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                            1 Itsits

                                                            Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                            The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                            The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                            Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                            Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                            Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                            (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                            When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                            Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                            Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                            These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                            1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                            2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                            3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                            4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                            5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                            5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                            7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                            8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                            9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                            10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                            Why it matters

                                                            In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                            What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                            Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                            hink

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                                                                                      • Analyzing syntax in literature
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                                                                                            • Diction and Tone
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                                                              Bernard Cohen breaks down evaluation of writing style into two main sections choice of diction and arrangements of words in sentences He gives the following list of items for examining diction and syntax

                                                              A Kinds of diction 1 General or specific 2 Abstract or concrete 3 Formal or informal 4 Latinate (usually polysyllabic) or Anglo-Saxon (usually monosyllabic) 5 Common words or jargon 6 Referential (denotative) or emotive (connotative)

                                                              B Length of sentences (measured in number of words) C Kinds of sentences

                                                              1 Grammatical simple compound complex compound-complex 2 Rhetorical loose periodic balanced antithetical 3 Functional statement question command exclamation

                                                              D Variety of sentence patterns

                                                              1 Inversions 2 Sentence openers 3 Method and location of expansion

                                                              E Means of articulating sentences (coherence devices) F Use of figures of speech G Paraphrasing

                                                              1 Length (measured in number of words and number of sentences) 2 Kind of movement or development in paragraphs 3 Use of transitional devices

                                                              Syntactical patterns such as words organized around the mental associations of the poems speaker rhetorical persuasiveness which suggest a carefully worded argument to persuade the audience syntax designed for poetic smoothness or abruptness - all are intended to be expressive They intensify our experience in reading poetry and prose they alert us to meanings that go beyond individual words and sentences to include the intellectual and emotional implications of unusual verbal arrangements (Sherbert) Works Cited Cohen Bernard Writing About Literature Bev ed Glenview Scott Foresman 1973 Sherbert Pat Structure in Syntax Handout for AP English-Literature and Composition Institute 2000

                                                              Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                                                              denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                                                              connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                                                              Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                                                              The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                                                              overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                                                              Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                                                              1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                                                              2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                                                              3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                                                              4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                                                              Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                                                              Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                                                              These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                                                              Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                                                              No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                                                              Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                                                              We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                                                              SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                                                              In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                                                              Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                                                              Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                                                              (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                                                              In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                                                              Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                                                              not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                                                              rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                                                              SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                                              Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                                              VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                                              WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                                              differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                                              alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                                              TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                                              details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                                              setting plot details point of view diction

                                                              READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                                              impact shock anger awareness connections

                                                              contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                                              Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                                              Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                                              but rather hywoamninnad

                                                              ffiimonm

                                                              snaafislaapffabuaain

                                                              nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                                              kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                                              condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                                              Contrast and Comparision

                                                              or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                                              Emphasis and Repetition

                                                              or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                                              ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                                              Time

                                                              oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                                              rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                                              in futur subsequently

                                                              Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                                              ound e de whenever op

                                                              eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                                              n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                                              at the right before between

                                                              in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                                              R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                                              in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                                              TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                                              Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                                              words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                                              ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                                              1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                                              Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                                              2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                                              Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                                              Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                                              additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                                              Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                                              Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                                              Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                                              Words that Identify

                                                              that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                                              that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                                              but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                                              Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                                              Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                                              Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                                              Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                                              CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                                              seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                                              Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                                              EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                                              Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                                              Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                                              SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                                              in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                                              previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                                              finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                                              to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                                              Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                              Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                              EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                              Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                              Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                              core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                              Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                              Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                              As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                              Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                              other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                              Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                              Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                              Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                              In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                              Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                              (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                              AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                              from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                              drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                              principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                              the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                              15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                              known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                              of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                              choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                              itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                              APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                              bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                              guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                              authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                              sense of urgency specific examples

                                                              LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                              bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                              bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                              ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                              ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                              Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                              State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                              THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                              Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                              1

                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                              1

                                                              AP English Languageand Composition

                                                              Synthesis Question

                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                              2

                                                              Format

                                                              bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                              and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                              position on topic addressed in sources

                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                              3

                                                              Sources

                                                              bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                              other visual

                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                              4

                                                              Types of Sources

                                                              bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                              5

                                                              Synthesize the Argument

                                                              bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                              bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                              bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                              bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                              6

                                                              Distinctions

                                                              bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                              Source B etchellip)

                                                              2

                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                              7

                                                              Savvy Writers

                                                              bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                              their argument

                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                              8

                                                              Six-Part Approach

                                                              bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                              9

                                                              Readhellip and Analyze

                                                              bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                              makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                              assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                              10

                                                              Generalize

                                                              bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                              bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                              bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                              bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                              11

                                                              Converse

                                                              bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                              bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                              bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                              12

                                                              Finesse

                                                              bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                              bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                              bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                              3

                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                              13

                                                              Argue

                                                              bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                              takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                              14

                                                              Conclusion

                                                              bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                              position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                              THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                              WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                              1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                              You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                              3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                              EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                              How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                              1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                              exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                              Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                              The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                              EXAMPLE

                                                              Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                              If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                              1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                              concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                              Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                              Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                              Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                              1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                              2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                              3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                              4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                              EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                              1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                              2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                              earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                              3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                              4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                              5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                              ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                              6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                              7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                              8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                              his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                              work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                              your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                              develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                              bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                              1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                              Top Ten Mistakes

                                                              Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                              An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                              Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                              And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                              10 Apostrophes

                                                              Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                              Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                              Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                              Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                              Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                              Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                              The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                              The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                              For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                              Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                              There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                              Moses leadership

                                                              Socrates wisdom

                                                              Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                              Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                              8 Conjunction confusion

                                                              Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                              Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                              Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                              Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                              Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                              Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                              Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                              Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                              Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                              6 Cannot

                                                              One word not two (not can not)

                                                              5 Affect and effect

                                                              Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                              She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                              For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                              She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                              A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                              A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                              4 Intents and purposes

                                                              Not intensive purposes

                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                              For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                              For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                              3 Plural or singular

                                                              It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                              The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                              The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                              Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                              2 Principalprinciple

                                                              Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                              Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                              Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                              Heres how to remember the difference

                                                              principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                              principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                              1 Itsits

                                                              Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                              The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                              The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                              Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                              Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                              Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                              (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                              When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                              Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                              Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                              These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                              1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                              2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                              3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                              4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                              5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                              5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                              7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                              8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                              9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                              10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                              Why it matters

                                                              In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                              What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                              Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                              hink

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                                                                Diction and Tone Diction is defined as a writers choice of words The particular words an author uses will affect not only the message the audience (reader) receives but the way in which we interpret that idea Words have two meanings

                                                                denotation the dictionary definition the literal meaning of the word as a representation of a person place thing idea or action

                                                                connotation the implied meaning of a word An authors communication of connotative meaning is usually made clear through context (the surroundings of a given word or image and its relationships to specific elements in its verbal environment) (Sherbert)

                                                                Douglas Hunt gives us a clear explanation of the difference between denotation and connotation

                                                                The denotation is the direct specific meaning of a word or phrase the literal meaning The connotation is everything else the implications the suggestions the associations the

                                                                overtones When [William] Stafford [in his poem Traveling Through the Dark] says that his car aimed its lowered parking lights the denotation is merely an image of a car with its parking lights on but aimed implies (for me at least) an intention on the cars part and lowered suggests the lowering of eyes Combine this with the next lineunder the hood purred the steady engine and you have language that denotes a car but connotes an animal

                                                                Diction is classified into four levels (the following definitions are taken from Glossary of Literary Terms A-E)

                                                                1 Formal diction a dignified impersonal and elevated use of language It is exacting in its adherence to the rules of grammar and uses complex vocabulary

                                                                2 Middle diction still follows the rules of correct language usage but is less elevated It reflects the way most educated people speak

                                                                3 Informal diction the plain language of everyday use This often involves idiomatic expressions slang contractions and simple or common words

                                                                4 Poetic diction Poets sometimes use an elevated diction that is significantly different from the common speech and writing of their time These can be words that are chosen (or sometimes created) by the poet because they have a special poetic quality - an ability to communicate a complex thought in a word or phrase

                                                                Note that words have both denotative and connotative meanings at all four levels of diction The level used by an author to communicate hisher message will depend a great deal on the message to be communicated the intended audience and the form of communication (ie formal speechaddress story with characters and dialogue or poetry) The connotations of words have great rhetorical value for example in prompting the emotional appeal of a discourse Robert H Thouless has ably demonstrated the emotional value of connotations in his analysis of the diction in two verses by John Keats In THE EVE OF ST AGNES Keats has written

                                                                Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                                                                These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                                                                Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                                                                No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                                                                Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                                                                We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                                                                SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                                                                In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                                                                Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                                                                Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                                                                (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                                                                In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                                                                Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                                                                not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                                                                rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                                                                SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                                                Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                                                VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                                                WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                                                differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                                                alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                                                TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                                                details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                                                setting plot details point of view diction

                                                                READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                                                impact shock anger awareness connections

                                                                contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                                                Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                                                Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                                                but rather hywoamninnad

                                                                ffiimonm

                                                                snaafislaapffabuaain

                                                                nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                                                kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                                                condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                                                Contrast and Comparision

                                                                or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                                                Emphasis and Repetition

                                                                or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                                                ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                                                Time

                                                                oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                                                rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                                                in futur subsequently

                                                                Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                                                ound e de whenever op

                                                                eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                                                n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                                                at the right before between

                                                                in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                                                R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                                                in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                                                TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                                                Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                                                words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                                                ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                                                1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                                                Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                                                2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                                                Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                                                Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                                                additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                                                Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                                                Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                                                Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                                                Words that Identify

                                                                that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                                                that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                                                but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                                                Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                                                Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                                                Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                                                Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                                                CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                                                seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                                                Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                                                EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                                                Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                                                Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                                                SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                                                in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                                                previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                                                finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                                                to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                                                Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                                Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                                EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                                Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                                Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                                core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                                Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                                Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                                As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                                Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                                other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                                Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                                Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                                Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                                In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                                Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                                (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                                AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                                from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                                drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                                principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                                the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                                15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                                known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                                of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                                choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                                itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                                APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                                guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                                authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                                sense of urgency specific examples

                                                                LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                                bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                                ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                                ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                                Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                                State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                                THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                                Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                                1

                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                1

                                                                AP English Languageand Composition

                                                                Synthesis Question

                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                2

                                                                Format

                                                                bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                                and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                                position on topic addressed in sources

                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                3

                                                                Sources

                                                                bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                                other visual

                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                4

                                                                Types of Sources

                                                                bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                5

                                                                Synthesize the Argument

                                                                bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                                bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                                bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                                bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                6

                                                                Distinctions

                                                                bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                                Source B etchellip)

                                                                2

                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                7

                                                                Savvy Writers

                                                                bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                their argument

                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                8

                                                                Six-Part Approach

                                                                bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                9

                                                                Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                10

                                                                Generalize

                                                                bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                11

                                                                Converse

                                                                bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                12

                                                                Finesse

                                                                bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                3

                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                13

                                                                Argue

                                                                bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                14

                                                                Conclusion

                                                                bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                EXAMPLE

                                                                Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                10 Apostrophes

                                                                Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                Moses leadership

                                                                Socrates wisdom

                                                                Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                6 Cannot

                                                                One word not two (not can not)

                                                                5 Affect and effect

                                                                Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                4 Intents and purposes

                                                                Not intensive purposes

                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                3 Plural or singular

                                                                It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                2 Principalprinciple

                                                                Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                1 Itsits

                                                                Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                Why it matters

                                                                In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                hink

                                                                • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                  • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                  • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                    • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                    • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                      • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                      • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                        • Grammatical constructions
                                                                        • Antecedents
                                                                        • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                          • Vocabulary in context
                                                                              • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                • General Vocabulary
                                                                                  • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                  • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                  • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                    • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                      • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                      • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                      • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                      • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                      • promptpdf
                                                                                      • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                      • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                        • SYNTAX
                                                                                          • Improving writing
                                                                                          • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                          • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                              • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                  • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                  • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                  • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                  • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                  • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                  • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                  • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                  • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                    • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                      • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                      • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                      • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                        • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                          • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                          • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                            • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                            • 2006Bpdf

                                                                  Full on this casement shone the wintry moon And threw warm gules on Madelines fair breast

                                                                  These are beautiful lines Let us notice how much of their beauty follows from the proper choice of emotionally colored words and how completely it is lost if these words are replaced by neutral ones The words with strikingly emotional meanings are CASEMENT GULES MADELINE FAIR and BREAST CASEMENT means simply a kind of window with emotional and romantic associations GULES is the heraldic name for red with the suggestion of romance which accompanies all heraldry MADELINE is simply a girls name but one calling out favorable emotions absent from a relatively plain and straightforward name FAIR simply means in objective fact that her skin was white or uncolored a necessary condition for the colors of the window to show but also fair implies warm emotional preference for an uncolored skin rather than one which is yellow purple black or any of the other colors which skin might be BREAST has also similar emotional meaning and the aim of scientific description might have been equally well attained if it had been replaced by such a neutral word as CHEST Let us now try the experiment of keeping those two lines in a metrical form but replacing all the emotionally colored words by neutral ones while making as few other changes as possible We may write

                                                                  Full on this window shone the wintry moon Making red marks on Janes uncolored chest

                                                                  No one will doubt that all of its poetic value has been knocked out of the passage by these changes Yet the lines still mean the same in external fact they still have the same objective meaning It is only the emotional meaning which has been destroyed Consider this example in which H L Mencken in prose is seeking to influence our attitude toward a certain kind of teacher

                                                                  Such idiots despite the rise of scientific pedagogy have not died out in the world I believe that our schools are full of them both in pantaloons and in skirts There are fanatics who love and venerate spelling as a tom-cat loves and venerates catnip There are grammatomaniacs schoolmarms who would rather parse than eat specialists in an objective case that doesnt exist in English strange beings otherwise sane and even intelligent and comely who suffer under a split infinitive as you or I would suffer under gastro-enteritis There are geography cranks able to bound Mesopotamia and Baluchistan There are zealots for long division experts in the multiplication tables lunatic worshippers of the binomial theorem But the system has them in its grip It combats their natural enthusiasm diligently and mercilessly It tries to convert them into mere technicians clumsy machines

                                                                  We cannot examine all the techniques that Mencken uses in his satirical writings but we can note here the subtle way in which he influences our reactions simply by his choice of words A good deal of the effect of this passage is produced by Menckens namecalling The names that Mencken used here are heavily freighted with emotional overtones IDIOTS FANATICS

                                                                  SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                                                                  In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                                                                  Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                                                                  Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                                                                  (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                                                                  In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                                                                  Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                                                                  not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                                                                  rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                                                                  SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                                                  Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                                                  VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                                                  WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                                                  differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                                                  alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                                                  TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                                                  details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                                                  setting plot details point of view diction

                                                                  READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                                                  impact shock anger awareness connections

                                                                  contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                                                  Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                                                  Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                                                  but rather hywoamninnad

                                                                  ffiimonm

                                                                  snaafislaapffabuaain

                                                                  nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                                                  kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                                                  condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                                                  Contrast and Comparision

                                                                  or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                                                  Emphasis and Repetition

                                                                  or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                                                  ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                                                  Time

                                                                  oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                                                  rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                                                  in futur subsequently

                                                                  Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                                                  ound e de whenever op

                                                                  eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                                                  n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                                                  at the right before between

                                                                  in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                                                  R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                                                  in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                                                  TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                                                  Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                                                  words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                                                  ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                                                  1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                                                  Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                                                  2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                                                  Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                                                  Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                                                  additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                                                  Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                                                  Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                                                  Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                                                  Words that Identify

                                                                  that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                                                  that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                                                  but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                                                  Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                                                  Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                                                  Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                                                  Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                                                  CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                                                  seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                                                  Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                                                  EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                                                  Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                                                  Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                                                  SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                                                  in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                                                  previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                                                  finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                                                  to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                                                  Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                                  Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                                  EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                                  Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                                  Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                                  core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                                  Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                                  Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                                  As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                                  Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                                  other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                                  Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                                  Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                                  Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                                  In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                                  Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                                  (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                                  AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                                  from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                                  drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                                  principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                                  the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                                  15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                                  known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                                  of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                                  choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                                  itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                                  APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                  bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                                  guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                                  authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                                  sense of urgency specific examples

                                                                  LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                  bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                                  bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                                  ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                                  ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                                  Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                                  State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                                  THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                                  Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                                  1

                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                  1

                                                                  AP English Languageand Composition

                                                                  Synthesis Question

                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                  2

                                                                  Format

                                                                  bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                                  and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                                  position on topic addressed in sources

                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                  3

                                                                  Sources

                                                                  bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                                  other visual

                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                  4

                                                                  Types of Sources

                                                                  bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                  5

                                                                  Synthesize the Argument

                                                                  bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                                  bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                                  bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                                  bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                  6

                                                                  Distinctions

                                                                  bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                                  Source B etchellip)

                                                                  2

                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                  7

                                                                  Savvy Writers

                                                                  bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                  their argument

                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                  8

                                                                  Six-Part Approach

                                                                  bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                  9

                                                                  Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                  bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                  makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                  assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                  10

                                                                  Generalize

                                                                  bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                  bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                  bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                  bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                  11

                                                                  Converse

                                                                  bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                  bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                  bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                  12

                                                                  Finesse

                                                                  bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                  bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                  bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                  3

                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                  13

                                                                  Argue

                                                                  bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                  takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                  14

                                                                  Conclusion

                                                                  bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                  position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                  THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                  WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                  1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                  You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                  3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                  EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                  How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                  1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                  exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                  Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                  The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                  EXAMPLE

                                                                  Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                  If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                  1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                  concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                  Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                  Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                  Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                  1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                  2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                  3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                  4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                  EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                  1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                  2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                  earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                  3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                  4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                  5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                  ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                  6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                  7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                  8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                  his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                  work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                  your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                  develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                  bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                  1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                  Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                  Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                  An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                  Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                  And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                  10 Apostrophes

                                                                  Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                  Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                  Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                  Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                  Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                  Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                  The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                  The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                  For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                  Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                  There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                  Moses leadership

                                                                  Socrates wisdom

                                                                  Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                  Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                  8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                  Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                  Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                  Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                  Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                  Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                  Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                  Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                  Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                  Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                  6 Cannot

                                                                  One word not two (not can not)

                                                                  5 Affect and effect

                                                                  Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                  She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                  For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                  She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                  A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                  A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                  4 Intents and purposes

                                                                  Not intensive purposes

                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                  For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                  For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                  3 Plural or singular

                                                                  It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                  The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                  The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                  Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                  2 Principalprinciple

                                                                  Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                  Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                  Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                  Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                  principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                  principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                  1 Itsits

                                                                  Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                  The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                  The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                  Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                  Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                  Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                  (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                  When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                  Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                  Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                  These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                  1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                  2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                  3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                  4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                  5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                  5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                  7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                  8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                  9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                  10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                  Why it matters

                                                                  In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                  What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                  Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                  hink

                                                                  • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                  • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                    • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                    • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                      • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                      • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                        • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                        • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                          • Grammatical constructions
                                                                          • Antecedents
                                                                          • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                            • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                  • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                  • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                  • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                  • General Vocabulary
                                                                                    • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                    • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                    • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                      • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                        • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                        • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                        • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                        • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                        • promptpdf
                                                                                        • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                        • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                          • SYNTAX
                                                                                            • Improving writing
                                                                                            • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                            • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                  • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                    • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                    • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                    • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                    • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                    • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                    • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                    • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                    • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                      • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                        • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                        • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                        • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                          • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                            • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                            • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                              • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                              • 2006Bpdf

                                                                    SCHOOLMARMS (one of Menckens favorite derogatory epithets) CRANKS ZEALOTS LUNATIC WORSHIPPERS All of these words carry the discrediting connotation of extreme irrational commitment to a cause the taint of enthusiasm that many critics ascribed to the evangelical sects in the eighteenth and nineteenth century England Where Mencken fails to find an emotional epithet to suit his purpose he invents one GRAMMATOMANIACS Most readers do not know what GASTRO-ENTERITIS means but they do not have to know the word just sounds awful Notice how Mencken in the second sentence of this passage indicates that he is talking about both men and women teachers in pantaloons and in skirts PANTALOONS was an especially clever choice PANTS would have been the word that most of us would have chosen as the counterpart of SKIRTS But Mencken detected an extra connotative value of the word PANTALOONS suggesting to a modern audience something archaic slightly feminine Note too how Mencken uses a simile in the third sentence to deprecate the object of his satire comparing devotees of correct spelling to the lowly back-alley TOM-CAT One of the deadliest words in the English language is the word MERE Mencken uses this word with devastating effectiveness at the end of this passage where he begins to shift his ground attack warning us that these enthusiastic pedagogues are now in danger of being turned into dispassionate machines as a result of their exposure to teachers college bunkum What is more chilling than to be called a mere technician (Sherbert) The relationship between diction and tone Diction is a tool an author uses to communicate hisher feelings about a subject Pat Sherbert defines tone as follows

