Preparing for the AP* English Language and Composition Exam from edX

This course is designed to help students become skilled readers and writers through engagement with the following course requirements:

Composing in several forms (e.g., narrative, expository, analytical, and argumentative essays) about a variety of subjects

Writing that proceeds through several stages or drafts, with revision aided by teacher and peers

Writing informally (e.g., imitation exercises, journal keeping, collaborative writing), which helps students become aware of themselves as writers and the techniques employed by other writers

Writing expository, analytical, and argumentative compositions based on readings representing a variety of prose styles and genres

Reading nonfiction (e.g., essays, journalism, science writing, autobiographies, criticism)

Analyzing graphics and visual images both in relation to written texts and as alternative forms of text themselves

Developing research skills and the ability to evaluate, use, and cite primary and secondary sources

Conducting research and writing argument papers in which students present an argument of their own that includes the analysis and synthesis of ideas from an array of sources

Citing sources using a recognized editorial style (e.g., Modern Language Association, The Chicago Manual of Style)

Revising work to develop:

A wide-ranging vocabulary used appropriately and effectively;

A variety of sentence structures, including appropriate use of subordination and coordination;

Logical organization, enhanced by techniques such as repetition, transitions, and emphasis;

A balance of generalization and specific, illustrative detail; and

An effective use of rhetoric, including tone, voice, diction, and sentence structure.

Learn more about our High School and AP* Exam Preparation Courses

Advanced Placement and AP are registered trademarks of the College Board, which was not involved in the production of, and does not endorse, these offerings.

What you'll learn

To analyze different types of texts
To write for a variety of purposes
To understand and employ rhetorical strategies
To evaluate and incorporate sources into researched arguments
To prepare for the AP English Composition exam

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores different types of writing, a core skill for students

Develops analytical skills, critical for academic success

Taught by renowned instructors, Shelly Ganter, Dr. Martha Michieka, Candyce Sweet, Cindy Williams, and Martha Michieka

Examines a range of prose styles and genres, enriching learners' perspectives

Covers advanced essay composition techniques, enhancing writing abilities

Career center

Learners who complete Preparing for the AP* English Language and Composition Exam will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Technical Writer

Technical Writers create user guides, instructional materials, and other documentation that explains complex technical information. They must be able to analyze complex information, write clearly and concisely, and understand the needs of their audience. The Preparing for the AP English Language and Composition Exam course provides a strong foundation in these skills, helping students to develop the critical thinking, writing, and research skills necessary to succeed as a Technical Writer.

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Content Writer

Content Writers create digital content such as blog posts, articles, and website copy. They must be able to write engaging and informative content that is tailored to the needs of their audience. The Preparing for the AP English Language and Composition Exam course provides a strong foundation in these skills, helping students to develop the writing, research, and critical thinking skills necessary to succeed as a Content Writer.

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Copywriter

Copywriters create marketing and advertising materials such as slogans, taglines, and brochures. They must be able to write clear and persuasive copy that meets the needs of their clients. The Preparing for the AP English Language and Composition Exam course provides a strong foundation in these skills, helping students to develop the writing, research, and critical thinking skills necessary to succeed as a Copywriter.

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Public Relations Specialist

Public Relations Specialists manage the public image of their clients, organizations, or brands. They must be able to write press releases, speeches, and other materials that communicate their clients' messages to the public. The Preparing for the AP English Language and Composition Exam course provides a strong foundation in these skills, helping students to develop the writing, research, and critical thinking skills necessary to succeed as a Public Relations Specialist.

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Journalist

Journalists write news articles, feature stories, and other content for newspapers, magazines, and websites. They must be able to research, write, and edit their own work, and they must be able to meet deadlines. The Preparing for the AP English Language and Composition Exam course provides a strong foundation in these skills, helping students to develop the writing, research, and critical thinking skills necessary to succeed as a Journalist.

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Editor

Editors review, edit, and proofread written content for errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation. They may also work with authors to improve the clarity and flow of their writing. The Preparing for the AP English Language and Composition Exam course provides a strong foundation in these skills, helping students to develop the critical thinking, writing, and research skills necessary to succeed as an Editor.

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Speechwriter

Speechwriters write speeches for politicians, business leaders, and other public figures. They must be able to research, write, and edit speeches that are persuasive, informative, and engaging. The Preparing for the AP English Language and Composition Exam course provides a strong foundation in these skills, helping students to develop the writing, research, and critical thinking skills necessary to succeed as a Speechwriter.

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Marketing Manager

Marketing Managers develop and execute marketing campaigns for products and services. They must be able to write marketing plans, create marketing materials, and manage marketing budgets. The Preparing for the AP English Language and Composition Exam course provides a strong foundation in these skills, helping students to develop the writing, research, and critical thinking skills necessary to succeed as a Marketing Manager.

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Grant Writer

Grant Writers write grant proposals to secure funding for nonprofit organizations and other causes. They must be able to research, write, and edit grant proposals that are persuasive and well-organized. The Preparing for the AP English Language and Composition Exam course provides a strong foundation in these skills, helping students to develop the writing, research, and critical thinking skills necessary to succeed as a Grant Writer.

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Policy Analyst

Policy Analysts research and analyze public policy issues. They write reports and make recommendations to policymakers. The Preparing for the AP English Language and Composition Exam course provides a strong foundation in these skills, helping students to develop the writing, research, and critical thinking skills necessary to succeed as a Policy Analyst.

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Lawyer

Lawyers research, write, and argue legal cases. They must be able to analyze complex legal issues and communicate their findings in a clear and persuasive manner. The Preparing for the AP English Language and Composition Exam course provides a strong foundation in these skills, helping students to develop the writing, research, and critical thinking skills necessary to succeed as a Lawyer.

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Teacher

Teachers plan and deliver lessons to students. They must be able to communicate effectively, both in writing and verbally. The Preparing for the AP English Language and Composition Exam course provides a strong foundation in these skills, helping students to develop the writing, research, and critical thinking skills necessary to succeed as a Teacher.

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Professor

Professors teach and conduct research at colleges and universities. They must be able to write and publish scholarly articles, as well as teach effectively. The Preparing for the AP English Language and Composition Exam course provides a strong foundation in these skills, helping students to develop the writing, research, and critical thinking skills necessary to succeed as a Professor.

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Librarian

Librarians help people find and use information. They must be able to research, organize, and communicate information effectively. The Preparing for the AP English Language and Composition Exam course provides a strong foundation in these skills, helping students to develop the writing, research, and critical thinking skills necessary to succeed as a Librarian.

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Archivist

Archivists preserve and manage historical documents and artifacts. They must be able to research, organize, and communicate information effectively. The Preparing for the AP English Language and Composition Exam course provides a strong foundation in these skills, helping students to develop the writing, research, and critical thinking skills necessary to succeed as an Archivist.

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Preparing for the AP* English Language and Composition Exam

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