1. Responding to the Prose Prompt
AP English Literature

2. The Prompt is the thing. . . Carefully read the prompt
What are you asked to analyze?
Spend 1-3 minutes reading and circling/underlining key words in the prompt? (do this before reading the passage)
Use the prompt to guide your reading of the passage
Character analysis
Thematic focus
****How do the devices contribute to that purpose?

3. Reading/Planning Allow 5 minutes to read and annotate the passage
As you read, mark elements/devices/short passages that will help you answer the prompt.
Read with purpose!
i.e. If you are asked to consider how the author reveals character, what parts of the passage help bring the character to light?

4. Introduction: You Gotta Wow ‘Em
3-4 sentences
Acknowledge author’s full name and title of work
Answer the question!
What is revealed about the character?
What is the theme?
You don’t have to list the devices, but it’s not about idea to offer a “such as…” statement.

5. Body paragraphs Strong topic sentences (do not summarize the passage)
Incorporate evidence into your own prose (embed quotes)
Blend the evidence with your analysis. Don’t just quote; offer commentary!
Do not start or end the paragraph with a quote.
Refer to the prompt. Does the paragraph support the answer?
Remember you need not write a conclusion IF you are making judgments throughout the piece.
Read as you go!

6. Writing reminders Maintain an academic voice
Do not use “cutesy” or slang phrases
Check you writing as you go. Fix obvious errors (fragments, etc).
Do not use the essay to write about general ideas or universal truths. You can certainly point out the broader impacts, but the argument needs to be controlled by specific discussion of the passage.
Like the poetry essay, you must write only about the passage. Anything else is a waste of time. (avoid forays into history, economics, etc.—connect only what is necessary for the purpose of the passage.)

7. Frankenstein Prompt What are you being asked to address?
Meaning: the impression of the creature as a baby learning about the world
Method: various techniques employed by the author

8. Sample thesis
Through a first person perspective and descriptive imagery, Shelley creates a poignant vision of the creature’s infancy and helplessness as he struggles to unearth his identity in the absence of a benevolent and just creator.