                                                                    In a literary work tone is the attitude the author projects That attitude is revealed through his choice of details through his diction and through his emphasis and comments

                                                                    Although tone and attitude are frequently used in textbooks interchangeably (defined tone is attitude) they can differhellipTone only reflects attitude The writer through his choice of devices such as diction and syntax (style) implies a tone as a result the reader infers an attitude Tone is a musical metaphor for the writers relationships with readers that result from writers making two decisions (1) how they will express their feelings about the subject and (2) how they will place themselves socially intellectually or morally with regard to their implied readers - as their superiors looking down as their inferiors looking up or as their equals addressing them eye-to-eye Tone as the expression of feeling should not be confused with the description of feeling Tone expresses or implies the writers emotional state the feeling about the subject that the writer desires to share it will often differ markedly from the feelings expressed by characters who appear in the writing A writer for example can describe the cheerfulness of the airline flight attendants in a sarcastic tone the self-dramatizing gloom of a spoiled child in a scoffing tone or the pompous pontifications of a political candidate in a tone of good-natured joshing

                                                                    Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                                                                    (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                                                                    In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                                                                    Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                                                                    not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                                                                    rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                                                                    SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                                                    Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                                                    VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                                                    WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                                                    differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                                                    alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                                                    TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                                                    details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                                                    setting plot details point of view diction

                                                                    READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                                                    impact shock anger awareness connections

                                                                    contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                                                    Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                                                    Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                                                    but rather hywoamninnad

                                                                    ffiimonm

                                                                    snaafislaapffabuaain

                                                                    nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                                                    kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                                                    condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                                                    Contrast and Comparision

                                                                    or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                                                    Emphasis and Repetition

                                                                    or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                                                    ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                                                    Time

                                                                    oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                                                    rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                                                    in futur subsequently

                                                                    Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                                                    ound e de whenever op

                                                                    eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                                                    n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                                                    at the right before between

                                                                    in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                                                    R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                                                    in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                                                    TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                                                    Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                                                    words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                                                    ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                                                    1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                                                    Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                                                    2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                                                    Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                                                    Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                                                    additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                                                    Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                                                    Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                                                    Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                                                    Words that Identify

                                                                    that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                                                    that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                                                    but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                                                    Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                                                    Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                                                    Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                                                    Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                                                    CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                                                    seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                                                    Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                                                    EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                                                    Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                                                    Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                                                    SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                                                    in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                                                    previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                                                    finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                                                    to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                                                    Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                                    Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                                    EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                                    Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                                    Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                                    core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                                    Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                                    Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                                    As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                                    Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                                    other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                                    Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                                    Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                                    Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                                    In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                                    Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                                    (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                                    AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                                    from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                                    drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                                    principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                                    the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                                    15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                                    known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                                    of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                                    choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                                    itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                                    APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                    bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                                    guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                                    authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                                    sense of urgency specific examples

                                                                    LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                    bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                                    bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                                    ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                                    ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                                    Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                                    State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                                    THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                                    Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                                    1

                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                    1

                                                                    AP English Languageand Composition

                                                                    Synthesis Question

                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                    2

                                                                    Format

                                                                    bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                                    and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                                    position on topic addressed in sources

                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                    3

                                                                    Sources

                                                                    bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                                    other visual

                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                    4

                                                                    Types of Sources

                                                                    bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                    5

                                                                    Synthesize the Argument

                                                                    bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                                    bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                                    bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                                    bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                    6

                                                                    Distinctions

                                                                    bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                                    Source B etchellip)

                                                                    2

                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                    7

                                                                    Savvy Writers

                                                                    bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                    their argument

                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                    8

                                                                    Six-Part Approach

                                                                    bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                    9

                                                                    Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                    bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                    makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                    assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                    10

                                                                    Generalize

                                                                    bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                    bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                    bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                    bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                    11

                                                                    Converse

                                                                    bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                    bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                    bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                    12

                                                                    Finesse

                                                                    bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                    bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                    bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                    3

                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                    13

                                                                    Argue

                                                                    bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                    takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                    14

                                                                    Conclusion

                                                                    bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                    position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                    THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                    WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                    1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                    You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                    3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                    EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                    How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                    1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                    exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                    Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                    The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                    EXAMPLE

                                                                    Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                    If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                    1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                    concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                    Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                    Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                    Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                    1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                    2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                    3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                    4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                    EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                    1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                    2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                    earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                    3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                    4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                    5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                    ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                    6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                    7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                    8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                    his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                    work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                    your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                    develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                    bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                    1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                    Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                    Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                    An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                    Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                    And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                    10 Apostrophes

                                                                    Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                    Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                    Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                    Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                    Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                    Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                    The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                    The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                    For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                    Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                    There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                    Moses leadership

                                                                    Socrates wisdom

                                                                    Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                    Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                    8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                    Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                    Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                    Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                    Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                    Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                    Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                    Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                    Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                    Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                    6 Cannot

                                                                    One word not two (not can not)

                                                                    5 Affect and effect

                                                                    Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                    She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                    For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                    She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                    A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                    A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                    4 Intents and purposes

                                                                    Not intensive purposes

                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                    For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                    For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                    3 Plural or singular

                                                                    It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                    The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                    The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                    Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                    2 Principalprinciple

                                                                    Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                    Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                    Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                    Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                    principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                    principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                    1 Itsits

                                                                    Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                    The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                    The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                    Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                    Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                    Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                    (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                    When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                    Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                    Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                    These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                    1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                    2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                    3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                    4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                    5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                    5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                    7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                    8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                    9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                    10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                    Why it matters

                                                                    In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                    What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                    Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                    hink

                                                                    • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                    • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                      • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                      • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                        • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                        • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                          • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                          • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                            • Grammatical constructions
                                                                            • Antecedents
                                                                            • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                              • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                  • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                    • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                    • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                    • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                    • General Vocabulary
                                                                                      • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
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                                                                                      • ScorCalculpdf
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                                                                                          • Rhetoricdoc
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                                                                                          • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                          • promptpdf
                                                                                          • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                          • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                            • SYNTAX
                                                                                              • Improving writing
                                                                                              • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                              • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                  • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                    • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                      • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                      • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                      • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                      • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                      • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                      • Argumentvocabdoc
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                                                                                                      • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                        • APSynandGenpdf
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                                                                                                            • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
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                                                                      Clearly writers need not say what they are feeling tone emerges as a quality of the whole utterance whether spoken or written An indignant speaker might say with deep sarcasm Im delighted that you show such contempt for my efforts Nothing pleases me more than to find honesty where I might least expect it The speaker does not need to say Im indignant When Wordsworth says But yet I know whereer I go That there hath passed away a glory from the earth his sense of loss can be heard without his having to say Im sad It is reported that Mark Twain would never smile as he delivered popular speeches that kept his audiences in stitches Tone then is the quality of voice that conveys feelings whether they are stated directly or indirectly With variations of tone we can express love or hate happiness or grief comradeship or contempt compassion or loathing humor or seriousness anger indignation outrage or forgiveness And these tones are only a beginning Writers usually present not only tone but also a mixture of tones anger and pity sorrow and hope and so onhellip An analysis of tone will depend on a precise and accurate understanding of the authors attitude toward

                                                                      (1) the subject (2) the audience (3) himself

                                                                      In order to investigate tone and attitude we use the acronym DIDS

                                                                      Diction The purposeful selection of words for their denotative or connotative value Images The words and phrases that appeal to one or more of the five senses Details Concrete words used to call up an image sometimes called concrete imagery and

                                                                      not to be confused with a sensory image a referent Syntax The authors arrangement of sounds phrases and clauses that becomes a

                                                                      rhetorical effect Tim Averill says tone is an end of rhetoric whereas diction imagery selected details and manipulated syntax are tangible means that can reveal an authors tone Averill breaks toneattitude into the following categories which he identifies as language we can use to describe tone Positive lighthearted hopeful exuberant enthusiastic complimentary confident cheery optimistic loving passionate amused elated sympathetic compassionate proud Negative Anger angry disgusted outraged accusing condemnatory furious wrathful bitter inflammatory irritated indignant threatening HumorIronySarcasm scornful disdainful contemptuous sarcastic cynical critical facetious patronizing satiric condescending sardonic mock-heroic bantering irreverent mock-serious taunting insolent pompous ironic flippant grotesque

                                                                      SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                                                      Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                                                      VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                                                      WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                                                      differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                                                      alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                                                      TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                                                      details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                                                      setting plot details point of view diction

                                                                      READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                                                      impact shock anger awareness connections

                                                                      contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                                                      Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                                                      Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                                                      but rather hywoamninnad

                                                                      ffiimonm

                                                                      snaafislaapffabuaain

                                                                      nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                                                      kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                                                      condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                                                      Contrast and Comparision

                                                                      or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                                                      Emphasis and Repetition

                                                                      or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                                                      ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                                                      Time

                                                                      oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                                                      rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                                                      in futur subsequently

                                                                      Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                                                      ound e de whenever op

                                                                      eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                                                      n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                                                      at the right before between

                                                                      in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                                                      R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                                                      in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                                                      TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                                                      Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                                                      words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                                                      ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                                                      1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                                                      Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                                                      2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                                                      Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                                                      Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                                                      additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                                                      Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                                                      Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                                                      Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                                                      Words that Identify

                                                                      that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                                                      that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                                                      but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                                                      Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                                                      Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                                                      Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                                                      Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                                                      CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                                                      seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                                                      Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                                                      EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                                                      Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                                                      Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                                                      SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                                                      in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                                                      previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                                                      finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                                                      to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                                                      Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                                      Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                                      EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                                      Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                                      Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                                      core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                                      Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                                      Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                                      As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                                      Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                                      other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                                      Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                                      Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                                      Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                                      In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                                      Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                                      (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                                      AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                                      from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                                      drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                                      principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                                      the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                                      15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                                      known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                                      of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                                      choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                                      itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                                      APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                      bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                                      guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                                      authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                                      sense of urgency specific examples

                                                                      LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                      bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                                      bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                                      ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                                      ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                                      Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                                      State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                                      THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                                      Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                                      1

                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                      1

                                                                      AP English Languageand Composition

                                                                      Synthesis Question

                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                      2

                                                                      Format

                                                                      bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                                      and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                                      position on topic addressed in sources

                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                      3

                                                                      Sources

                                                                      bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                                      other visual

                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                      4

                                                                      Types of Sources

                                                                      bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                      5

                                                                      Synthesize the Argument

                                                                      bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                                      bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                                      bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                                      bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                      6

                                                                      Distinctions

                                                                      bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                                      Source B etchellip)

                                                                      2

                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                      7

                                                                      Savvy Writers

                                                                      bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                      their argument

                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                      8

                                                                      Six-Part Approach

                                                                      bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                      9

                                                                      Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                      bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                      makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                      assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                      10

                                                                      Generalize

                                                                      bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                      bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                      bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                      bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                      11

                                                                      Converse

                                                                      bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                      bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                      bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                      12

                                                                      Finesse

                                                                      bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                      bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                      bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                      3

                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                      13

                                                                      Argue

                                                                      bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                      takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                      14

                                                                      Conclusion

                                                                      bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                      position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                      THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                      WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                      1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                      You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                      3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                      EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                      How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                      1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                      exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                      Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                      The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                      EXAMPLE

                                                                      Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                      If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                      1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                      concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                      Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                      Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                      Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                      1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                      2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                      3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                      4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                      EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                      1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                      2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                      earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                      3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                      4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                      5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                      ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                      6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                      7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                      8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                      his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                      work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                      your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                      develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                      bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                      1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                      Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                      Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                      An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                      Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                      And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                      10 Apostrophes

                                                                      Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                      Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                      Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                      Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                      Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                      Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                      The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                      The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                      For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                      Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                      There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                      Moses leadership

                                                                      Socrates wisdom

                                                                      Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                      Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                      8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                      Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                      Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                      Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                      Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                      Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                      Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                      Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                      Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                      Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                      6 Cannot

                                                                      One word not two (not can not)

                                                                      5 Affect and effect

                                                                      Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                      She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                      For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                      She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                      A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                      A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                      4 Intents and purposes

                                                                      Not intensive purposes

                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                      For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                      For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                      3 Plural or singular

                                                                      It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                      The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                      The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                      Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                      2 Principalprinciple

                                                                      Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                      Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                      Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                      Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                      principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                      principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                      1 Itsits

                                                                      Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                      The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                      The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                      Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                      Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                      Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                      (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                      When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                      Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                      Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                      These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                      1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                      2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                      3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                      4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                      5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                      5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                      7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                      8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                      9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                      10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                      Why it matters

                                                                      In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                      What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                      Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                      hink

                                                                      • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                      • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                        • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                        • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                          • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                          • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                            • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                            • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                              • Grammatical constructions
                                                                              • Antecedents
                                                                              • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                    • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                      • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                      • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                      • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                      • General Vocabulary
                                                                                        • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                        • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                        • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                          • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                            • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                            • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                            • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                            • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                            • promptpdf
                                                                                            • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                            • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                              • SYNTAX
                                                                                                • Improving writing
                                                                                                • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                    • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                      • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                        • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                        • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                        • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                        • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                        • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                        • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                        • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                        • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                          • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                            • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                            • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                            • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                              • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                  • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                  • 2006Bpdf

                                                                        SorrowFearWorry somber elegiac melancholic sad disturbed mournful solemn serious apprehensive concerned hopeless staid resigned Neutral formal objective incredulous nostalgic ceremonial candid shocked reminiscent restrained clinical baffled sentimental detached disbelieving questioning urgent instructive matter-of-fact admonitory learned factual didactic informative authoritative Averills three simple categories can provide a starting point for analyzing tone in many works of literature but authors often use a combination of attitudes You may need a more comprehensive list of categories in order to adequately describe an authors attitude in a specific manner Sherberts list is as follows Attitudes of logic explanatory didactic admonitory condemnatory indignant puzzled curious guileless thoughtless innocent frank sincere questioning uncertain doubting incredulous critical cynical insinuating persuading coaxing pleading persuasive argumentative oracular Attitudes of pleasure peaceful satisfied contented happy cheerful pleasant bright joyful playful jubilant elated enraptured Attitudes of pain worried uneasy troubled disappointed regretful vexed annoyed bored disgusted miserable cheerless mournful sorrowful sad dismal melancholy plaintive fretful querulous irritable sore sour sulky dismal sullen bitter crushed pathetic tragic Attitudes of passion nervous hysterical impulsive impetuous reckless desperate frantic wild fierce serious savage enraged angry hungry greedy jealous insane wistful Attitudes of friendliness cordial sociable gracious kindly sympathetic compassionate forgiving pitying indulgent tolerant comforting soothing tender loving caressing solicitous accommodating approving helpful obliging courteous polite confiding trusting Attitudes of comedy facetious comic ironic satiric amused mocking playful humorous uproarious Attitudes of animation lively eager excited earnest energetic vigorous hearty ardent passionate rapturous ecstatic feverish exalted breathless hasty brisk crisp hopeful Attitudes of apathy inert sluggish languid dispassionate dull colorless indifferent stoical resigned defeated helpless hopeless dry monotonous vacant feeble dreaming bored blaseacute sophisticated

                                                                        Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                                                        VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                                                        WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                                                        differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                                                        alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                                                        TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                                                        details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                                                        setting plot details point of view diction

                                                                        READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                                                        impact shock anger awareness connections

                                                                        contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                                                        Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                                                        Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                                                        but rather hywoamninnad

                                                                        ffiimonm

                                                                        snaafislaapffabuaain

                                                                        nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                                                        kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                                                        condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                                                        Contrast and Comparision

                                                                        or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                                                        Emphasis and Repetition

                                                                        or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                                                        ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                                                        Time

                                                                        oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                                                        rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                                                        in futur subsequently

                                                                        Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                                                        ound e de whenever op

                                                                        eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                                                        n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                                                        at the right before between

                                                                        in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                                                        R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                                                        in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                                                        TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                                                        Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                                                        words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                                                        ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                                                        1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                                                        Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                                                        2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                                                        Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                                                        Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                                                        additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                                                        Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                                                        Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                                                        Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                                                        Words that Identify

                                                                        that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                                                        that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                                                        but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                                                        Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                                                        Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                                                        Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                                                        Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                                                        CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                                                        seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                                                        Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                                                        EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                                                        Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                                                        Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                                                        SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                                                        in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                                                        previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                                                        finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                                                        to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                                                        Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                                        Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                                        EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                                        Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                                        Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                                        core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                                        Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                                        Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                                        As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                                        Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                                        other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                                        Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                                        Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                                        Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                                        In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                                        Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                                        (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                                        AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                                        from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                                        drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                                        principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                                        the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                                        15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                                        known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                                        of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                                        choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                                        itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                                        APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                        bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                                        guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                                        authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                                        sense of urgency specific examples

                                                                        LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                        bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                                        bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                                        ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                                        ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                                        Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                                        State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                                        THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                                        Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                                        1

                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                        1

                                                                        AP English Languageand Composition

                                                                        Synthesis Question

                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                        2

                                                                        Format

                                                                        bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                                        and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                                        position on topic addressed in sources

                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                        3

                                                                        Sources

                                                                        bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                                        other visual

                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                        4

                                                                        Types of Sources

                                                                        bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                        5

                                                                        Synthesize the Argument

                                                                        bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                                        bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                                        bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                                        bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                        6

                                                                        Distinctions

                                                                        bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                                        Source B etchellip)

                                                                        2

                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                        7

                                                                        Savvy Writers

                                                                        bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                        their argument

                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                        8

                                                                        Six-Part Approach

                                                                        bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                        9

                                                                        Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                        bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                        makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                        assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                        10

                                                                        Generalize

                                                                        bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                        bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                        bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                        bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                        11

                                                                        Converse

                                                                        bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                        bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                        bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                        12

                                                                        Finesse

                                                                        bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                        bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                        bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                        3

                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                        13

                                                                        Argue

                                                                        bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                        takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                        14

                                                                        Conclusion

                                                                        bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                        position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                        THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                        WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                        1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                        You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                        3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                        EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                        How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                        1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                        exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                        Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                        The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                        EXAMPLE

                                                                        Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                        If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                        1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                        concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                        Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                        Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                        Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                        1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                        2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                        3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                        4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                        EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                        1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                        2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                        earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                        3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                        4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                        5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                        ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                        6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                        7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                        8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                        his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                        work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                        your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                        develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                        bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                        1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                        Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                        Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                        An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                        Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                        And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                        10 Apostrophes

                                                                        Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                        Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                        Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                        Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                        Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                        Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                        The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                        The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                        For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                        Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                        There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                        Moses leadership

                                                                        Socrates wisdom

                                                                        Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                        Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                        8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                        Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                        Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                        Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                        Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                        Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                        Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                        Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                        Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                        Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                        6 Cannot

                                                                        One word not two (not can not)

                                                                        5 Affect and effect

                                                                        Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                        She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                        For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                        She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                        A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                        A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                        4 Intents and purposes

                                                                        Not intensive purposes

                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                        For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                        For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                        3 Plural or singular

                                                                        It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                        The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                        The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                        Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                        2 Principalprinciple

                                                                        Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                        Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                        Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                        Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                        principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                        principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                        1 Itsits

                                                                        Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                        The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                        The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                        Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                        Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                        Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                        (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                        When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                        Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                        Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                        These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                        1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                        2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                        3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                        4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                        5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                        5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                        7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                        8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                        9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                        10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                        Why it matters

                                                                        In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                        What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                        Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                        hink

                                                                        • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                        • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                          • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                          • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                            • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                            • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                              • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                              • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                • Antecedents
                                                                                • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                  • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                      • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                        • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                        • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                        • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                        • General Vocabulary
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                                                                                              • promptpdf
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                                                                                              • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                • SYNTAX
                                                                                                  • Improving writing
                                                                                                  • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                  • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                      • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                        • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                          • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                          • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                          • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                          • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                          • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                          • Argumentvocabdoc
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                                                                                                          • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                            • APSynandGenpdf
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                                                                                                              • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                              • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
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                                                                                                                  • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                    • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                    • 2006Bpdf

                                                                          Attitudes of self-importance impressive profound proud dignified lofty imperious confident egotistical peremptory bombastic sententious arrogant pompous stiff boastful exultant insolent domineering flippant saucy positive resolute haughty condescending challenging bold defiant contemptuous Attitudes of submission and timidity meek shy humble docile ashamed modest timid unpretentious respectful apologetic devout reverent servile obsequious groveling contrite obedient willing sycophantic fawning ingratiating deprecatory alarmed fearful terrified trembling wondering awed astounded shocked uncomprehending

