Achieving Success on the AP Exam Last-Minute Tips: Achieving Success on the AP Exam

Before the test Get a good night’s sleep Don’t cram information or stay up late beforehand Prep should include reviewing notes, reviewing old essays (w/rubric feedback), and rhetorical terms Come to the breakfast to socialize, relax, and support one another Show up on time (6:45—7:30); rushing and showing up late only creates anxiety Go to the bathroom before the test Practice mindfulness exercises at home

Bring to the test Bring a blue or black pen for essay writing Bring a pencil for the multiple-choice section Bring your ID card, just in case Bring a snack to eat during the 15 min. break Know your room number Bring a simple watch, or make sure the room’s clock is in your line of sight

Format of the test (Traditional) First half: multiple-choice section (1 hour) This section usually has 50—55 questions Count the number of reading passages, and gauge how much time you need to spend on each passage Break (usu. 15 min.)—Do NOT visit Afram Second half: essay writing (2 hours and 15 minutes) 15 minutes to read the synthesis documents and the rhetorical analysis document 2 hours to write 3 essays, or 40 minutes/essay Always make an outline Remember to pace yourself

Synthesis reminders Outline your thoughts Cite at least 2 DIFFERENT sources per body paragraph Have strong topic sentences that argue a position or make a point Use quotation marks (“ ”) around articles and essays and underline (____________) books and films. Only cite examples from the documents provided DO NOT start your topic sentences with examples!

Argument reminders Make an outline! Remember that this is a persuasive essay; have strong topic sentences, and make specific points Use of “I” and “me” is acceptable, but don’t over-do it. Avoid the use of “you” Personal examples are acceptable, but also cite class literature or current events Don’t start a paragraph with an example!

Rhetorical analysis reminders OUTLINE your essay Have strong topic sentences that argue your position Only cite examples from the passage Don’t just cite rhetorical terms/strategies; explain them and show how they develop the writer’s argument. After identifying a strategy, explain its effect