English Language and Composition Exam Essay Structure and Organization

Question 1

In the AP Lang argument essay, the primary purpose of the introduction is to:

Accepted Answer

Establish context and present a clear, defensible thesis

Answer

The introduction's main job is to orient the reader and present a specific, arguable thesis that will guide the entire essay.

Question 2

Which sentence type is most effective as the first sentence of a body paragraph in an AP Lang essay?

Accepted Answer

A topic sentence that makes a specific claim supporting the thesis

Answer

A strong topic sentence states the paragraph's main claim and connects it to the thesis, orienting the reader before evidence is introduced.

Question 3

What does 'commentary' refer to in the context of AP Lang body paragraph structure?

Accepted Answer

The writer's analysis explaining how evidence supports the claim

Answer

Commentary is the writer's own analytical sentences that explain why and how the evidence supports the paragraph's claim and the thesis.

Question 4

The AP Lang rhetorical analysis essay is scored on which three skill areas?

Accepted Answer

Thesis, evidence/commentary, and sophistication

Answer

The AP Lang rubric awards points for a defensible thesis (1pt), evidence and commentary (4pts), and sophistication (1pt).

Question 5

A 'line of reasoning' in an AP Lang essay refers to:

Accepted Answer

A logically sequenced set of claims that builds toward the thesis

Answer

A line of reasoning is the logical progression of claims across body paragraphs that collectively support and develop the thesis.

English Language and Composition Exam Practice Test