                                                                          VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                                                          WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                                                          differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                                                          alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                                                          TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                                                          details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                                                          setting plot details point of view diction

                                                                          READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                                                          impact shock anger awareness connections

                                                                          contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                                                          Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                                                          Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                                                          but rather hywoamninnad

                                                                          ffiimonm

                                                                          snaafislaapffabuaain

                                                                          nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                                                          kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                                                          condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                                                          Contrast and Comparision

                                                                          or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                                                          Emphasis and Repetition

                                                                          or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                                                          ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                                                          Time

                                                                          oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                                                          rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                                                          in futur subsequently

                                                                          Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                                                          ound e de whenever op

                                                                          eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                                                          n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                                                          at the right before between

                                                                          in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                                                          R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                                                          in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                                                          TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                                                          Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                                                          words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                                                          ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                                                          1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                                                          Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                                                          2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                                                          Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                                                          Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                                                          additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                                                          Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                                                          Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                                                          Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                                                          Words that Identify

                                                                          that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                                                          that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                                                          but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                                                          Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                                                          Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                                                          Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                                                          Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                                                          CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                                                          seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                                                          Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                                                          EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                                                          Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                                                          Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                                                          SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                                                          in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                                                          previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                                                          finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                                                          to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                                                          Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                                          Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                                          EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                                          Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                                          Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                                          core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                                          Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                                          Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                                          As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                                          Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                                          other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                                          Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                                          Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                                          Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                                          In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                                          Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                                          (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                                          AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                                          from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                                          drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                                          principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                                          the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                                          15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                                          known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                                          of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                                          choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                                          itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                                          APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                          bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                                          guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                                          authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                                          sense of urgency specific examples

                                                                          LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                          bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                                          bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                                          ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                                          ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                                          Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                                          State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                                          THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                                          Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                                          1

                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                          1

                                                                          AP English Languageand Composition

                                                                          Synthesis Question

                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                          2

                                                                          Format

                                                                          bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                                          and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                                          position on topic addressed in sources

                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                          3

                                                                          Sources

                                                                          bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                                          other visual

                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                          4

                                                                          Types of Sources

                                                                          bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                          5

                                                                          Synthesize the Argument

                                                                          bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                                          bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                                          bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                                          bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                          6

                                                                          Distinctions

                                                                          bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                                          Source B etchellip)

                                                                          2

                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                          7

                                                                          Savvy Writers

                                                                          bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                          their argument

                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                          8

                                                                          Six-Part Approach

                                                                          bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                          9

                                                                          Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                          bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                          makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                          assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                          10

                                                                          Generalize

                                                                          bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                          bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                          bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                          bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                          11

                                                                          Converse

                                                                          bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                          bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                          bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                          12

                                                                          Finesse

                                                                          bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                          bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                          bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                          3

                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                          13

                                                                          Argue

                                                                          bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                          takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                          14

                                                                          Conclusion

                                                                          bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                          position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                          THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                          WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                          1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                          You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                          3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                          EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                          How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                          1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                          exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                          Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                          The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                          EXAMPLE

                                                                          Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                          If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                          1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                          concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                          Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                          Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                          Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                          1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                          2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                          3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                          4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                          EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                          1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                          2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                          earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                          3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                          4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                          5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                          ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                          6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                          7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                          8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                          his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                          work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                          your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                          develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                          bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                          1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                          Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                          Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                          An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                          Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                          And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                          10 Apostrophes

                                                                          Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                          Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                          Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                          Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                          Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                          Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                          The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                          The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                          For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                          Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                          There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                          Moses leadership

                                                                          Socrates wisdom

                                                                          Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                          Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                          8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                          Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                          Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                          Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                          Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                          Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                          Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                          Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                          Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                          Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                          6 Cannot

                                                                          One word not two (not can not)

                                                                          5 Affect and effect

                                                                          Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                          She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                          For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                          She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                          A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                          A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                          4 Intents and purposes

                                                                          Not intensive purposes

                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                          For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                          For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                          3 Plural or singular

                                                                          It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                          The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                          The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                          Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                          2 Principalprinciple

                                                                          Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                          Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                          Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                          Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                          principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                          principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                          1 Itsits

                                                                          Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                          The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                          The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                          Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                          Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                          Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                          (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                          When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                          Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                          Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                          These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                          1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                          2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                          3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                          4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                          5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                          5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                          7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                          8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                          9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                          10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                          Why it matters

                                                                          In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                          What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                          Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                          hink

                                                                          • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                          • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                            • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                            • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                              • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                              • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                  • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                  • Antecedents
                                                                                  • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                    • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                        • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                          • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                          • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                          • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                          • General Vocabulary
                                                                                            • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                            • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                            • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                              • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                • promptpdf
                                                                                                • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                  • SYNTAX
                                                                                                    • Improving writing
                                                                                                    • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                    • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                        • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                          • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                            • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                            • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                            • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                            • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                            • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                            • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                            • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                            • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                              • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                  • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                    • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                    • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                      • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                      • 2006Bpdf

                                                                            VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITING (and possible tools amp effects)

                                                                            WRITER OR NARRATOR evokes uses (weak) utilizes (weak) elicits manipulates alludes to twists ignites suggests hints at creates depicts conveys conjures up juxtaposes portrays

                                                                            differentiates maintains shows (weak) implies connotes explains elucidates emphasizes enunciates clarifies repudiates refutes tackles compares shifts changes evokes invokes delineates

                                                                            alters describes enhances paints prone to produces reveals ignites asserts stirs inspires explores dispels demonstrates constrain masters construe transcends solidifies

                                                                            TOOLS imagery syntax diction comic details tone

                                                                            details figurative lang foreshadowing symbols irony

                                                                            setting plot details point of view diction

                                                                            READER EFFECTS pathos intensity empathy laughter images

                                                                            impact shock anger awareness connections

                                                                            contrasts mood images imagery tones

                                                                            Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                                                            Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                                                            but rather hywoamninnad

                                                                            ffiimonm

                                                                            snaafislaapffabuaain

                                                                            nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                                                            kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                                                            condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                                                            Contrast and Comparision

                                                                            or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                                                            Emphasis and Repetition

                                                                            or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                                                            ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                                                            Time

                                                                            oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                                                            rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                                                            in futur subsequently

                                                                            Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                                                            ound e de whenever op

                                                                            eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                                                            n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                                                            at the right before between

                                                                            in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                                                            R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                                                            in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                                                            TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                                                            Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                                                            words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                                                            ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                                                            1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                                                            Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                                                            2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                                                            Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                                                            Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                                                            additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                                                            Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                                                            Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                                                            Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                                                            Words that Identify

                                                                            that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                                                            that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                                                            but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                                                            Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                                                            Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                                                            Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                                                            Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                                                            CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                                                            seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                                                            Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                                                            EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                                                            Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                                                            Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                                                            SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                                                            in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                                                            previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                                                            finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                                                            to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                                                            Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                                            Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                                            EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                                            Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                                            Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                                            core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                                            Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                                            Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                                            As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                                            Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                                            other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                                            Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                                            Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                                            Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                                            In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                                            Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                                            (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                                            AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                                            from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                                            drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                                            principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                                            the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                                            15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                                            known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                                            of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                                            choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                                            itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                                            APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                            bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                                            guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                                            authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                                            sense of urgency specific examples

                                                                            LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                            bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                                            bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                                            ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                                            ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                                            Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                                            State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                                            THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                                            Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                                            1

                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                            1

                                                                            AP English Languageand Composition

                                                                            Synthesis Question

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                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                            2

                                                                            Format

                                                                            bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                                            and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                                            position on topic addressed in sources

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                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                            3

                                                                            Sources

                                                                            bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                                            other visual

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                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                            4

                                                                            Types of Sources

                                                                            bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                            5

                                                                            Synthesize the Argument

                                                                            bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                                            bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                                            bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                                            bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                            6

                                                                            Distinctions

                                                                            bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                                            Source B etchellip)

                                                                            2

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                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                            7

                                                                            Savvy Writers

                                                                            bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                            their argument

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                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                            8

                                                                            Six-Part Approach

                                                                            bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

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                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                            9

                                                                            Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                            bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                            makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                            assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                            10

                                                                            Generalize

                                                                            bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                            bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                            bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                            bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                            11

                                                                            Converse

                                                                            bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                            bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                            bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                            12

                                                                            Finesse

                                                                            bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                            bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                            bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                            3

                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                            13

                                                                            Argue

                                                                            bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                            takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                            14

                                                                            Conclusion

                                                                            bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                            position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                            THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                            WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                            1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                            You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                            3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                            EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                            How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                            1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                            exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                            Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                            The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                            EXAMPLE

                                                                            Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                            If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                            1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                            concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                            Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                            Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                            Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                            1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                            2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                            3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                            4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                            EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                            1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                            2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                            earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                            3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                            4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                            5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                            ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                            6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                            7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                            8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                            his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                            work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                            your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                            develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                            bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                            1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                            Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                            Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                            An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                            Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                            And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                            10 Apostrophes

                                                                            Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                            Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                            Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                            Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                            Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                            Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                            The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                            The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                            For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                            Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                            There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                            Moses leadership

                                                                            Socrates wisdom

                                                                            Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                            Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                            8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                            Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                            Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                            Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                            Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                            Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                            Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                            Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                            Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                            Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                            6 Cannot

                                                                            One word not two (not can not)

                                                                            5 Affect and effect

                                                                            Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                            She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                            For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                            She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                            A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                            A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                            4 Intents and purposes

                                                                            Not intensive purposes

                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                            For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                            For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                            3 Plural or singular

                                                                            It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                            The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                            The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                            Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                            2 Principalprinciple

                                                                            Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                            Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                            Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                            Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                            principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                            principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                            1 Itsits

                                                                            Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                            The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                            The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                            Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                            Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                            Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                            (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                            When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                            Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                            Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                            These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                            1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                            2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                            3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                            4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                            5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                            5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                            7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                            8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                            9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                            10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                            Why it matters

                                                                            In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                            What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                            Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                            hink

                                                                            • AP Review coverdoc
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                                                                                • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                  • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                  • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                    • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                    • Antecedents
                                                                                    • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                      • Vocabulary in context
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                                                                                            • General Vocabulary
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                                                                                                    • SYNTAX
                                                                                                      • Improving writing
                                                                                                      • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                      • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                          • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                            • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                              • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                              • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                              • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                              • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                              • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                              • Argumentvocabdoc
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                                                                                                              • Logical Fallaciesdoc
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                                                                                                                  • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                  • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                    • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
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                                                                                                                      • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                        • 2005Bpdf
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                                                                              Linking words and phrases The following words and phrases will help you show how one idea relates to another They help create flow

                                                                              Addition and Conclusion amoinliafuathtoainfurthermore to bino

                                                                              but rather hywoamninnad

                                                                              ffiimonm

                                                                              snaafislaapffabuaain

                                                                              nd equally important in the same way oreover much more interesting then too f even greater appeal next consequently fact just as surely thus

                                                                              kewies at the outset again s a result as I have said for rther more specifically inasmuch as lso undoubtedly so that erefore indeed it is certain hence o in truth for this reason ccordingly last[lastly] under these conditions other words over and above in addition to

                                                                              condlude another esides finally in summary conclusion second[secondly] to summarize n the whole at the same time

                                                                              Contrast and Comparision

                                                                              or owever conversely nor et although neither hereas though either n the contrary as quite as evident s if on the other hand equally important uch more interesting as though still otwithstanding in spite of of even greater appeal contrast to otherwise likewise evertheless similarly in the manner t the same time just as surely for all that espite

                                                                              Emphasis and Repetition

                                                                              or for example in particular or instance in other words in fact n the same way that is to say certainly ndeed undoubtedly as I have said

                                                                              ore specifically of course to be sure n the account thus therefore aturally obviously emphatically ost important in truth

                                                                              Time

                                                                              oon immediatly when ot long after instantly whenever t length at this instant next t last suddenly as naly now once ome time without delay since ter in the first place occasionally fterwards forthwith henceforward resentaly straitaway then

                                                                              rom this time on quickly meanwhile rom time to time at this point thereupon few minutes later after in the meantime efore formerly sometimes ntil yesterday in a moment t present later in the day shortly ll of a sudden since then whereupon the futur while during

                                                                              in futur subsequently

                                                                              Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                                                              ound e de whenever op

                                                                              eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                                                              n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                                                              at the right before between

                                                                              in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                                                              R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                                                              in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                                                              TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                                                              Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                                                              words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                                                              ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                                                              1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                                                              Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                                                              2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                                                              Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                                                              Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                                                              additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                                                              Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                                                              Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                                                              Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                                                              Words that Identify

                                                                              that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                                                              that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                                                              but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                                                              Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                                                              Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                                                              Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                                                              Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                                                              CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                                                              seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                                                              Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                                                              EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                                                              Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                                                              Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                                                              SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                                                              in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                                                              previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                                                              finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                                                              to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                                                              Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                                              Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                                              EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                                              Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                                              Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                                              core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                                              Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                                              Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                                              As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                                              Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                                              other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                                              Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                                              Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                                              Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                                              In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                                              Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                                              (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                                              AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                                              from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                                              drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                                              principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                                              the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                                              15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                                              known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                                              of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                                              choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                                              itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                                              APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                              bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                                              guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                                              authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                                              sense of urgency specific examples

                                                                              LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                              bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                                              bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                                              ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                                              ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                                              Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                                              State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                                              THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                                              Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                                              1

                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                              1

                                                                              AP English Languageand Composition

                                                                              Synthesis Question

                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                              2

                                                                              Format

                                                                              bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                                              and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                                              position on topic addressed in sources

                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                              3

                                                                              Sources

                                                                              bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                                              other visual

                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                              4

                                                                              Types of Sources

                                                                              bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                              5

                                                                              Synthesize the Argument

                                                                              bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                                              bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                                              bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                                              bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                              6

                                                                              Distinctions

                                                                              bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                                              Source B etchellip)

                                                                              2

                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                              7

                                                                              Savvy Writers

                                                                              bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                              their argument

                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                              8

                                                                              Six-Part Approach

                                                                              bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                              9

                                                                              Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                              bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                              makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                              assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                              10

                                                                              Generalize

                                                                              bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                              bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                              bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                              bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                              11

                                                                              Converse

                                                                              bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                              bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                              bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                              12

                                                                              Finesse

                                                                              bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                              bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                              bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                              3

                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                              13

                                                                              Argue

                                                                              bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                              takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                              14

                                                                              Conclusion

                                                                              bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                              position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                              THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                              WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                              1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                              You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                              3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                              EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                              How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                              1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                              exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                              Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                              The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                              EXAMPLE

                                                                              Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                              If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                              1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                              concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                              Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                              Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                              Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                              1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                              2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                              3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                              4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                              EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                              1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                              2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                              earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                              3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                              4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                              5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                              ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                              6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                              7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                              8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                              his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                              work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                              your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                              develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                              bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                              1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                              Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                              Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                              An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                              Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                              And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                              10 Apostrophes

                                                                              Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                              Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                              Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                              Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                              Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                              Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                              The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                              The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                              For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                              Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                              There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                              Moses leadership

                                                                              Socrates wisdom

                                                                              Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                              Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                              8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                              Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                              Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                              Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                              Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                              Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                              Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                              Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                              Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                              Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                              6 Cannot

                                                                              One word not two (not can not)

                                                                              5 Affect and effect

                                                                              Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                              She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                              For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                              She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                              A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                              A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                              4 Intents and purposes

                                                                              Not intensive purposes

                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                              For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                              For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                              3 Plural or singular

                                                                              It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                              The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                              The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                              Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                              2 Principalprinciple

                                                                              Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                              Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                              Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                              Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                              principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                              principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                              1 Itsits

                                                                              Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                              The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                              The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                              Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                              Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                              Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                              (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                              When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                              Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                              Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                              These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                              1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                              2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                              3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                              4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                              5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                              5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                              7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                              8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                              9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                              10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                              Why it matters

                                                                              In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                              What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                              Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                              hink

                                                                              • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                              • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                  • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                  • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                    • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                    • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                      • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                      • Antecedents
                                                                                      • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                        • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                            • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                              • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                              • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                              • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                              • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                  • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                    • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                    • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                    • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                    • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                    • promptpdf
                                                                                                    • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                    • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                      • SYNTAX
                                                                                                        • Improving writing
                                                                                                        • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                        • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                            • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                              • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                  • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                    • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                    • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                    • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                      • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                        • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                        • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                          • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                          • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                in futur subsequently

                                                                                Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                                                                ound e de whenever op

                                                                                eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                                                                n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                                                                at the right before between

                                                                                in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                                                                R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                                                                in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                                                                TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                                                                Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                                                                words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                                                                ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                                                                1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                                                                Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                                                                2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                                                                Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                                                                Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                                                                additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                                                                Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                                                                Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                                                                Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                                                                Words that Identify

                                                                                that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                                                                that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                                                                but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                                                                Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                                                                Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                                                                Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                                                                Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                                                                CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                                                                seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                                                                Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                                                                EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                                                                Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                                                                Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                                                                SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                                                                in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                                                                previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                                                                finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                                                                to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                                                                Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                                                Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                                                EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                                                Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                                                Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                                                core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                                                Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                                                Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                                                As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                                                Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                                                other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                                                Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                                                Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                                                Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                                                In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                                                Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                                                (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                                                AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                                                from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                                                drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                                                principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                                                the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                                                15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                                                known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                                                of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                                                choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                                                itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                                                APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                                bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                                                guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                                                authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                                                sense of urgency specific examples

                                                                                LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                                bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                                                bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                                                ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                                                ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                                                Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                                                State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                                                THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                                                Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                                                1

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                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                1

                                                                                AP English Languageand Composition

                                                                                Synthesis Question

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                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                2

                                                                                Format

                                                                                bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                                                and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                                                position on topic addressed in sources

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                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                3

                                                                                Sources

                                                                                bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                                                other visual

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                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                4

                                                                                Types of Sources

                                                                                bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

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                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                5

                                                                                Synthesize the Argument

                                                                                bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                                                bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                                                bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                                                bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

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                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                6

                                                                                Distinctions

                                                                                bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                                                Source B etchellip)

                                                                                2

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                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                7

                                                                                Savvy Writers

                                                                                bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                                their argument

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                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                8

                                                                                Six-Part Approach

                                                                                bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

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                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                9

                                                                                Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                                bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                                makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                                assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                10

                                                                                Generalize

                                                                                bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                                bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                                bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                                bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

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                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                11

                                                                                Converse

                                                                                bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                                bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                                bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

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                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                12

                                                                                Finesse

                                                                                bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                                bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                                bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                                3

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                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                13

                                                                                Argue

                                                                                bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                                takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                14

                                                                                Conclusion

                                                                                bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                                position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                                THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                                WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                                1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                                You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                                3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                                EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                                How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                                1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                                exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                                Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                                The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                                EXAMPLE

                                                                                Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                                If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                                1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                                concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                                Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                                Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                                Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                                1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                                2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                                3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                                4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                                EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                                1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                                2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                                earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                                3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                                4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                                5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                                ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                                6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                                7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                                8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                                his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                                work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                                your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                                develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                                bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                                1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                                Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                                Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                                An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                                Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                                And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                                10 Apostrophes

                                                                                Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                                Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                                There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                                Moses leadership

                                                                                Socrates wisdom

                                                                                Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                                Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                                8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                                Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                6 Cannot

                                                                                One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                5 Affect and effect

                                                                                Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                Not intensive purposes

                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                3 Plural or singular

                                                                                It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                1 Itsits

                                                                                Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                Why it matters

                                                                                In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                hink

                                                                                • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                  • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                  • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                    • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                    • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                      • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                      • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                        • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                        • Antecedents
                                                                                        • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                          • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                              • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                  • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                  • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                  • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                    • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                      • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                      • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                      • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                      • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                      • promptpdf
                                                                                                      • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                      • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                        • SYNTAX
                                                                                                          • Improving writing
                                                                                                          • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                          • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                              • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                  • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                  • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                  • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                  • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                  • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                  • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                  • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                  • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                    • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                      • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                      • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                      • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                        • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                          • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                          • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                            • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                            • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                  Place from where beyond over in the middle around here there near i

                                                                                  ound e de whenever op

                                                                                  eason rpose andi at a conditions se for this purpose is way hpt ount a tanding w y on account of owing to accordingly

                                                                                  n front of in the distance farther here and there above below

                                                                                  at the right before between

                                                                                  in the foregr on this sid besiposite

                                                                                  R Condition Pu Result nevitably inasmuch as in order ths a result under these becau

                                                                                  in th sinceence ifgt thus rovided that so that for this reason herefore granted that on thaat accdmittedly notwiths in case that ith a view to unless consequentl

                                                                                  TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                                                                  Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                                                                  words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                                                                  ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                                                                  1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                                                                  Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                                                                  2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                                                                  Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                                                                  Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                                                                  additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                                                                  Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                                                                  Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                                                                  Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                                                                  Words that Identify

                                                                                  that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                                                                  that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                                                                  but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                                                                  Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                                                                  Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                                                                  Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                                                                  Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                                                                  CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                                                                  seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                                                                  Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                                                                  EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                                                                  Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                                                                  Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                                                                  SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                                                                  in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                                                                  previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                                                                  finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                                                                  to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                                                                  Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                                                  Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                                                  EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                                                  Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                                                  Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                                                  core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                                                  Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                                                  Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                                                  As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                                                  Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                                                  other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                                                  Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                                                  Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                                                  Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                                                  In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                                                  Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                                                  (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                                                  AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                                                  from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                                                  drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                                                  principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                                                  the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                                                  15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                                                  known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                                                  of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                                                  choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                                                  itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                                                  APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                                  bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                                                  guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                                                  authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                                                  sense of urgency specific examples

                                                                                  LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                                  bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                                                  bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                                                  ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                                                  ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                                                  Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                                                  State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                                                  THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                                                  Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                                                  1

                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                  1

                                                                                  AP English Languageand Composition

                                                                                  Synthesis Question

                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                  2

                                                                                  Format

                                                                                  bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                                                  and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                                                  position on topic addressed in sources

                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                  3

                                                                                  Sources

                                                                                  bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                                                  other visual

                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                  4

                                                                                  Types of Sources

                                                                                  bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                  5

                                                                                  Synthesize the Argument

                                                                                  bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                                                  bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                                                  bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                                                  bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                  6

                                                                                  Distinctions

                                                                                  bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                                                  Source B etchellip)

                                                                                  2

                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                  7

                                                                                  Savvy Writers

                                                                                  bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                                  their argument

                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                  8

                                                                                  Six-Part Approach

                                                                                  bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                  9

                                                                                  Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                                  bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                                  makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                                  assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                  10

                                                                                  Generalize

                                                                                  bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                                  bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                                  bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                                  bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                  11

                                                                                  Converse

                                                                                  bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                                  bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                                  bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                  12

                                                                                  Finesse

                                                                                  bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                                  bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                                  bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                                  3

                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                  13

                                                                                  Argue

                                                                                  bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                                  takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                  14

                                                                                  Conclusion

                                                                                  bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                                  position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                                  THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                                  WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                                  1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                                  You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                                  3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                                  EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                                  How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                                  1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                                  exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                                  Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                                  The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                                  EXAMPLE

                                                                                  Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                                  If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                                  1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                                  concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                                  Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                                  Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                                  Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                                  1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                                  2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                                  3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                                  4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                                  EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                                  1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                                  2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                                  earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                                  3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                                  4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                                  5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                                  ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                                  6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                                  7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                                  8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                                  his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                                  work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                                  your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                                  develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                                  bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                                  1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                                  Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                                  Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                                  An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                                  Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                                  And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                                  10 Apostrophes

                                                                                  Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                  Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                  Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                  Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                  Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                  Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                  The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                  The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                  For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                                  Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                                  There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                                  Moses leadership

                                                                                  Socrates wisdom

                                                                                  Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                                  Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                                  8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                                  Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                  Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                  Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                  Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                  Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                  Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                  Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                  Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                  Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                  6 Cannot

                                                                                  One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                  5 Affect and effect

                                                                                  Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                  She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                  For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                  She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                  A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                  A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                  4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                  Not intensive purposes

                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                  For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                  For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                  3 Plural or singular

                                                                                  It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                  The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                  The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                  Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                  2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                  Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                  Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                  Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                  Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                  principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                  principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                  1 Itsits

                                                                                  Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                  The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                  The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                  Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                  Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                  Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                  (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                  When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                  Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                  Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                  These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                  1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                  2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                  3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                  4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                  5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                  5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                  7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                  8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                  9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                  10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                  Why it matters

                                                                                  In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                  What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                  Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                  hink

                                                                                  • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                  • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                    • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                    • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                      • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                      • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                        • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                        • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                          • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                          • Antecedents
                                                                                          • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                            • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                  • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                  • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                  • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                  • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                    • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                    • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                    • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                      • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                        • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                        • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                        • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                        • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                        • promptpdf
                                                                                                        • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                        • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                          • SYNTAX
                                                                                                            • Improving writing
                                                                                                            • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                            • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                  • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                    • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                    • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                    • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                    • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                    • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                    • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                    • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                    • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                      • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                        • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                        • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                        • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                          • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                            • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                            • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                              • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                              • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                    TRANSITIONS An essay without effective transitions is like a series of isolated islands The reader will struggle to get from one point to the next Use transitions as bridges between your ideas What are transitions and how are they used

                                                                                    Transitions are phrases or words used to connect one idea to the next Transitions are used by the author to help the reader progress from one significant idea to the next in other

                                                                                    words they make an essay coherent Transitions also show the relationship between the main idea and the support the author gives for those

                                                                                    ideas within a paragraph (or even within a sentence) Transitions have a variety of specific uses

                                                                                    1) Transitions within paragraphs Within a single paragraph transitions such as single words or short phrases help the reader anticipate what will come next The transition may signal an additional or similar piece of information or it may prepare the reader for a change or exception to previously stated information For example

                                                                                    Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art

                                                                                    2) Transitions between paragraphs Transitions between paragraphs serve as connections between old and new information A word a phrase or a sentence signals to the reader that something different is coming and transitions the reader from old to new information For example

                                                                                    Mary Cassatt one of the few female Impressionist painters lived in France although she was of American descent Unlike her fellow painters who chose landscapes as their primary medium Cassatts main subjects were her immediate family In fact her nieces and nephews were captured in many of her most famous works of art For instance the painting Mother with Child shows Cassatts sister bathing her child This painting not only illustrates Cassatts use of her family as subjects but also highlights the theme of mother and child The closeness of the mother with her child remains a constant theme of Cassatts painting and sketching throughout the Impressionist period

                                                                                    Note The first sentence of the second paragraph draws the readers attention to a new idea a specific example in this case The following sentence repeats a familiar theme (family members) from the first paragraph and then introduces a new idea (mother and child) ADDITIVE TRANSITIONS These show addition introduction or similarity to other ideas Words that show Addition relationships

                                                                                    additionally also moreover not to mention in addition furthermore further and too either (neither) besides not only but also as well or alternatively nor on the other hand in fact as a matter of fact to say nothing of actually indeed let alone much less

                                                                                    Words that Introduce such as for example for instance as like especially particularly in particular notably including as an illustration to illustrate

                                                                                    Words that Reference speaking about as for considering concerning regarding on the subject of with regard to the fact that

                                                                                    Words that show Similarity similarly likewise in the same way in a like manner by the same token equally

                                                                                    Words that Identify

                                                                                    that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                                                                    that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                                                                    but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                                                                    Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                                                                    Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                                                                    Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                                                                    Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                                                                    CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                                                                    seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                                                                    Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                                                                    EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                                                                    Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                                                                    Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                                                                    SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                                                                    in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                                                                    previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                                                                    finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                                                                    to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                                                                    Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                                                    Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                                                    EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                                                    Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                                                    Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                                                    core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                                                    Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                                                    Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                                                    As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                                                    Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                                                    other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                                                    Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                                                    Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                                                    Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                                                    In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                                                    Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                                                    (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                                                    AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                                                    from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                                                    drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                                                    principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                                                    the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                                                    15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                                                    known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                                                    of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                                                    choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                                                    itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                                                    APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                                    bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                                                    guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                                                    authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                                                    sense of urgency specific examples

                                                                                    LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                                    bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                                                    bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                                                    ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                                                    ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                                                    Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                                                    State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                                                    THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                                                    Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                                                    1

                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                    1

                                                                                    AP English Languageand Composition

                                                                                    Synthesis Question

                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                    2

                                                                                    Format

                                                                                    bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                                                    and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                                                    position on topic addressed in sources

                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                    3

                                                                                    Sources

                                                                                    bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                                                    other visual

                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                    4

                                                                                    Types of Sources

                                                                                    bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                    5

                                                                                    Synthesize the Argument

                                                                                    bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                                                    bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                                                    bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                                                    bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                    6

                                                                                    Distinctions

                                                                                    bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                                                    Source B etchellip)

                                                                                    2

                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                    7

                                                                                    Savvy Writers

                                                                                    bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                                    their argument

                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                    8

                                                                                    Six-Part Approach

                                                                                    bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                    9

                                                                                    Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                                    bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                                    makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                                    assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                    10

                                                                                    Generalize

                                                                                    bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                                    bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                                    bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                                    bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                    11

                                                                                    Converse

                                                                                    bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                                    bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                                    bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                    12

                                                                                    Finesse

                                                                                    bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                                    bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                                    bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                                    3

                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                    13

                                                                                    Argue

                                                                                    bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                                    takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                    14

                                                                                    Conclusion

                                                                                    bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                                    position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                                    THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                                    WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                                    1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                                    You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                                    3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                                    EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                                    How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                                    1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                                    exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                                    Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                                    The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                                    EXAMPLE

                                                                                    Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                                    If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                                    1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                                    concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                                    Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                                    Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                                    Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                                    1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                                    2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                                    3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                                    4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                                    EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                                    1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                                    2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                                    earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                                    3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                                    4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                                    5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                                    ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                                    6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                                    7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                                    8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                                    his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                                    work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                                    your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                                    develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                                    bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                                    1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                                    Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                                    Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                                    An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                                    Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                                    And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                                    10 Apostrophes

                                                                                    Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                    Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                    Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                    Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                    Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                    Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                    The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                    The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                    For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                                    Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                                    There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                                    Moses leadership

                                                                                    Socrates wisdom

                                                                                    Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                                    Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                                    8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                                    Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                    Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                    Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                    Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                    Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                    Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                    Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                    Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                    Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                    6 Cannot

                                                                                    One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                    5 Affect and effect

                                                                                    Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                    She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                    For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                    She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                    A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                    A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                    4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                    Not intensive purposes

                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                    For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                    For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                    3 Plural or singular

                                                                                    It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                    The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                    The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                    Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                    2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                    Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                    Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                    Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                    Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                    principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                    principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                    1 Itsits

                                                                                    Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                    The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                    The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                    Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                    Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                    Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                    (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                    When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                    Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                    Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                    These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                    1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                    2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                    3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                    4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                    5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                    5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                    7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                    8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                    9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                    10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                    Why it matters

                                                                                    In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                    What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                    Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                    hink

                                                                                    • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                    • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                      • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                      • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                        • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                        • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                          • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                          • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                            • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                            • Antecedents
                                                                                            • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                              • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                  • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                    • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                    • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                    • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                    • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                      • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                      • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                      • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                        • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                          • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                          • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                          • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                          • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                          • promptpdf
                                                                                                          • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                          • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                            • SYNTAX
                                                                                                              • Improving writing
                                                                                                              • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                              • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                  • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                    • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                      • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                      • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                      • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                      • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                      • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                      • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                      • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                      • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                        • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                          • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                          • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                          • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                            • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                              • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                              • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                      that is namely specifically thus Words that show Clarification

                                                                                      that is (to say) in other words put another way ADVERSATIVE TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal conflict contradiction concession or dismissal Conflict

                                                                                      but however in contrast by way of contrast (and) yet when in fact while whereas conversely on the other hand though (final position) still

                                                                                      Emphasis even more above all indeed more importantly besides surely indeed in fact truly

                                                                                      Concession but even so however still yet nevertheless nonetheless although though even though on the other hand despite in spite of regardless notwithstanding be that as it may granted admittedly albeit

                                                                                      Dismissal either way in either case in either event all the same in any case in any event at any rate

                                                                                      Replacement (or) at least (or) rather instead

                                                                                      CAUSAL TRANSITIONS These transitions signal causeeffect and reasonresultCauseReason

                                                                                      seeing that since as inasmuch as forasmuch as because due to in view of owing to for the (simple) reason that for in that

                                                                                      Condition if in case provided providing on (the) condition in the event that given that granted granting asso long as even if only if unless

                                                                                      EffectResult so that so so much (so) that for this reason as a result because therefore consequently as a consequence thus hence in consequence accordingly

                                                                                      Purpose so so as to so that in order to in order that with this in mind with this intention in the hope that for the purpose of to the end that for fear that lest

                                                                                      Consequence then if so in that case under those circumstances if not otherwise

                                                                                      SEQUENTIAL TRANSITIONS These transitions are used to signal a chronological or logical sequence Numerical

                                                                                      in the (first second etc) place initially secondly at first to start with to begin with for a start first of all Continuation

                                                                                      previously afterwards eventually subsequently next then Conclusion

                                                                                      finally eventually at last in the end at last last but not least as a final point lastly Summation

                                                                                      to sum up given these points therefore consequently thus hence on the whole altogether in all all in all overall in short in a word truly

                                                                                      Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                                                      Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                                                      EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                                                      Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                                                      Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                                                      core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                                                      Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                                                      Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                                                      As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                                                      Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                                                      other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                                                      Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                                                      Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                                                      Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                                                      In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                                                      Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                                                      (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                                                      AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                                                      from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                                                      drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                                                      principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                                                      the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                                                      15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                                                      known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                                                      of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                                                      choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                                                      itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                                                      APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                                      bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                                                      guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                                                      authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                                                      sense of urgency specific examples

                                                                                      LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                                      bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                                                      bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                                                      ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                                                      ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                                                      Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                                                      State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                                                      THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                                                      Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                                                      1

                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                      1

                                                                                      AP English Languageand Composition

                                                                                      Synthesis Question

                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                      2

                                                                                      Format

                                                                                      bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                                                      and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                                                      position on topic addressed in sources

                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                      3

                                                                                      Sources

                                                                                      bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                                                      other visual

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                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                      4

                                                                                      Types of Sources

                                                                                      bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                      5

                                                                                      Synthesize the Argument

                                                                                      bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                                                      bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                                                      bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                                                      bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                      6

                                                                                      Distinctions

                                                                                      bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                                                      Source B etchellip)

                                                                                      2

                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                      7

                                                                                      Savvy Writers

                                                                                      bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                                      their argument

                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                      8

                                                                                      Six-Part Approach

                                                                                      bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                      9

                                                                                      Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                                      bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                                      makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                                      assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                      10

                                                                                      Generalize

                                                                                      bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                                      bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                                      bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                                      bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                      11

                                                                                      Converse

                                                                                      bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                                      bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                                      bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                      12

                                                                                      Finesse

                                                                                      bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                                      bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                                      bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                                      3

                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                      13

                                                                                      Argue

                                                                                      bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                                      takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                      14

                                                                                      Conclusion

                                                                                      bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                                      position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                                      THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                                      WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                                      1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                                      You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                                      3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                                      EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                                      How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                                      1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                                      exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                                      Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                                      The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                                      EXAMPLE

                                                                                      Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                                      If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                                      1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                                      concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                                      Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                                      Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                                      Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                                      1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                                      2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                                      3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                                      4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                                      EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                                      1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                                      2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                                      earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                                      3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                                      4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                                      5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                                      ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                                      6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                                      7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                                      8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                                      his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                                      work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                                      your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                                      develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                                      bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                                      1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                                      Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                                      Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                                      An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                                      Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                                      And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                                      10 Apostrophes

                                                                                      Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                      Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                      Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                      Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                      Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                      Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                      The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                      The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                      For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                                      Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                                      There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                                      Moses leadership

                                                                                      Socrates wisdom

                                                                                      Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                                      Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                                      8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                                      Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                      Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                      Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                      Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                      Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                      Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                      Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                      Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                      Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                      6 Cannot

                                                                                      One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                      5 Affect and effect

                                                                                      Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                      She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                      For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                      She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                      A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                      A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                      4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                      Not intensive purposes

                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                      For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                      For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                      3 Plural or singular

                                                                                      It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                      The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                      The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                      Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                      2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                      Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                      Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                      Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                      Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                      principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                      principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                      1 Itsits

                                                                                      Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                      The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                      The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                      Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                      Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                      Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                      (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                      When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                      Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                      Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                      These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                      1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                      2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                      3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                      4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                      5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                      5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                      7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                      8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                      9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                      10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                      Why it matters

                                                                                      In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                      What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                      Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                      hink

                                                                                      • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                      • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                        • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                        • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                          • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                          • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                            • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                            • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                              • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                              • Antecedents
                                                                                              • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                    • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                      • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                      • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                      • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                      • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                        • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                        • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                        • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                          • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                            • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                            • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                            • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                            • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                            • promptpdf
                                                                                                            • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                            • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                              • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                • Improving writing
                                                                                                                • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                    • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                      • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                        • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                        • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                        • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                        • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                        • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                        • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                        • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                        • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                          • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                            • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                            • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                            • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                              • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                  • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                  • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                        Embedding Quotes The best way to include quotes is by integrating them smoothly into your own sentences (ie embedding incorporating) Quotation = any word phrase sentence or passage that you would copy from the story Bad ldquoThe author uses the words ldquorigid arrested and thinningrdquo to show his opinion Better ldquoThe snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place in the ldquothinningrdquo light of the desertrdquo Better ldquoIn recognizing ldquothe otherrdquo who ldquolay rigid and was ldquoas suddenly arrestedrdquo the author reveals the equality with which he holds the rattler in the pursuit of self-defenserdquo If you change the form of the quote or add words of your own to the original citation you must enclose those words in brackets to show your reader what you did Ex The snake ldquolay rigidrdquo ldquoarrestedrdquo in time and place as the light ldquo[thinned]rdquo in the desert

                                                                                        Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                                                        EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                                                        Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                                                        Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                                                        core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                                                        Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                                                        Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                                                        As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                                                        Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                                                        other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                                                        Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                                                        Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                                                        Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                                                        In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                                                        Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                                                        (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                                                        AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                                                        from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                                                        drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                                                        principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                                                        the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                                                        15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                                                        known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                                                        of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                                                        choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                                                        itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                                                        APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                                        bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                                                        guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                                                        authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                                                        sense of urgency specific examples

                                                                                        LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                                        bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                                                        bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                                                        ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                                                        ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                                                        Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                                                        State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                                                        THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                                                        Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                                                        1

                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                        1

                                                                                        AP English Languageand Composition

                                                                                        Synthesis Question

                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                        2

                                                                                        Format

                                                                                        bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                                                        and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                                                        position on topic addressed in sources

                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                        3

                                                                                        Sources

                                                                                        bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                                                        other visual

                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                        4

                                                                                        Types of Sources

                                                                                        bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                        5

                                                                                        Synthesize the Argument

                                                                                        bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                                                        bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                                                        bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                                                        bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                        6

                                                                                        Distinctions

                                                                                        bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                                                        Source B etchellip)

                                                                                        2

                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                        7

                                                                                        Savvy Writers

                                                                                        bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                                        their argument

                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                        8

                                                                                        Six-Part Approach

                                                                                        bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                        9

                                                                                        Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                                        bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                                        makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                                        assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                        10

                                                                                        Generalize

                                                                                        bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                                        bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                                        bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                                        bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                        11

                                                                                        Converse

                                                                                        bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                                        bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                                        bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                        12

                                                                                        Finesse

                                                                                        bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                                        bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                                        bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                                        3

                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                        13

                                                                                        Argue

                                                                                        bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                                        takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                        14

                                                                                        Conclusion

                                                                                        bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                                        position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                                        THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                                        WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                                        1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                                        You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                                        3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                                        EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                                        How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                                        1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                                        exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                                        Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                                        The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                                        EXAMPLE

                                                                                        Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                                        If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                                        1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                                        concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                                        Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                                        Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                                        Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                                        1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                                        2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                                        3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                                        4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                                        EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                                        1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                                        2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                                        earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                                        3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                                        4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                                        5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                                        ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                                        6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                                        7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                                        8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                                        his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                                        work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                                        your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                                        develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                                        bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                                        1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                                        Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                                        Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                                        An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                                        Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                                        And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                                        10 Apostrophes

                                                                                        Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                        Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                        Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                        Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                        Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                        Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                        The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                        The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                        For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                                        Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                                        There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                                        Moses leadership

                                                                                        Socrates wisdom

                                                                                        Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                                        Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                                        8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                                        Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                        Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                        Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                        Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                        Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                        Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                        Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                        Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                        Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                        6 Cannot

                                                                                        One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                        5 Affect and effect

                                                                                        Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                        She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                        For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                        She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                        A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                        A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                        4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                        Not intensive purposes

                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                        For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                        For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                        3 Plural or singular

                                                                                        It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                        The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                        The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                        Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                        2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                        Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                        Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                        Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                        Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                        principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                        principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                        1 Itsits

                                                                                        Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                        The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                        The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                        Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                        Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                        Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                        (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                        When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                        Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                        Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                        These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                        1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                        2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                        3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                        4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                        5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                        5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                        7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                        8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                        9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                        10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                        Why it matters

                                                                                        In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                        What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                        Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                        hink

                                                                                        • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                        • APMCPacketpdf
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                                                                                          • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                            • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                            • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                              • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                              • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                • Antecedents
                                                                                                • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                  • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                      • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                        • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
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                                                                                                        • General Vocabulary
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                                                                                                              • promptpdf
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                                                                                                              • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                  • Improving writing
                                                                                                                  • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                  • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                      • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                        • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                          • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                          • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                          • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                          • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                          • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                          • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                          • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                          • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                            • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                              • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                              • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                              • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                  • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                  • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                    • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                    • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                          Argumentation The ability to advance sound argument is an important skill not only for the AP exam but in everyday life Becoming skilled in clear logical reasoning can aid you in seeing faulty arguments in the news advertising business political speeches and personal relationships Argumentation advances a controversial point ndash one that not everyone will be inclined to accept Arguable assertions may be supported with several kinds of evidence Without evidence writers have no argument Specific information as discussed gives weight to general or abstract assertions In addition as critical writers and readers students should consider the following sorts of evidence

                                                                                          EVIDENCE FOR ARGUMENT Facts verifiable statements Statistics facts expressed in numbers Examples specific cases covered by an assertion Expert Opinion judgments of authority Appeals to readersrsquo beliefs and needs

                                                                                          Kinds of Evidence Facts ndash statements that can be verified by checking the right sources

                                                                                          Richard Caswell was the first governor of North Carolina Nuclear reactors used in the United States consist of three main parts the reactor the

                                                                                          core and the control rods Statistics ndash facts that use numbers

                                                                                          Each year children in the United States consume juice drinks in about four billion of those little individual boxes which because they are not recyclable end up in landfills and take about 300 years to decompose

                                                                                          Examples ndash specific instances that illustrate a point The student-written paragraph under ldquoexpert opinionrdquo (below) has an instance of example Expert Opinion ndash recognized authorities in a given field who can speak knowledgeably and reliably on the subject

                                                                                          As a professional writer for twenty-five years Dorothy Canfield Fisher has earned her right to be an authority on theme writing She targets the beginning writer by assuring him that almost all authors are at first stymied One should just start to write Continue to write as much as one can is her advice When I am at a loss for ideas I also write everything I can and then I go back and use bits and pieces

                                                                                          Appeals to beliefs or needs ndash asks readers to accept assertions because they coincide with something the readers know or believe to be true They are generally used in combination with

                                                                                          other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                                                          Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                                                          Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                                                          Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                                                          In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                                                          Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                                                          (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                                                          AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                                                          from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                                                          drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                                                          principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                                                          the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                                                          15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                                                          known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                                                          of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                                                          choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                                                          itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                                                          APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                                          bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                                                          guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                                                          authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                                                          sense of urgency specific examples

                                                                                          LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                                          bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                                                          bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                                                          ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                                                          ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                                                          Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                                                          State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                                                          THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                                                          Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                                                          1

                                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                          1

                                                                                          AP English Languageand Composition

                                                                                          Synthesis Question

                                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                          2

                                                                                          Format

                                                                                          bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                                                          and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                                                          position on topic addressed in sources

                                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                          3

                                                                                          Sources

                                                                                          bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                                                          other visual

                                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                          4

                                                                                          Types of Sources

                                                                                          bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                          5

                                                                                          Synthesize the Argument

                                                                                          bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                                                          bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                                                          bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                                                          bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                          6

                                                                                          Distinctions

                                                                                          bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                                                          Source B etchellip)

                                                                                          2

                                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                          7

                                                                                          Savvy Writers

                                                                                          bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                                          their argument

                                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                          8

                                                                                          Six-Part Approach

                                                                                          bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                          9

                                                                                          Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                                          bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                                          makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                                          assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                          10

                                                                                          Generalize

                                                                                          bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                                          bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                                          bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                                          bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                          11

                                                                                          Converse

                                                                                          bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                                          bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                                          bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                          12

                                                                                          Finesse

                                                                                          bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                                          bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                                          bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                                          3

                                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                          13

                                                                                          Argue

                                                                                          bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                                          takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                          14

                                                                                          Conclusion

                                                                                          bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                                          position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                                          THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                                          WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                                          1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                                          You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                                          3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                                          EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                                          How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                                          1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                                          exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                                          Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                                          The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                                          EXAMPLE

                                                                                          Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                                          If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                                          1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                                          concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                                          Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                                          Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                                          Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                                          1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                                          2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                                          3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                                          4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                                          EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                                          1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                                          2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                                          earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                                          3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                                          4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                                          5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                                          ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                                          6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                                          7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                                          8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                                          his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                                          work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                                          your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                                          develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                                          bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                                          1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                                          Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                                          Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                                          An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                                          Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                                          And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                                          10 Apostrophes

                                                                                          Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                          Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                          Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                          Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                          Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                          Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                          The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                          The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                          For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                                          Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                                          There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                                          Moses leadership

                                                                                          Socrates wisdom

                                                                                          Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                                          Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                                          8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                                          Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                          Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                          Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                          Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                          Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                          Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                          Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                          Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                          Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                          6 Cannot

                                                                                          One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                          5 Affect and effect

                                                                                          Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                          She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                          For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                          She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                          A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                          A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                          4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                          Not intensive purposes

                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                          For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                          For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                          3 Plural or singular

                                                                                          It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                          The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                          The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                          Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                          2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                          Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                          Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                          Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                          Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                          principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                          principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                          1 Itsits

                                                                                          Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                          The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                          The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                          Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                          Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                          Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                          (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                          When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                          Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                          Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                          These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                          1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                          2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                          3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                          4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                          5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                          5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                          7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                          8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                          9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                          10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                          Why it matters

                                                                                          In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                          What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                          Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                          hink

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                                                                                                                    • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
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                                                                                            other types of evidence The following appeal counts on the readerrsquos desire to the socially correct thing It is sometimes necessary or desirable to use euphemisms The term ldquocorrectional institutionrdquo avoids the negative connotations of ldquoprisonrdquo and speaking of the ldquopassing onrdquo of someonersquos dear departed relative is kinder than talking about her death THE RELIABILITY OF EVIDENCE To work effectively evidence must meet four criteria It must be

                                                                                            Accurate ndash correctly reported drawn from a reliable source quote exactly and undistorted in meaning

                                                                                            Relevant ndash relating directly to the point and drawn from a source with authority on the topic

                                                                                            Representative ndash accurately reflecting the sample from which it is said to be drawn Adequate ndash sufficient and specific enough to justify your conclusions

                                                                                            In the following paragraph the evidence from the American Bar Association could be checked for accuracy and it is directly relevant to the assertion about laws regulating AIDS transmittal Readers could question whether the single expert opinion is representative and adequate for supporting the assertion

                                                                                            Additional laws regulating transmittal of AIDS virus are not needed The criminal justice system already has sufficient power to deal with those who might recklessly endanger others through their actions This position is supported by a report of the American Bar Association which has concluded that existing legislation is adequate for combating the AIDS epidemic and that additional measures to criminalize HIV transmission would be redundant

                                                                                            (Source AP workshop ndash October 1998 ndash Ft Lauderdale FL)

                                                                                            AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                                                            from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                                                            drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                                                            principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                                                            the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                                                            15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                                                            known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                                                            of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                                                            choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                                                            itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                                                            APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                                            bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                                                            guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                                                            authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                                                            sense of urgency specific examples

                                                                                            LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                                            bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                                                            bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                                                            ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                                                            ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                                                            Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                                                            State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                                                            THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                                                            Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                                                            1

                                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                            1

                                                                                            AP English Languageand Composition

                                                                                            Synthesis Question

                                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                            2

                                                                                            Format

                                                                                            bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                                                            and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                                                            position on topic addressed in sources

                                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                            3

                                                                                            Sources

                                                                                            bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                                                            other visual

                                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                            4

                                                                                            Types of Sources

                                                                                            bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                            5

                                                                                            Synthesize the Argument

                                                                                            bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                                                            bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                                                            bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                                                            bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                            6

                                                                                            Distinctions

                                                                                            bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                                                            Source B etchellip)

                                                                                            2

                                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                            7

                                                                                            Savvy Writers

                                                                                            bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                                            their argument

                                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                            8

                                                                                            Six-Part Approach

                                                                                            bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                            9

                                                                                            Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                                            bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                                            makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                                            assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                            10

                                                                                            Generalize

                                                                                            bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                                            bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                                            bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                                            bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                            11

                                                                                            Converse

                                                                                            bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                                            bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                                            bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                            12

                                                                                            Finesse

                                                                                            bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                                            bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                                            bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                                            3

                                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                            13

                                                                                            Argue

                                                                                            bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                                            takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                                            Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                            Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                            14

                                                                                            Conclusion

                                                                                            bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                                            position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                                            THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                                            WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                                            1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                                            You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                                            3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                                            EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                                            How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                                            1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                                            exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                                            Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                                            The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                                            EXAMPLE

                                                                                            Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                                            If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                                            1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                                            concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                                            Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                                            Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                                            Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                                            1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                                            2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                                            3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                                            4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                                            EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                                            1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                                            2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                                            earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                                            3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                                            4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                                            5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                                            ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                                            6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                                            7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                                            8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                                            his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                                            work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                                            your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                                            develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                                            bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                                            1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                                            Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                                            Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                                            An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                                            Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                                            And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                                            10 Apostrophes

                                                                                            Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                            Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                            Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                            Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                            Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                            Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                            The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                            The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                            For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                                            Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                                            There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                                            Moses leadership

                                                                                            Socrates wisdom

                                                                                            Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                                            Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                                            8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                                            Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                            Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                            Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                            Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                            Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                            Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                            Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                            Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                            Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                            6 Cannot

                                                                                            One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                            5 Affect and effect

                                                                                            Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                            She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                            For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                            She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                            A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                            A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                            4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                            Not intensive purposes

                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                            For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                            For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                            3 Plural or singular

                                                                                            It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                            The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                            The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                            Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                            2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                            Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                            Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                            Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                            Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                            principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                            principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                            1 Itsits

                                                                                            Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                            The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                            The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                            Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                            Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                            Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                            (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                            When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                            Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                            Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                            These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                            1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                            2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                            3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                            4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                            5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                            5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                            7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                            8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                            9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                            10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                            Why it matters

                                                                                            In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                            What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                            Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                            hink

                                                                                            • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                            • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                              • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                              • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                                • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                                • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                                  • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                                  • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                    • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                    • Antecedents
                                                                                                    • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                      • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                          • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                            • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                            • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                            • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                            • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                              • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                              • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                              • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                                • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                                  • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                  • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                                  • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                                  • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                                  • promptpdf
                                                                                                                  • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                                  • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                    • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                      • Improving writing
                                                                                                                      • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                      • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                          • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                            • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                              • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                              • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                              • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                              • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                              • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                              • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                              • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                              • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                                • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                                  • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                  • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                                  • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                    • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                      • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                      • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                        • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                        • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                              AP English Language General Terms in Argumentation Ms Walz 1 Argument a process in which a speaker writer or artist tries to elicit a desired response

                                                                                              from an audience by identifying commonalities in the interests of both parties 2 Assertion conclusion one draws based on some combination of reasons and assumptions 3 Assumption provides the connection between the evidence or proof and the conclusions

                                                                                              drawn from the proof (the unseen glue in an argument) 4 Thesis the main assertion in an argument 5 Claim an assertion 6 Summary key ideas from an argument 7 Premise another word for assumption and reasons (formal logic) 8 Definition of terms explaining or clarifying a word or expression 9 Analogy suggestion that two ideas situations are comparable in a certain way 10 Syllogism classic outline of deduction used to test the logic of an argument 11 Enthymene a compact deductive argument 12 Deductive a method of organizing arguments by drawing a conclusion based on a general

                                                                                              principle (such as the Declaration of Independence) 13 Inductive a method of organizing an argument by generalizing from the specific data 14 Least-to-most important in organization starts with less strong assertion and builds up to

                                                                                              the strongest ones in order to establish a sense of momentum and emphasize the most important points

                                                                                              15 Conclusion a third statement produced from two statements or propositions taken to be true 16 Inference conclusion reached from something known and going on to something not fully

                                                                                              known or observed 17 Rebuttal proof that an argument or statement is wrong the answer to an assumption point

                                                                                              of view or statement with which one disagrees Errors in Logic 18 Faulty assumption an incorrect connection between the evidence and the conclusion 19 False dilemma an either-or situation in which the writer implies that we have only two

                                                                                              choices 20 Equivocation two meanings at the same time in one word or phrase 21 Begging the question assuming something as a given that has not been proved 22 Ad hominem the writer attacts an individual holding the position rather than the position

                                                                                              itself 23 Red herring a distraction inserted into an argument 24 Non sequitur an erroneous connection between the evidence and the conclusion

                                                                                              APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                                              bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                                                              guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                                                              authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                                                              sense of urgency specific examples

                                                                                              LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                                              bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                                                              bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                                                              ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                                                              ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                                                              Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                                                              State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                                                              THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                                                              Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                                                              1

                                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                              1

                                                                                              AP English Languageand Composition

                                                                                              Synthesis Question

                                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                              2

                                                                                              Format

                                                                                              bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                                                              and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                                                              position on topic addressed in sources

                                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                              3

                                                                                              Sources

                                                                                              bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                                                              other visual

                                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                              4

                                                                                              Types of Sources

                                                                                              bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                              5

                                                                                              Synthesize the Argument

                                                                                              bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                                                              bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                                                              bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                                                              bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                              6

                                                                                              Distinctions

                                                                                              bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                                                              Source B etchellip)

                                                                                              2

                                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                              7

                                                                                              Savvy Writers

                                                                                              bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                                              their argument

                                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                              8

                                                                                              Six-Part Approach

                                                                                              bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                              9

                                                                                              Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                                              bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                                              makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                                              assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                              10

                                                                                              Generalize

                                                                                              bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                                              bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                                              bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                                              bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                              11

                                                                                              Converse

                                                                                              bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                                              bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                                              bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                              12

                                                                                              Finesse

                                                                                              bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                                              bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                                              bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                                              3

                                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                              13

                                                                                              Argue

                                                                                              bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                                              takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                                              Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                              Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                              14

                                                                                              Conclusion

                                                                                              bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                                              position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                                              THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                                              WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                                              1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                                              You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                                              3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                                              EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                                              How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                                              1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                                              exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                                              Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                                              The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                                              EXAMPLE

                                                                                              Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                                              If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                                              1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                                              concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                                              Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                                              Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                                              Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                                              1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                                              2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                                              3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                                              4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                                              EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                                              1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                                              2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                                              earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                                              3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                                              4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                                              5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                                              ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                                              6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                                              7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                                              8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                                              his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                                              work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                                              your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                                              develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                                              bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                                              1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                                              Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                                              Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                                              An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                                              Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                                              And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                                              10 Apostrophes

                                                                                              Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                              Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                              Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                              Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                              Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                              Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                              The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                              The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                              For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                                              Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                                              There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                                              Moses leadership

                                                                                              Socrates wisdom

                                                                                              Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                                              Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                                              8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                                              Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                              Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                              Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                              Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                              Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                              Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                              Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                              Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                              Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                              6 Cannot

                                                                                              One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                              5 Affect and effect

                                                                                              Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                              She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                              For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                              She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                              A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                              A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                              4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                              Not intensive purposes

                                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                              For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                              For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                              3 Plural or singular

                                                                                              It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                              The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                              The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                              Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                              2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                              Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                              Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                              Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                              Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                              principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                              principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                              1 Itsits

                                                                                              Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                              The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                              The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                              Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                              Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                              Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                              (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                              When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                              Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                              Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                              These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                              1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                              2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                              3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                              4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                              5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                              5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                              7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                              8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                              9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                              10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                              Why it matters

                                                                                              In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                              What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                              Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                              hink

                                                                                              • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                              • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                                • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                                • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                                  • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                                  • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                                    • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                                    • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                      • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                      • Antecedents
                                                                                                      • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                        • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                            • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                              • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                              • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                              • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                              • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                                • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                                • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                                  • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                                    • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                    • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                                    • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                                    • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                                    • promptpdf
                                                                                                                    • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                                    • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                      • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                        • Improving writing
                                                                                                                        • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                        • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                            • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                              • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                                • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                                • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                                • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                                • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                                • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                                • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                                • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                                • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                                  • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                                    • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                    • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                                    • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                      • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                        • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                        • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                          • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                          • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                                APPEALING TO YOUR AUDIENCE When analyzing someone elsersquos argument or constructing your own always ask yourself these questions Who is the speaker Who is the speaker or authorrsquos intended audience How do I know who the audience is How has the audience influenced the speaker or authorrsquos choice of argumentative strategies PATHOS - EMOTIONAL Arguments from the heart are designed to appeal to audiencersquos emotions and feelings Emotions can direct people in powerful ways to think more carefully about what they do In hearing or reading an argument that is heavy on emotional appeals ask yourself these questions How is the speaker or author appealing to the audiencersquos emotions Why Always try to name the emotions being appealed to (love sympathy anger fear hate patriotism compassion) and figure out how the emotion is being created in the audience Emotional appeals are often just examples - ones chosen to awaken specific feelings in an audience Although frequently abused the emotional appeal is a legitimate aspect of argument for speakers and authors want their audience to care about the issues they address Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                                                bull moving stories and anecdotes that prove your opinion bull using emotional language or ldquocatchy wordsrdquo to appeal to peoplersquo s values or

                                                                                                guilty consciences or vivid description bull slanting Omitting or not using information that may conflict with or weaken the

                                                                                                authorrsquos opinion bull predicting extreme outcomes of eventsdire predication in order to create a

                                                                                                sense of urgency specific examples

                                                                                                LOGOS - LOGICAL Loosely defined logos refers to the use of logic reasons facts statistics data and numbers Logical appeals are aimed at the mind of the audience their thinking side Very often logos seems tangible and touchable When a speaker or writer uses logical appeals he or she will avoid inflammatory language and the writer will carefully connect its reasons to supporting evidence Ask yourself why the author or speaker is using logos Here are some but not all techniques that are used in this type of appeal

                                                                                                bull logical reasons why your audience should believe you (keep in mind that not all reasons are equally persuasive for all audiences)

                                                                                                bull evidence that proves or explains your reasons ~ factsndashusing information that can be checked by testing observing firsthand or reading reference materials to support an opinion ~ statisticsndashpercentages numbers and charts to highlight significant data

                                                                                                ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                                                                ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                                                                Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                                                                State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                                                                THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                                                                Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                                                                1

                                                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                1

                                                                                                AP English Languageand Composition

                                                                                                Synthesis Question

                                                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                2

                                                                                                Format

                                                                                                bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                                                                and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                                                                position on topic addressed in sources

                                                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                3

                                                                                                Sources

                                                                                                bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                                                                other visual

                                                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                4

                                                                                                Types of Sources

                                                                                                bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                5

                                                                                                Synthesize the Argument

                                                                                                bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                                                                bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                                                                bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                                                                bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                6

                                                                                                Distinctions

                                                                                                bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                                                                Source B etchellip)

                                                                                                2

                                                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                7

                                                                                                Savvy Writers

                                                                                                bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                                                their argument

                                                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                8

                                                                                                Six-Part Approach

                                                                                                bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                9

                                                                                                Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                                                bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                                                makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                                                assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                10

                                                                                                Generalize

                                                                                                bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                                                bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                                                bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                                                bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                11

                                                                                                Converse

                                                                                                bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                                                bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                                                bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                12

                                                                                                Finesse

                                                                                                bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                                                bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                                                bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                                                3

                                                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                13

                                                                                                Argue

                                                                                                bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                                                takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                                                Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                14

                                                                                                Conclusion

                                                                                                bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                                                position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                                                THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                                                WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                                                1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                                                You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                                                3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                                                EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                                                How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                                                1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                                                exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                                                Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                                                The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                                                EXAMPLE

                                                                                                Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                                                If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                                                1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                                                concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                                                Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                                                Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                                                Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                                                1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                                                2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                                                3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                                                4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                                                EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                                                1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                                                2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                                                earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                                                3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                                                4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                                                5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                                                ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                                                6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                                                7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                                                8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                                                his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                                                work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                                                your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                                                develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                                                bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                                                1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                                                Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                                                Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                                                An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                                                Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                                                And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                                                10 Apostrophes

                                                                                                Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                                                Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                                                There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                                                Moses leadership

                                                                                                Socrates wisdom

                                                                                                Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                                                Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                                                8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                                                Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                                Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                                Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                                Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                                Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                                6 Cannot

                                                                                                One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                                5 Affect and effect

                                                                                                Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                                She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                                For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                                She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                                A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                                4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                                Not intensive purposes

                                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                3 Plural or singular

                                                                                                It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                                2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                                Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                                Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                                Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                                principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                                principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                                1 Itsits

                                                                                                Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                                When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                                Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                                Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                                These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                                1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                                2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                                3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                                4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                                5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                                5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                                7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                                8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                                9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                                10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                                Why it matters

                                                                                                In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                                What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                                Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                                hink

                                                                                                • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                                • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                                  • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                                  • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                                    • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                                    • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                                      • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                                      • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                        • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                        • Antecedents
                                                                                                        • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                          • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                              • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                                • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                                • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                                • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                                • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                                  • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                  • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                                  • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                                    • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                                      • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                      • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                                      • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                                      • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                                      • promptpdf
                                                                                                                      • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                                      • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                        • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                          • Improving writing
                                                                                                                          • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                          • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                              • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                                • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                                  • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                                  • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                                  • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                                  • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                                  • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                                  • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                                  • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                                  • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                                    • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                                      • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                      • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                                      • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                        • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                          • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                          • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                            • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                            • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                                  ~ expert opinionndashndashstatements by people who are recognized as authorities on the subject ~ examples-giving examples that support each reason ~ use of cause and effect compare and contrast and analogy

                                                                                                  ETHOS ndash ETHICAL Ethical appeals depend on the credibility or training of the author Audiences tend to believe writers who seem honest wise and trustworthy An author or speaker exerts ethical appeal when the language itself impresses the audience that the speaker is a person of intelligence high moral character and good will Thus a person wholly unknown to an audience can by words alone win that audiencersquos trust and approval Aristotle emphasized the importance of impressing upon the audience that the speaker is a person of good sense and high moral character ORGANIZATION Organization is critical because without it the reader will lose sight of the main issue or argument The most common method of organization is (1) State a thesis that is the opening statement of the authorrsquos opinion or position on an issue (2) Support that point of view with more than one argument and solid evidence (3) Give a summary of the writerrsquos argument ndash ending perhaps with a call to action

                                                                                                  Other methods of organizing persuasive writing include

                                                                                                  State a thesis then refute it State a thesis refute the other side and then support your side with evidence Suggest possibilities and dismiss all but one Pose a problem and solve it Form a hypothesis and test its implications Tell a story that has a strong argument Narrate several unrelated episodes and link them in a surprising way

                                                                                                  THE OTHER SIDE When writing a persuasive essay you need to look at the other side of your issue There are two possible ways to do this refute and concede-counter Refute is when you disprove or rebut the other side A concede-counter gives in to one or two points on the other side and then refuting the stance of the opposition Does your essay acknowledge the opposition and provide evidence to refute that opposition

                                                                                                  Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                                                                  1

                                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                  1

                                                                                                  AP English Languageand Composition

                                                                                                  Synthesis Question

                                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                  2

                                                                                                  Format

                                                                                                  bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                                                                  and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                                                                  position on topic addressed in sources

                                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                  3

                                                                                                  Sources

                                                                                                  bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                                                                  other visual

                                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                  4

                                                                                                  Types of Sources

                                                                                                  bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                  5

                                                                                                  Synthesize the Argument

                                                                                                  bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                                                                  bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                                                                  bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                                                                  bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                  6

                                                                                                  Distinctions

                                                                                                  bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                                                                  Source B etchellip)

                                                                                                  2

                                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                  7

                                                                                                  Savvy Writers

                                                                                                  bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                                                  their argument

                                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                  8

                                                                                                  Six-Part Approach

                                                                                                  bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                  9

                                                                                                  Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                                                  bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                                                  makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                                                  assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                  10

                                                                                                  Generalize

                                                                                                  bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                                                  bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                                                  bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                                                  bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                  11

                                                                                                  Converse

                                                                                                  bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                                                  bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                                                  bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                  12

                                                                                                  Finesse

                                                                                                  bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                                                  bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                                                  bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                                                  3

                                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                  13

                                                                                                  Argue

                                                                                                  bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                                                  takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                                                  Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                  Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                  14

                                                                                                  Conclusion

                                                                                                  bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                                                  position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                                                  THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                                                  WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                                                  1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                                                  You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                                                  3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                                                  EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                                                  How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                                                  1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                                                  exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                                                  Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                                                  The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                                                  EXAMPLE

                                                                                                  Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                                                  If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                                                  1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                                                  concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                                                  Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                                                  Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                                                  Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                                                  1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                                                  2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                                                  3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                                                  4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                                                  EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                                                  1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                                                  2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                                                  earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                                                  3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                                                  4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                                                  5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                                                  ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                                                  6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                                                  7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                                                  8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                                                  his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                                                  work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                                                  your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                                                  develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                                                  bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                                                  1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                                                  Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                                                  Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                                                  An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                                                  Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                                                  And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                                                  10 Apostrophes

                                                                                                  Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                  Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                  Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                  Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                  Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                  Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                  The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                  The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                  For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                                                  Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                                                  There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                                                  Moses leadership

                                                                                                  Socrates wisdom

                                                                                                  Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                                                  Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                                                  8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                                                  Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                  Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                  Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                  Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                                  Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                                  Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                                  Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                  Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                                  Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                                  6 Cannot

                                                                                                  One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                                  5 Affect and effect

                                                                                                  Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                                  She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                                  For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                                  She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                  A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                                  A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                                  4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                                  Not intensive purposes

                                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                  For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                  For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                  3 Plural or singular

                                                                                                  It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                  The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                  The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                  Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                                  2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                                  Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                  Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                                  Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                                  Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                                  principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                                  principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                                  1 Itsits

                                                                                                  Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                  The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                  The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                  Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                  Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                  Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                  (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                                  When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                                  Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                                  Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                                  These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                                  1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                                  2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                                  3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                                  4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                                  5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                                  5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                                  7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                                  8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                                  9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                                  10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                                  Why it matters

                                                                                                  In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                                  What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                                  Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                                  hink

                                                                                                  • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                                  • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                                    • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                                    • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                                      • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                                      • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                                        • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                                        • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                          • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                          • Antecedents
                                                                                                          • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                            • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                                • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                                  • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                                  • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                                  • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                                  • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                                    • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                    • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                                    • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                                      • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                                        • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                        • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                                        • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                                        • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                                        • promptpdf
                                                                                                                        • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                                        • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                          • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                            • Improving writing
                                                                                                                            • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                            • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                                • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                                  • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                                    • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                                    • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                                    • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                                    • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                                    • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                                    • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                                    • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                                    • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                                      • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                                        • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                        • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                                        • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                          • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                            • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                            • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                              • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                              • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                                    Logical Fallacies Appeal to Authority bull cites an authority who is not qualified to have an expert opinion bull cites an expert when other experts disagree on the issue bull cites an expert by hearsay only Firemen support Jones as the best choice for our towns future (Firemen would be experts only on the towns fire safety) Appeal to Force bull predicts dangerous outcomes if you follow a course other than the speakers This kind of economic policy will lose you your job - and hurt your childrens future (Is there evidence that it might actually build prosperity and bring additional jobs) Appeal to Popularity bull also known as Bandwagon bull holds an opinion to be valuable because large numbers of people support it Polls show that Americans prefer their current health care system (Are there options Could a majority be missing the boat) Attacking the Person bull also known as Ad Hominem bull attacks the person making the argument instead of the argument bull attacks the person making the argument because of those with whom he associates bull insinuates that the person making the argument would stand to gain by it Certainly hes in favor of a single tax - hes rich (But could it be that a single tax might benefit others too) False Dilemma bull offers a limited number of options - usually two - when there are really more choices Either we continue the failed war against drugs and lose another generation or make marijuana legalrdquo (Are there other ways to deal with the drug issue) Hasty Generalization bull uses a sample too small to support the conclusion Weve seen here in Smallvilles widget factory that free trade doesnt help the American worker (How about the millions of American workers elsewhere) Slippery Slope bull threatens a series of increasingly dire consequences from taking a simpler course of action First its gun show laws and then theyll come to confiscate all guns and then we lose democracy altogether (Do gun laws do imply eventual confiscation)

                                                                                                    1

                                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                    1

                                                                                                    AP English Languageand Composition

                                                                                                    Synthesis Question

                                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                    2

                                                                                                    Format

                                                                                                    bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                                                                    and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                                                                    position on topic addressed in sources

                                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                    3

                                                                                                    Sources

                                                                                                    bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                                                                    other visual

                                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                    4

                                                                                                    Types of Sources

                                                                                                    bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                    5

                                                                                                    Synthesize the Argument

                                                                                                    bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                                                                    bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                                                                    bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                                                                    bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                    6

                                                                                                    Distinctions

                                                                                                    bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                                                                    Source B etchellip)

                                                                                                    2

                                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                    7

                                                                                                    Savvy Writers

                                                                                                    bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                                                    their argument

                                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                    8

                                                                                                    Six-Part Approach

                                                                                                    bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                    9

                                                                                                    Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                                                    bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                                                    makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                                                    assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                    10

                                                                                                    Generalize

                                                                                                    bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                                                    bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                                                    bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                                                    bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                    11

                                                                                                    Converse

                                                                                                    bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                                                    bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                                                    bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                    12

                                                                                                    Finesse

                                                                                                    bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                                                    bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                                                    bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                                                    3

                                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                    13

                                                                                                    Argue

                                                                                                    bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                                                    takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                                                    Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                    Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                    14

                                                                                                    Conclusion

                                                                                                    bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                                                    position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                                                    THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                                                    WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                                                    1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                                                    You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                                                    3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                                                    EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                                                    How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                                                    1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                                                    exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                                                    Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                                                    The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                                                    EXAMPLE

                                                                                                    Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                                                    If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                                                    1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                                                    concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                                                    Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                                                    Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                                                    Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                                                    1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                                                    2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                                                    3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                                                    4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                                                    EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                                                    1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                                                    2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                                                    earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                                                    3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                                                    4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                                                    5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                                                    ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                                                    6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                                                    7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                                                    8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                                                    his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                                                    work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                                                    your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                                                    develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                                                    bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                                                    1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                                                    Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                                                    Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                                                    An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                                                    Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                                                    And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                                                    10 Apostrophes

                                                                                                    Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                    Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                    Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                    Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                    Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                    Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                    The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                    The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                    For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                                                    Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                                                    There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                                                    Moses leadership

                                                                                                    Socrates wisdom

                                                                                                    Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                                                    Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                                                    8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                                                    Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                    Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                    Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                    Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                                    Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                                    Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                                    Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                    Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                                    Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                                    6 Cannot

                                                                                                    One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                                    5 Affect and effect

                                                                                                    Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                                    She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                                    For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                                    She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                    A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                                    A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                                    4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                                    Not intensive purposes

                                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                    For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                    For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                    3 Plural or singular

                                                                                                    It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                    The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                    The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                    Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                                    2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                                    Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                    Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                                    Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                                    Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                                    principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                                    principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                                    1 Itsits

                                                                                                    Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                    The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                    The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                    Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                    Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                    Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                    (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                                    When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                                    Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                                    Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                                    These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                                    1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                                    2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                                    3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                                    4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                                    5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                                    5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                                    7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                                    8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                                    9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                                    10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                                    Why it matters

                                                                                                    In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                                    What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                                    Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                                    hink

                                                                                                    • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                                    • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                                      • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                                      • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                                        • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                                        • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                                          • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                                          • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                            • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                            • Antecedents
                                                                                                            • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                              • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                                  • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                                    • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                                    • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                                    • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                                    • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                                      • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                      • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                                      • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                                        • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                                          • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                          • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                                          • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                                          • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                                          • promptpdf
                                                                                                                          • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                                          • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                            • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                              • Improving writing
                                                                                                                              • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                              • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                                  • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                                    • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                                      • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                                      • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                                      • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                                      • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                                      • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                                      • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                                      • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                                      • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                                        • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                                          • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                          • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                                          • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                            • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                              • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                              • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                                • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                                • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                                      1

                                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                      1

                                                                                                      AP English Languageand Composition

                                                                                                      Synthesis Question

                                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                      2

                                                                                                      Format

                                                                                                      bull Extra 15 minutes - timedbull Access to Questions (all essay prompts)

                                                                                                      and all Sources for Synthesisbull First Question in packet in Synthesisbull Access to writing packet only after 15 minbull Most likely asking for an argument or

                                                                                                      position on topic addressed in sources

                                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                      3

                                                                                                      Sources

                                                                                                      bull Six to eight sourcesbull Texts of no longer than one pagebull At least one graphic chart cartoon or

                                                                                                      other visual

                                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                      4

                                                                                                      Types of Sources

                                                                                                      bull News articlesbull Opinion articlesbull Graphicsbull Chartsbull Political Cartoonsbull Transcripts (interview)bull Speeches (text)

                                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                      5

                                                                                                      Synthesize the Argument

                                                                                                      bull Use a minimum of three Sources to support your position

                                                                                                      bull Clearly cite your Sources in the essay eg Source A Source B Source C

                                                                                                      bull Cite the Source at the end of a direct or partial quote

                                                                                                      bull Cite the Source at the end of a paraphrase

                                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                      6

                                                                                                      Distinctions

                                                                                                      bull Use the Sources as your evidencebull Bring in other relevant details as supportbull Use a MINIMUM of three sourcesbull Clearly identify the sources (Source A

                                                                                                      Source B etchellip)

                                                                                                      2

                                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                      7

                                                                                                      Savvy Writers

                                                                                                      bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                                                      their argument

                                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                      8

                                                                                                      Six-Part Approach

                                                                                                      bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                      9

                                                                                                      Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                                                      bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                                                      makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                                                      assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                      10

                                                                                                      Generalize

                                                                                                      bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                                                      bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                                                      bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                                                      bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                      11

                                                                                                      Converse

                                                                                                      bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                                                      bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                                                      bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                      12

                                                                                                      Finesse

                                                                                                      bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                                                      bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                                                      bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                                                      3

                                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                      13

                                                                                                      Argue

                                                                                                      bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                                                      takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                                                      Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                      Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                      14

                                                                                                      Conclusion

                                                                                                      bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                                                      position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                                                      THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                                                      WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                                                      1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                                                      You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                                                      3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                                                      EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                                                      How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                                                      1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                                                      exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                                                      Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                                                      The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                                                      EXAMPLE

                                                                                                      Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                                                      If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                                                      1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                                                      concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                                                      Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                                                      Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                                                      Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                                                      1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                                                      2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                                                      3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                                                      4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                                                      EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                                                      1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                                                      2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                                                      earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                                                      3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                                                      4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                                                      5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                                                      ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                                                      6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                                                      7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                                                      8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                                                      his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                                                      work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                                                      your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                                                      develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                                                      bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                                                      1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                                                      Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                                                      Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                                                      An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                                                      Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                                                      And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                                                      10 Apostrophes

                                                                                                      Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                      Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                      Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                      Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                      Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                      Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                      The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                      The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                      For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                                                      Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                                                      There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                                                      Moses leadership

                                                                                                      Socrates wisdom

                                                                                                      Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                                                      Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                                                      8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                                                      Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                      Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                      Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                      Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                                      Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                                      Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                                      Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                      Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                                      Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                                      6 Cannot

                                                                                                      One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                                      5 Affect and effect

                                                                                                      Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                                      She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                                      For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                                      She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                      A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                                      A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                                      4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                                      Not intensive purposes

                                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                      For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                      For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                      3 Plural or singular

                                                                                                      It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                      The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                      The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                      Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                                      2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                                      Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                      Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                                      Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                                      Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                                      principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                                      principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                                      1 Itsits

                                                                                                      Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                      The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                      The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                      Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                      Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                      Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                      (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                                      When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                                      Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                                      Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                                      These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                                      1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                                      2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                                      3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                                      4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                                      5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                                      5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                                      7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                                      8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                                      9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                                      10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                                      Why it matters

                                                                                                      In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                                      What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                                      Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                                      hink

                                                                                                      • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                                      • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                                        • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                                        • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                                          • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                                          • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                                            • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                                            • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                              • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                              • Antecedents
                                                                                                              • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                                • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                                    • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                                      • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                                      • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                                      • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                                      • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                                        • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                        • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                                        • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                                          • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                                            • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                            • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                                            • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                                            • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                                            • promptpdf
                                                                                                                            • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                                            • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                              • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                                • Improving writing
                                                                                                                                • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                                • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                                    • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                                      • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                                        • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                                        • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                                        • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                                        • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                                        • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                                        • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                                        • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                                        • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                                          • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                                            • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                            • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                                            • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                              • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                                • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                                • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                                  • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                                  • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                                        2

                                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                        7

                                                                                                        Savvy Writers

                                                                                                        bull converse with sources bull incorporate (literally em-body) them in

                                                                                                        their argument

                                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                        8

                                                                                                        Six-Part Approach

                                                                                                        bull Read bull Analyze bull Generalize bull Converse bull Finesse and bull Argue

                                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                        9

                                                                                                        Readhellip and Analyze

                                                                                                        bull Use 15 minutes to readanalyze sourcesbull Read and write on the cover sheetbull Annotate the sources themselves bull Analyze the argument each source is

                                                                                                        makingbull Consider claim dataevidence and

                                                                                                        assumptions or beliefs that warrant the claim (Toulmin argument analysis)

                                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                        10

                                                                                                        Generalize

                                                                                                        bull Generalize about potential stands on the issue

                                                                                                        bull Consider possible positions select a strong one

                                                                                                        bull Resists the temptation to oversimplify the issue

                                                                                                        bull Given thought to the nuances the complexities of the assigned topic

                                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                        11

                                                                                                        Converse

                                                                                                        bull Imagine presenting each of the best positions on the issue to each of the authors of the provided sources

                                                                                                        bull Create an imaginary conversation with the authorcreator of the source

                                                                                                        bull Would the authorcreator agree Why Disagree Why Want to qualify it in some way Why and how

                                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                        12

                                                                                                        Finesse

                                                                                                        bull Finesse refine the point about the issue to create a central proposition a thesis

                                                                                                        bull Proposition or thesis should appear quickly - after one or two sentences that contextualize the issue for the reader

                                                                                                        bull Proposition should be as complex and robust as the topic requires

                                                                                                        3

                                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                        13

                                                                                                        Argue

                                                                                                        bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                                                        takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                                                        Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                        Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                        14

                                                                                                        Conclusion

                                                                                                        bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                                                        position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                                                        THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                                                        WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                                                        1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                                                        You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                                                        3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                                                        EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                                                        How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                                                        1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                                                        exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                                                        Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                                                        The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                                                        EXAMPLE

                                                                                                        Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                                                        If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                                                        1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                                                        concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                                                        Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                                                        Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                                                        Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                                                        1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                                                        2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                                                        3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                                                        4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                                                        EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                                                        1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                                                        2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                                                        earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                                                        3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                                                        4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                                                        5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                                                        ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                                                        6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                                                        7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                                                        8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                                                        his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                                                        work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                                                        your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                                                        develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                                                        bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                                                        1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                                                        Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                                                        Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                                                        An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                                                        Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                                                        And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                                                        10 Apostrophes

                                                                                                        Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                        Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                        Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                        Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                        Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                        Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                        The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                        The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                        For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                                                        Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                                                        There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                                                        Moses leadership

                                                                                                        Socrates wisdom

                                                                                                        Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                                                        Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                                                        8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                                                        Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                        Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                        Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                        Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                                        Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                                        Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                                        Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                        Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                                        Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                                        6 Cannot

                                                                                                        One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                                        5 Affect and effect

                                                                                                        Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                                        She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                                        For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                                        She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                        A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                                        A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                                        4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                                        Not intensive purposes

                                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                        For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                        For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                        3 Plural or singular

                                                                                                        It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                        The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                        The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                        Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                                        2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                                        Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                        Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                                        Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                                        Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                                        principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                                        principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                                        1 Itsits

                                                                                                        Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                        The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                        The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                        Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                        Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                        Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                        (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                                        When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                                        Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                                        Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                                        These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                                        1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                                        2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                                        3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                                        4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                                        5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                                        5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                                        7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                                        8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                                        9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                                        10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                                        Why it matters

                                                                                                        In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                                        What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                                        Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                                        hink

                                                                                                        • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                                        • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                                          • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                                          • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                                            • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                                            • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                                              • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                                              • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                                • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                                • Antecedents
                                                                                                                • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                                  • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                                      • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                                        • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                                        • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                                        • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                                        • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                                          • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                          • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                                          • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                                            • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                                              • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                              • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                                              • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                                              • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                                              • promptpdf
                                                                                                                              • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                                              • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                                • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                                  • Improving writing
                                                                                                                                  • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                                  • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                                      • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                                        • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                                          • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                                          • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                                          • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                                          • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                                          • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                                          • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                                          • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                                          • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                                            • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                                              • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                              • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                                              • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                                • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                                  • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                                  • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                                    • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                                    • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                                          3

                                                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                          13

                                                                                                          Argue

                                                                                                          bull Argue your positionbull Recreate your ldquoconversationsrdquobull Feel free to say things like Source A

                                                                                                          takes a position similar to mine or Source C would oppose my position but heres why I still maintain its validity or Source E offers a slightly different perspective one that I would alter a bit

                                                                                                          Broward County ReviewApril 28 2007

                                                                                                          Virginia WalzCoral Springs High School

                                                                                                          14

                                                                                                          Conclusion

                                                                                                          bull Include a brief conclusionbull Try to come full-circle to the original

                                                                                                          position statementbull Avoid merely restating the thesis

                                                                                                          THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                                                          WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                                                          1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                                                          You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                                                          3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                                                          EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                                                          How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                                                          1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                                                          exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                                                          Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                                                          The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                                                          EXAMPLE

                                                                                                          Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                                                          If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                                                          1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                                                          concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                                                          Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                                                          Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                                                          Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                                                          1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                                                          2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                                                          3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                                                          4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                                                          EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                                                          1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                                                          2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                                                          earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                                                          3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                                                          4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                                                          5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                                                          ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                                                          6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                                                          7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                                                          8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                                                          his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                                                          work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                                                          your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                                                          develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                                                          bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                                                          1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                                                          Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                                                          Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                                                          An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                                                          Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                                                          And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                                                          10 Apostrophes

                                                                                                          Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                          Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                          Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                          Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                          Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                          Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                          The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                          The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                          For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                                                          Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                                                          There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                                                          Moses leadership

                                                                                                          Socrates wisdom

                                                                                                          Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                                                          Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                                                          8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                                                          Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                          Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                          Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                          Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                                          Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                                          Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                                          Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                          Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                                          Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                                          6 Cannot

                                                                                                          One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                                          5 Affect and effect

                                                                                                          Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                                          She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                                          For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                                          She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                          A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                                          A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                                          4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                                          Not intensive purposes

                                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                          For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                          For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                          3 Plural or singular

                                                                                                          It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                          The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                          The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                          Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                                          2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                                          Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                          Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                                          Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                                          Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                                          principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                                          principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                                          1 Itsits

                                                                                                          Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                          The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                          The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                          Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                          Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                          Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                          (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                                          When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                                          Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                                          Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                                          These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                                          1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                                          2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                                          3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                                          4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                                          5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                                          5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                                          7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                                          8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                                          9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                                          10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                                          Why it matters

                                                                                                          In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                                          What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                                          Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                                          hink

                                                                                                          • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                                          • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                                            • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                                            • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                                              • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                                              • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                                                • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                                                • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                                  • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                                  • Antecedents
                                                                                                                  • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                                    • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                                        • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                                          • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                                          • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                                          • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                                          • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                                            • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                            • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                                            • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                                              • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                                                • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                                                • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                                                • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                                                • promptpdf
                                                                                                                                • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                                                • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                                  • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                                    • Improving writing
                                                                                                                                    • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                                    • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                                        • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                                          • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                                            • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                                            • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                                            • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                                            • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                                            • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                                            • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                                            • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                                            • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                                              • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                                                • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                                                • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                                  • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                                    • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                                    • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                                      • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                                      • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                                            THE SYNTHESIS ESSAY

                                                                                                            WHAT IS A SYNTHESIS ESSAYA synthesis essay draws on two or more sources and combines their ideas into a coherent whole WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO WRITE ONE Writing a successful synthesis essay will require you to do four things

                                                                                                            1 read accurately and objectively 2 see relations among different viewpoints 3 define a thesis based on these relations 4 support the thesis effectively

                                                                                                            You will not discuss all the points in every essay but you should use every essay assigned and you should use points from each that are appropriate for the thesis of your own essay THIS LOOKS KIND OF HARD HOW DO I WRITE ITA synthesis essay may be developed in several ways including the following Thesis supported by examples Develop a thesis based on common points among the works and Support the thesis with appropriate examples from each work This strategy works well with essays that approach a subject from highly diverse viewpoints Comparison and contrast Discuss the similarities and differences in the writers viewpoints and draw whatever conclusions are possible from your comparison Argument If you have a clearly defined opinion about the subject support that opinion by incorporating the valid viewpoints of the writers of the essays you have selected and show the weaknesses of those ideas which you feel are not valid WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO WRITING THIS ESSAYConsider using the following procedure for writing your essay 1 Read carefully First skimming through the readings and look for similar issues in each essay Reflect on those issues and jot down your ideas Reread and decide on one topic that will unify your essay Note each essays thesis and main points Finally take notes 2 Next determine your thesis A thesis is a direct statement of a main issue or idea that youve developed from studying the essays If youre writing a comparison-contrast essay your thesis may explain the main points of agreement and disagreement among the writers youre dealing with If youre writing a thesis-with-examples essay your thesis may state the main idea youve developed from your readings which will be supported with examples from the readings in the body of your essay If youre writing an argument your thesis will state your opinion about the subject and will indicate that youll be supporting your views through an analysis of the essays

                                                                                                            3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                                                            EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                                                            How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                                                            1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                                                            exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                                                            Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                                                            The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                                                            EXAMPLE

                                                                                                            Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                                                            If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                                                            1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                                                            concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                                                            Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                                                            Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                                                            Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                                                            1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                                                            2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                                                            3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                                                            4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                                                            EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                                                            1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                                                            2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                                                            earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                                                            3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                                                            4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                                                            5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                                                            ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                                                            6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                                                            7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                                                            8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                                                            his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                                                            work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                                                            your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                                                            develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                                                            bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                                                            1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                                                            Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                                                            Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                                                            An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                                                            Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                                                            And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                                                            10 Apostrophes

                                                                                                            Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                            Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                            Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                            Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                            Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                            Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                            The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                            The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                            For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                                                            Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                                                            There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                                                            Moses leadership

                                                                                                            Socrates wisdom

                                                                                                            Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                                                            Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                                                            8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                                                            Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                            Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                            Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                            Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                                            Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                                            Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                                            Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                            Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                                            Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                                            6 Cannot

                                                                                                            One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                                            5 Affect and effect

                                                                                                            Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                                            She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                                            For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                                            She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                            A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                                            A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                                            4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                                            Not intensive purposes

                                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                            For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                            For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                            3 Plural or singular

                                                                                                            It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                            The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                            The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                            Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                                            2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                                            Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                            Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                                            Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                                            Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                                            principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                                            principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                                            1 Itsits

                                                                                                            Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                            The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                            The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                            Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                            Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                            Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                            (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                                            When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                                            Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                                            Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                                            These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                                            1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                                            2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                                            3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                                            4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                                            5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                                            5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                                            7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                                            8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                                            9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                                            10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                                            Why it matters

                                                                                                            In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                                            What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                                            Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                                            hink

                                                                                                            • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                                            • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                                              • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                                              • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                                                • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                                                • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                                                  • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                                                  • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                                    • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                                    • Antecedents
                                                                                                                    • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                                      • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                                          • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                                            • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                                            • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                                            • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                                            • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                                              • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                              • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                                              • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                                                • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                                                  • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                  • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                                                  • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                                                  • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                                                  • promptpdf
                                                                                                                                  • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                                                  • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                                    • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                                      • Improving writing
                                                                                                                                      • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                                      • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                                          • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                                            • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                                              • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                                              • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                                              • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                                              • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                                              • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                                              • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                                              • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                                              • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                                                • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                                                  • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                  • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                                                  • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                                    • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                                      • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                                      • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                                        • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                                        • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                                              3 Then organize your essay with your thesis in mind The type of organization you use depends on your thesis but in general you should be able to use either block-by-block or point-by-point organization with any of the essay types 4 Write a rough draft after youve decided on the organization youll be using Here are some pointers Early in your paper mention the titles and authors of the essays you will be discussing Quote or paraphrase brief passages from the essays to show how the essays illustrate agree with or disagree with each point you make Whenever you quote or paraphrase cite the author properly 5 And finally REVISE Remember All good writing is rewriting YEESH I STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THIS THING IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE The synthesis essay is one of the most difficult essays to write It can be very confusing and the assignment can be hard to understand

                                                                                                              EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                                                              How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                                                              1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                                                              exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                                                              Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                                                              The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                                                              EXAMPLE

                                                                                                              Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                                                              If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                                                              1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                                                              concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                                                              Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                                                              Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                                                              Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                                                              1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                                                              2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                                                              3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                                                              4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                                                              EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                                                              1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                                                              2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                                                              earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                                                              3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                                                              4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                                                              5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                                                              ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                                                              6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                                                              7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                                                              8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                                                              his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                                                              work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                                                              your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                                                              develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                                                              bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                                                              1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                                                              Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                                                              Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                                                              An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                                                              Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                                                              And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                                                              10 Apostrophes

                                                                                                              Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                              Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                              Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                              Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                              Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                              Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                              The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                              The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                              For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                                                              Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                                                              There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                                                              Moses leadership

                                                                                                              Socrates wisdom

                                                                                                              Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                                                              Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                                                              8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                                                              Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                              Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                              Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                              Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                                              Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                                              Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                                              Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                              Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                                              Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                                              6 Cannot

                                                                                                              One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                                              5 Affect and effect

                                                                                                              Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                                              She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                                              For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                                              She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                              A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                                              A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                                              4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                                              Not intensive purposes

                                                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                              For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                              For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                              3 Plural or singular

                                                                                                              It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                              The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                              The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                              Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                                              2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                                              Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                              Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                                              Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                                              Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                                              principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                                              principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                                              1 Itsits

                                                                                                              Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                              The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                              The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                              Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                                              WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                              Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                              Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                              (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                                              When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                                              Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                                              Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                                              These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                                              1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                                              2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                                              3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                                              4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                                              5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                                              5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                                              7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                                              8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                                              9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                                              10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                                              Why it matters

                                                                                                              In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                                              What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                                              Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                                              hink

                                                                                                              • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                                              • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                                                • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                                                  • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                                                  • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                                                    • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                                                    • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                                      • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                                      • Antecedents
                                                                                                                      • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                                        • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                                            • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                                              • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                                              • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                                              • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                                              • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                                                • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                                                • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                                                  • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                                                    • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                    • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                                                    • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                                                    • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                                                    • promptpdf
                                                                                                                                    • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                                                    • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                                      • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                                        • Improving writing
                                                                                                                                        • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                                        • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                                            • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                                              • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                                                • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                                                • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                                                • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                                                • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                                                • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                                                • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                                                • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                                                • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                                                  • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                                                    • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                    • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                                                    • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                                      • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                                        • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                                        • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                                          • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                                          • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                                                EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY

                                                                                                                How to improve your essay writing grade

                                                                                                                1 Vocabulary more precise descriptive elevated 2 Effectively written thesis that precisely and interpretively answers the prompt 3 Insight more commentary (CM) that reveals your analysis of the material 4 Precise concrete detail (CD) references from the text 5 Word Count generally speaking write more for every assignment (except when given an

                                                                                                                exact word count) The easiest way to do this is to vary your sentence structure and use more compound complex and compoundcomplex sentences

                                                                                                                Suggestions for effective THESIS in a prose analysis prompt

                                                                                                                The author (name) challenges attacks laments clarifies explores exposes etc (be sure to use an action verb) (WHATEVER) in order to (now use a second action verb) reveal differentiate provoke raise awareness of etc ________________

                                                                                                                EXAMPLE

                                                                                                                Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart exposes the inner feelings of the main character Okonkowo in order to reveal that this is more than just an African novel but also a timeless one that confronts all mankind with the essentials of its humanity

                                                                                                                If a student chooses to follow formulaic writing body paragraphs would be constructed as follows NOTE if a student wishes to write organically heshe should still ensure that adequate CD and CM is included in each and every body paragraph Specifics will make your writing stronger

                                                                                                                1 TS topic sentence provides evidence relating to thesis of the essay 2 CD For example (a fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 3 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 3 comments about CD2 4 CM It also shows CM sentence 4 says more about sentence 3 5 CD In addition (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 6 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 6 comments about CD5 7 CM It also shows CM sentence 7 says more about sentence 6 8 CD Furthermore (another fact quote or paraphrase that supports topic sentence 1) 9 CM This shows thathellipCM sentence 9 comments about CD8 10 CM It also showshellip CM sentence 10 says more about sentence 9 11 CS As a resulthellip ALL commentary Do not copy or use the same words as in the TS The

                                                                                                                concluding sentence of the paragraph should give a finished feeling

                                                                                                                Hint Think of the CD as the ldquoplay-by-playrdquo given by a sports announcer Think of the CM as the ldquocolor commentaryrdquo given by a sports announcer

                                                                                                                Helpful Hint Write in the literary present tense Another Helpful Hint Be organized and be sure to use transitions

                                                                                                                Weaving To break away from the formula

                                                                                                                1 Play with vocabulary in concrete detail and add commentary words

                                                                                                                2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                                                                3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                                                                4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                                                                EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                                                                1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                                                                2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                                                                earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                                                                3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                                                                4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                                                                5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                                                                ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                                                                6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                                                                7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                                                                8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                                                                his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                                                                work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                                                                your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                                                                develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                                                                bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                                                                1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                                                                Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                                                                Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                                                                An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                                                                Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                                                                And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                                                                10 Apostrophes

                                                                                                                Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                                Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                                Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                                Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                                Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                                The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                                For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                                                                Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                                                                There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                                                                Moses leadership

                                                                                                                Socrates wisdom

                                                                                                                Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                                                                Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                                                                8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                                                                Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                                Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                                Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                                                Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                                                Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                                                Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                                                Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                                                6 Cannot

                                                                                                                One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                                                5 Affect and effect

                                                                                                                Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                                                She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                                                For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                                                She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                                                A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                                                4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                                                Not intensive purposes

                                                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                                For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                                3 Plural or singular

                                                                                                                It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                                The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                                Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                                                2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                                                Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                                                Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                                                Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                                                principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                                                principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                                                1 Itsits

                                                                                                                Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                                The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                                Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                                                WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                                Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                                (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                                                When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                                                Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                                                Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                                                These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                                                1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                                                2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                                                3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                                                4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                                                5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                                                5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                                                7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                                                8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                                                9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                                                10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                                                Why it matters

                                                                                                                In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                                                What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                                                Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                                                hink

                                                                                                                • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                                                • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                                                  • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                  • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                                                    • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                                                    • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                                                      • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                                                      • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                                        • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                                        • Antecedents
                                                                                                                        • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                                          • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                                              • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                                                • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                                                • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                                                • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                                                • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                                                  • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                  • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                                                  • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                                                    • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                                                      • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                      • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                                                      • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                                                      • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                                                      • promptpdf
                                                                                                                                      • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                                                      • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                                        • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                                          • Improving writing
                                                                                                                                          • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                                          • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                                              • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                                                • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                                                  • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                                                  • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                                                  • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                                                  • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                                                  • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                                                  • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                                                  • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                                                  • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                                                    • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                                                      • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                      • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                                                      • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                                        • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                                          • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                                          • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                                            • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                                            • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                                                  2 Delete the transition device and capitalize the next word for example delete ldquoFor examplerdquo and ldquoAs a resultrdquo

                                                                                                                  3 Flip sentences around to see which way flows the best Change CD CM CM to CM CD CM

                                                                                                                  4 Chart possible CDs and CMs for topic Put them together the way you want but check all CD words and phrases to ensure that the proper ratio of CD to CM exists

                                                                                                                  EXAMPLE If your body paragraph is about DICTION and is only 8 sentences1

                                                                                                                  1 TS The authorrsquos diction gives insight into the formality that Captain MacWhirr assumed to escape childhood memories

                                                                                                                  2 CD His ship was his ldquoabode of harmony and peacerdquo his respite from ldquothe ant-heap of the

                                                                                                                  earthrdquo as he led a ldquobare existencerdquo

                                                                                                                  3 CM MacWhirr ran away from his parents and their judgment of his failure to the archetypal symbol of a motherrsquos womb-of the sea

                                                                                                                  4 CM There he lived simply and contentedly away from the artificiality of society

                                                                                                                  5 CD His ldquoflight of fancyrdquo was merely one to achieve greater peace away from his fatherrsquos

                                                                                                                  ldquosly chaffingrdquo to which he always responded with ldquoundutiful stupidityrdquo

                                                                                                                  6 CM Although his parents viewed his departure as a foolish adolescent decision MacWhirr knew he was escaping the constant subtle criticism that his father doled out

                                                                                                                  7 CM He remembered as well how he always failed to win his fatherrsquos approval and love

                                                                                                                  8 CS At the end of the passage it was MacWhirr who lived a fruitful and rewarding life at

                                                                                                                  his funeral more would be said than simply ldquoand then he diedrdquo More Helpful Hints bull Donrsquot mention the literary or rhetorical device repeatedly throughout the paragraphmdashdiscuss the

                                                                                                                  work bull Be very specific with your examplesCD and discuss the purposemdashhow does it relateprove

                                                                                                                  your thesis bull An author will use a literary or rhetorical device to express point of view further the narrative

                                                                                                                  develop a character express a theme reveal an argument persuade an audience etc HeShe does not use diction to make the work more interesting to the reader unless the purpose is to convince or persuade the reader on a topic For example an author may use an image to reveal something about a character not to ldquoput pictures into the readerrsquos mindrdquo

                                                                                                                  bull Donrsquot forget the main idea of the work or passage yoursquore writing aboutmdashlisting devices is not sufficientmdashwhat is the PURPOSE for the literaryrhetorical devices What does it all mean Whatrsquos the point

                                                                                                                  1 From Jane Schafferrsquos Style Analysis Packet

                                                                                                                  Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                                                                  Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                                                                  An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                                                                  Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                                                                  And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                                                                  10 Apostrophes

                                                                                                                  Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                  Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                                  Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                                  Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                                  Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                                  Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                  The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                                  The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                                  For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                                                                  Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                                                                  There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                                                                  Moses leadership

                                                                                                                  Socrates wisdom

                                                                                                                  Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                                                                  Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                                                                  8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                                                                  Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                  Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                                  Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                                  Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                                                  Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                                                  Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                                                  Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                  Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                                                  Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                                                  6 Cannot

                                                                                                                  One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                                                  5 Affect and effect

                                                                                                                  Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                                                  She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                                                  For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                                                  She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                  A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                                                  A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                                                  4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                                                  Not intensive purposes

                                                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                  For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                                  For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                                  3 Plural or singular

                                                                                                                  It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                  The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                                  The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                                  Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                                                  2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                                                  Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                  Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                                                  Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                                                  Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                                                  principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                                                  principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                                                  1 Itsits

                                                                                                                  Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                  The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                                  The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                                  Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                                                  WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                  Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                                  Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                                  (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                                                  When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                                                  Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                                                  Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                                                  These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                                                  1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                                                  2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                                                  3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                                                  4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                                                  5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                                                  5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                                                  7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                                                  8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                                                  9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                                                  10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                                                  Why it matters

                                                                                                                  In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                                                  What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                                                  Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                                                  hink

                                                                                                                  • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                                                  • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                                                    • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                    • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                                                      • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                                                      • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                                                        • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                                                        • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                                          • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                                          • Antecedents
                                                                                                                          • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                                            • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                                                • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                                                  • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                                                  • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                                                  • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                                                  • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                                                    • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                    • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                                                    • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                                                      • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                                                        • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                        • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                                                        • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                                                        • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                                                        • promptpdf
                                                                                                                                        • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                                                        • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                                          • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                                            • Improving writing
                                                                                                                                            • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                                            • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                                                • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                                                  • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                                                    • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                                                    • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                                                    • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                                                    • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                                                    • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                                                    • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                                                    • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                                                    • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                                                      • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                                                        • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                        • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                                                        • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                                          • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                                            • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                                            • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                                              • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                                              • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                                                    Top Ten Mistakes

                                                                                                                    Many students and some teachers think of language as a fixed logical structure with timeless rules A guide such as this one that presumes to teach the right way to write for college may well reinforce this view of an eternal ideal language But such a view misunderstands what language is Language our species greatest invention is a rich rough-and-tumble and ever-changing mix of formal rules and informal custom In a broad sense usage is always logical but the logic of rhetoricians (who have traditionally tried to base all their rules for English on how Latin works) and of a living language can be quite different Things that were once against the rules gradually win popular acceptance to the point that they become part of standard English other things once respectable English are gradually driven into disrepute by scholarly opinion

                                                                                                                    An example double negatives as a way of emphasizing negation have a long history in educated English stretching back to the time of Chaucer But in the 18th century classically-oriented grammarians aware that in Latin double negatives cancel out applied the same rule to English Two negatives in English destroy one another or are equivalent to an affirmative (Robert Lowth A Short Introduction to English Grammar 1762) Today most people accept this Latinate logic unquestioningly though it has been observed that a different logic that of algebra (-1 + -1 = -2) would support the old sense of amplified negation The grammarians have driven the poor old double negative into the gutter It is not recommended for formal writing

                                                                                                                    Thus there is an element of artificiality in any list of the leading mistakes in English The list presented here would undoubtedly change over time Apostrophes for instance are probably on the way out in the judgment of most language scholars today But theyre not gone yet and the audience for formal college English tends to be conservative Thus the wisest course is to give your readers what they are used to in terms of usage

                                                                                                                    And now the Nuts and Bolts top-ten list of usage mistakes in student essays

                                                                                                                    10 Apostrophes

                                                                                                                    Apostrophes have two functions to show contractions (I wont) and possession (Shakespeares tragedy) They are not used to show the plural of a noun

                                                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                    Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                                    Many have criticized the degree to which Americans revere personal freedom

                                                                                                                    Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                                    Machiavelli uses stories of actual princes to support his argument

                                                                                                                    Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                    The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                                    The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                                    For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                                                                    Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                                                                    There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                                                                    Moses leadership

                                                                                                                    Socrates wisdom

                                                                                                                    Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                                                                    Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                                                                    8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                                                                    Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                    Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                                    Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                                    Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                                                    Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                                                    Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                                                    Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                    Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                                                    Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                                                    6 Cannot

                                                                                                                    One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                                                    5 Affect and effect

                                                                                                                    Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                                                    She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                                                    For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                                                    She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                    A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                                                    A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                                                    4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                                                    Not intensive purposes

                                                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                    For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                                    For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                                    3 Plural or singular

                                                                                                                    It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                    The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                                    The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                                    Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                                                    2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                                                    Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                    Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                                                    Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                                                    Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                                                    principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                                                    principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                                                    1 Itsits

                                                                                                                    Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                    The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                                    The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                                    Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                                                    WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                    Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                                    Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                                    (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                                                    When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                                                    Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                                                    Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                                                    These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                                                    1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                                                    2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                                                    3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                                                    4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                                                    5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                                                    5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                                                    7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                                                    8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                                                    9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                                                    10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                                                    Why it matters

                                                                                                                    In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                                                    What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                                                    Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                                                    hink

                                                                                                                    • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                                                    • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                                                      • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                      • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                                                        • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                                                        • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                                                          • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                                                          • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                                            • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                                            • Antecedents
                                                                                                                            • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                                              • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                                                  • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                                                    • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                                                    • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                                                    • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                                                    • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                                                      • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                      • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                                                      • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                                                        • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                                                          • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                          • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                                                          • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                                                          • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                                                          • promptpdf
                                                                                                                                          • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                                                          • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                                            • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                                              • Improving writing
                                                                                                                                              • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                                              • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                                                  • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                                                    • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                                                      • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                                                      • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                                                      • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                                                      • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                                                      • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                                                      • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                                                      • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                                                      • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                                                        • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                                                          • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                          • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                                                          • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                                            • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                                              • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                                              • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                                                • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                                                • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                                                      Contractions are acceptable in academic writing though since some teachers disagree you may have to adapt to different requirements The main problem apostrophes present for students is in showing possession The rule is simple mostlymdashuse an apostrophe followed by s for singular nouns and an apostrophe alone for plurals

                                                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                      The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                                      The Prime Ministers memoirs contain numerous inaccuracies

                                                                                                                      For now the conspirators aspirations survive For now the conspirators aspirations survive

                                                                                                                      Some writers use an apostrophe alone for nouns ending in s or z (as I did with species above) especially when the next word begins with the same sound But many teachers will mark this as wrong

                                                                                                                      There is one case where it is preferable to use an apostrophe without an s for multisyllabic names ending in s or z especially those of biblical and classical origin

                                                                                                                      Moses leadership

                                                                                                                      Socrates wisdom

                                                                                                                      Jesus teachings 9 Nouns ending in y

                                                                                                                      Nouns ending in y often produce similar confusion with regard to possession If you want to talk about something belonging to a country for instance write countrys not countries

                                                                                                                      8 Conjunction confusion

                                                                                                                      Conjunctions like and but and for join independent clauses I studied for hours but he never opened a bookmdashand we both got As Students often use however therefore and thus as if they were conjunctions too but they are not Theyre adverbs and cant connect independent clausesmdashyoull still need a semicolon or period

                                                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                      Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                                      Truth is a good thing however it is not the highest political good

                                                                                                                      Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                                                      Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                                                      Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                                                      Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                      Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                                                      Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                                                      6 Cannot

                                                                                                                      One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                                                      5 Affect and effect

                                                                                                                      Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                                                      She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                                                      For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                                                      She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                      A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                                                      A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                                                      4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                                                      Not intensive purposes

                                                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                      For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                                      For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                                      3 Plural or singular

                                                                                                                      It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                      The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                                      The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                                      Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                                                      2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                                                      Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                      Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                                                      Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                                                      Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                                                      principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                                                      principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                                                      1 Itsits

                                                                                                                      Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                      The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                                      The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                                      Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                                                      WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                      Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                                      Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                                      (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                                                      When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                                                      Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                                                      Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                                                      These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                                                      1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                                                      2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                                                      3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                                                      4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                                                      5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                                                      5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                                                      7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                                                      8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                                                      9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                                                      10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                                                      Why it matters

                                                                                                                      In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                                                      What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                                                      Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                                                      hink

                                                                                                                      • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                                                      • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                                                        • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                        • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                                                          • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                                                          • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                                                            • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                                                            • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                                              • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                                              • Antecedents
                                                                                                                              • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                                                • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                                                    • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                                                      • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                                                      • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                                                      • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                                                      • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                                                        • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                        • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                                                        • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                                                          • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                                                            • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                            • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                                                            • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                                                            • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                                                            • promptpdf
                                                                                                                                            • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                                                            • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                                              • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                                                • Improving writing
                                                                                                                                                • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                                                • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                                                    • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                                                      • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                                                        • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                                                        • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                                                        • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                                                        • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                                                        • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                                                        • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                                                        • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                                                        • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                                                          • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                                                            • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                            • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                                                            • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                                              • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                                                • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                                                • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                                                  • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                                                  • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                                                        Its usually more graceful however to place however therefore and similar words not right at the beginning but at some convenient pause later on

                                                                                                                        Truth is a good thing it is not however the highest political good 7 Infamy and notoriety

                                                                                                                        Infamous is not a fancy way of saying famous It means quite the opposite famously wicked or bad Churchill was famous Hitler was infamous

                                                                                                                        Likewise notoriety doesnt mean just being widely knownmdashit means being known for being bad (though in British as opposed to American usage this distinction doesnt hold) Calling someone with a record of hefty contributions to charity a notorious altruist is a gaffe

                                                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                        Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the notoriety it deserves

                                                                                                                        Although point-of-sales (POS) equipment was introduced over two decades ago it is only now receiving the attention it deserves

                                                                                                                        6 Cannot

                                                                                                                        One word not two (not can not)

                                                                                                                        5 Affect and effect

                                                                                                                        Many writers confuse these two words The common mistake is to use effect when you should use affect typically when using it as a verb Effect can be used as a verb but its meaning is restricted and is synonymous with produce

                                                                                                                        She effected a change in the way the IRS conducted its audits

                                                                                                                        For the sense of to have an effect upon use affect

                                                                                                                        She affected the IRSs procedures

                                                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                        A legacy of foreign rule significantly effects a nations political culture

                                                                                                                        A legacy of foreign rule significantly affects a nations political culture

                                                                                                                        4 Intents and purposes

                                                                                                                        Not intensive purposes

                                                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                        For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                                        For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                                        3 Plural or singular

                                                                                                                        It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                        The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                                        The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                                        Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                                                        2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                                                        Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                        Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                                                        Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                                                        Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                                                        principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                                                        principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                                                        1 Itsits

                                                                                                                        Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                        The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                                        The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                                        Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                                                        WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                        Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                                        Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                                        (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                                                        When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                                                        Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                                                        Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                                                        These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                                                        1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                                                        2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                                                        3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                                                        4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                                                        5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                                                        5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                                                        7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                                                        8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                                                        9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                                                        10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                                                        Why it matters

                                                                                                                        In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                                                        What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                                                        Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                                                        hink

                                                                                                                        • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                                                        • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                                                          • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                          • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                                                            • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                                                            • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                                                              • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                                                              • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                                                • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                                                • Antecedents
                                                                                                                                • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                                                  • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                                                      • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                                                        • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                                                        • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                                                        • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                                                        • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                                                          • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                          • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                                                          • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                                                            • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                                                              • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                              • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                                                              • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                                                              • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                                                              • promptpdf
                                                                                                                                              • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                                                              • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                                                • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                                                  • Improving writing
                                                                                                                                                  • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                                                  • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                                                      • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                                                        • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                                                          • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                                                          • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                                                          • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                                                          • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                                                          • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                                                          • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                                                          • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                                                          • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                                                            • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                                                              • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                              • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                                                              • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                                                • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                                                  • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                                                  • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                                                    • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                                                    • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                                                          Not intensive purposes

                                                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                          For all intensive purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                                          For all intents and purposes Microsoft has won the browser wars

                                                                                                                          3 Plural or singular

                                                                                                                          It or they In American English corporations and other collective entities are singular

                                                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                          The Limited has been experiencing problems with their Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                                          The Limited has been experiencing problems with its Limited Express and Lerner New York divisions

                                                                                                                          Criterion or criteria The former is singular the latter plural

                                                                                                                          2 Principalprinciple

                                                                                                                          Dont bother with that The principal is your pal stuff because thats not the usage that trips students up In terms of what causes problems principal is an adjective meaning foremost or most important while principle is a noun meaning fundamental law or guiding idea

                                                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                          Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principals of honesty and quality

                                                                                                                          Grand Forks Industrial Works was founded in 1917 on the basic business principles of honesty and quality

                                                                                                                          Heres how to remember the difference

                                                                                                                          principal a for adjective and the first or foremost letter

                                                                                                                          principle e for ethics or elementary rule

                                                                                                                          1 Itsits

                                                                                                                          Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                          The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                                          The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                                          Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                                                          WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                          Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                                          Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                                          (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                                                          When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                                                          Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                                                          Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                                                          These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                                                          1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                                                          2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                                                          3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                                                          4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                                                          5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                                                          5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                                                          7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                                                          8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                                                          9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                                                          10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                                                          Why it matters

                                                                                                                          In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                                                          What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                                                          Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                                                          hink

                                                                                                                          • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                                                          • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                                                            • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                            • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                                                              • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                                                              • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                                                                • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                                                                • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                                                  • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                                                  • Antecedents
                                                                                                                                  • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                                                    • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                                                        • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                                                          • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                                                          • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                                                          • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                                                          • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                                                            • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                            • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                                                            • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                                                              • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                                                                • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                                                                • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                                                                • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                                                                • promptpdf
                                                                                                                                                • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                                                                • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                                                  • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                                                    • Improving writing
                                                                                                                                                    • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                                                    • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                                                        • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                                                          • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                                                            • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                                                            • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                                                            • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                                                            • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                                                            • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                                                            • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                                                            • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                                                            • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                                                              • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                                                                • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                                • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                                                                • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                                                  • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                                                    • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                                                    • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                                                      • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                                                      • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                                                            Because apostrophes are used for possession as well as contraction many students get confused about the distinction between its and its The solution here is to remember that its is a contraction not a possessive Its = it is It like other pronouns (he his she her) doesnt take an apostrophe to show possession

                                                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                            The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                                            The essays comic tone clashes with its dark subject

                                                                                                                            Whos and whose have the same distinction

                                                                                                                            WRONG RIGHT

                                                                                                                            Sicinius whos modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                                            Sicinius whose modern equivalent would be a congressman accuses the old warrior of being a traitor

                                                                                                                            (Source The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing Michael Harvey)

                                                                                                                            When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                                                            Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                                                            Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                                                            These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                                                            1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                                                            2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                                                            3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                                                            4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                                                            5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                                                            5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                                                            7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                                                            8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                                                            9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                                                            10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                                                            Why it matters

                                                                                                                            In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                                                            What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                                                            Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                                                            hink

                                                                                                                            • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                                                            • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                                                              • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                              • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                                                                • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                                                                • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                                                                  • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                                                                  • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                                                    • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                                                    • Antecedents
                                                                                                                                    • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                                                      • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                                                          • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                                                            • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                                                            • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                                                            • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                                                            • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                                                              • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                              • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                                                              • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                                                                • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                                                                  • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                  • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                                                                  • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                                                                  • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                                                                  • promptpdf
                                                                                                                                                  • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                                                                  • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                                                    • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                                                      • Improving writing
                                                                                                                                                      • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                                                      • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                                                          • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                                                            • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                                                              • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                                                              • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                                                              • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                                                              • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                                                              • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                                                              • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                                                              • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                                                              • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                                                                • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                                                                  • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                                  • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                                                                  • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                                                    • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                                                      • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                                                      • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                                                        • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                                                        • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                                                              When a writer gets good at her craft she can make it seem easymdashalmost effortlessmdashto write elegant and well-thought-out prose But writing is never as easy as it seems when you read a polished piece of work Beneath the surface is a hidden history of struggle false starts and dead ends inarticulate and uncertain ideas laboriously worked into clear lucid sometimes lovely prose

                                                                                                                              Good writing like any craft is the product of training practice and persistence That can be discouraging but it should also encourage you if you persist if you work if you try you will become a better writer a good writer able to express your thoughts with elegance and clarity

                                                                                                                              Nuts and Bolts in a nutshell

                                                                                                                              These are rules of thumb not commandments Break them when you think you should but follow them most of the time

                                                                                                                              1 Be playful Dont lock yourself into a particular argument too quickly As you think and develop your ideas expect them to change and go in directions you hadnt anticipated Expect to be surprised by what you say

                                                                                                                              2 Build your thesis on a strong verb Try to sum up your argument in one clear active sentence

                                                                                                                              3 Develop a plain style characterized by active verbs and straightforward syntax Avoid big words being verbs the passive voice nominalizations and jargon

                                                                                                                              4 Be sensitive to the rhythm of your sentences Balance long against short fast against slow general against specific

                                                                                                                              5 Pay close attention to the beginnings and ends of paragraphs These are natural emphasis points

                                                                                                                              5 Remember that an argument unfolds in steps In essays the natural way to 6xpress these steps is in paragraphs (not to say that each logical unit = one paragraph) Make sure your paragraph structure is in sync with your argument

                                                                                                                              7 When youre done with the draft compare your initial claim with what you actually end up arguing over the course of the essay If your claim and the essay itself dont quite fit figure out how to reconcile them You may have strayed from the right pathmdashor you may have thought up a better approach Make sure to check back with the original assignmentmdashis your essay in tune with it

                                                                                                                              8 Consider your evidence Have you ended up using the best source material Have you pruned quotations so as to use only the most effective passages Have you woven your quotes into your paper Have you followed the formatting requirements for your course and field

                                                                                                                              9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                                                              10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                                                              Why it matters

                                                                                                                              In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                                                              What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                                                              Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                                                              hink

                                                                                                                              • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                                                              • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                                                                • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                                                                  • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                                                                  • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                                                                    • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                                                                    • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                                                      • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                                                      • Antecedents
                                                                                                                                      • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                                                        • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                                                            • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                                                              • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                                                              • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                                                              • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                                                              • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                                                                • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                                                                • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                                                                  • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                                                                    • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                    • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                                                                    • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                                                                    • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                                                                    • promptpdf
                                                                                                                                                    • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                                                                    • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                                                      • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                                                        • Improving writing
                                                                                                                                                        • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                                                        • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                                                            • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                                                              • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                                                                • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                                                                • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                                                                • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                                                                • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                                                                • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                                                                • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                                                                • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                                                                • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                                                                  • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                                                                    • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                                    • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                                                                    • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                                                      • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                                                        • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                                                        • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                                                          • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                                                          • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                                                                9 Now that youre done polish your beginning and ending Fast start and strong ending

                                                                                                                                10 When you (think you) are done spell-check the document Also print out a draft and read it pencil in hand expecting to find mistakes Youll find them

                                                                                                                                Why it matters

                                                                                                                                In the end other peoples rules and advice can only do so much Over the long term the best thing you can do to become a better writer is to read a lot and develop your own judgment and skill Read stories newspaper and magazine articles novels poetry bureaucratic forms email online stuff magazine ads cereal boxes movie reviews whatever Youll find lots of good writing and lots of bad writingmdashand once you have a bit of a critical eye you can learn useful lessons from everything you encounter

                                                                                                                                What about one of the staples of college life textbooks Are they useful Actually whatever the subject in terms of writing textbooks tend to give you lessons in what not to do since they are usually written by committee in as inoffensive and bland a style as possible Textbooks also become with each new piecemeal revision (there are tremendous competitive pressures to revise every year) ever more shapeless heaps of words For better models ask your teachers to recommend their favorite books in their fields Eventually you should build a storehouse of good writing that you can draw on regularly

                                                                                                                                Above all just read read read Learn to stop worrying and just love words In the end write for yourselfmdashwrite to twrite to learn write to become a wiser and better person

                                                                                                                                hink

                                                                                                                                • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                                                                • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                                                                  • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                  • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                                                                    • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                                                                    • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                                                                      • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                                                                      • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                                                        • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                                                        • Antecedents
                                                                                                                                        • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                                                          • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                                                              • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                                                                • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                                                                • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                                                                • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                                                                • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                                                                  • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                  • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                                                                  • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                                                                    • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                                                                      • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                      • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                                                                      • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                                                                      • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                                                                      • promptpdf
                                                                                                                                                      • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                                                                      • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                                                        • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                                                          • Improving writing
                                                                                                                                                          • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                                                          • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                                                              • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                                                                • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                                                                  • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                                                                  • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                                                                  • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                                                                  • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                                                                  • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                                                                  • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                                                                  • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                                                                  • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                                                                    • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                                                                      • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                                      • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                                                                      • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                                                        • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                                                          • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                                                          • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                                                            • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                                                            • 2006Bpdf
                                                                                                                                  • AP Review coverdoc
                                                                                                                                  • APMCPacketpdf
                                                                                                                                    • AP MC Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                    • TypesofMCQuestionsdoc
                                                                                                                                      • Questions on the whole passage
                                                                                                                                      • Questions on specific parts of the passage
                                                                                                                                        • Analysis of a paragraph
                                                                                                                                        • Analysis of words or phrases
                                                                                                                                          • Grammatical constructions
                                                                                                                                          • Antecedents
                                                                                                                                          • Relating one part of the passage to another part
                                                                                                                                            • Vocabulary in context
                                                                                                                                                • MCVocabdoc
                                                                                                                                                  • Literary TermsRhetorical StrategiesAnalysisPurpose
                                                                                                                                                  • ToneStyle Words
                                                                                                                                                  • Grammatical Construction
                                                                                                                                                  • General Vocabulary
                                                                                                                                                    • MC_Passage for Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                    • Sample Footnote Questionsdoc
                                                                                                                                                    • ScorCalculpdf
                                                                                                                                                      • APAnalysisPacketpdf
                                                                                                                                                        • AP Analysis Essay Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                        • Rhetoricdoc
                                                                                                                                                        • Rhetorical Strategiesdoc
                                                                                                                                                        • Rhetorical Modesdoc
                                                                                                                                                        • promptpdf
                                                                                                                                                        • Annotating Textdoc
                                                                                                                                                        • Syntaxdoc
                                                                                                                                                          • SYNTAX
                                                                                                                                                            • Improving writing
                                                                                                                                                            • Analyzing our own use of syntax is probably the more difficult of these tasks As we learn language when we are very small we internalize the rules of grammar For example we learn that saying Me up Mama is more likely to get us held by mother than Up Mama me By the time a student is in high school she has been speaking English for quite a number of years and is quite effective at basic communication tasks
                                                                                                                                                            • Analyzing syntax in literature
                                                                                                                                                                • Diction and Tonedoc
                                                                                                                                                                  • Diction and Tone
                                                                                                                                                                    • VERBS TO USE IN AP WRITINGdoc
                                                                                                                                                                    • Linking Words and Phrasesdoc
                                                                                                                                                                    • TRANSITIONSdoc
                                                                                                                                                                    • Embedding Quotesdoc
                                                                                                                                                                    • Argumentationdoc
                                                                                                                                                                    • Argumentvocabdoc
                                                                                                                                                                    • APPEALINGTOYOURAUDIENCEdoc
                                                                                                                                                                    • Logical Fallaciesdoc
                                                                                                                                                                      • APSynandGenpdf
                                                                                                                                                                        • AP Synthesis Reviewpdf
                                                                                                                                                                        • THE SYNTHESIS ESSAYdoc
                                                                                                                                                                        • Howtoimproveyouressaywritinggradedoc
                                                                                                                                                                          • EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WRITING THE EXEMPLARY AP MULTI-PARAGRAPH ESSAY
                                                                                                                                                                            • TopTen Mistakesdoc
                                                                                                                                                                            • In a Nutshelldoc
                                                                                                                                                                              • 2005Bpdf
                                                                                                                                                                              • 2006Bpdf

                                                                                                                                    top related