The Difference Between AP English Language and Composition and AP English Literature and Composition
Understand the key differences between AP English Language and Composition and AP English Literature and Composition. Learn which AP English course aligns with your strengths and academic goals.
Advanced Placement (AP) English courses offer high school students the opportunity to engage in college-level coursework. Two of the most commonly offered AP English courses are AP English Language and Composition and AP English Literature and Composition. While both courses focus on reading and writing, they differ significantly in content, skills emphasized, and assessment methods.
Course Content and Focus
AP English Language and Composition
This course emphasizes the analysis of nonfiction texts, including essays, speeches, memoirs, and news articles. Students develop skills in crafting evidence-based arguments, analyzing rhetorical strategies, and understanding how authors use language to persuade and inform. The focus is on effective communication and the practical application of writing skills.
AP English Literature and Composition
In contrast, this course centers on the analysis of imaginative literature, such as novels, short stories, poetry, and plays. Students explore themes, character development, and literary devices to interpret and analyze texts. The emphasis is on critical thinking and literary analysis, with a focus on understanding how authors create meaning through their use of language.
Skills Developed
AP English Language and Composition
Students in this course develop skills in:
- Analyzing nonfiction texts for rhetorical strategies
- Crafting persuasive and argumentative essays
- Understanding the use of evidence and reasoning in writing
- Developing a clear and coherent writing style
AP English Literature and Composition
Students in this course develop skills in:
- Analyzing literary elements such as theme, character, and setting
- Interpreting the use of literary devices like metaphor and symbolism
- Writing analytical essays about literary works
- Engaging in close reading and critical thinking
Exam Structure and Assessment
Both AP English exams consist of multiple-choice questions and free-response sections. However, the content and focus of these sections differ:
AP English Language and Composition Exam
- Multiple-Choice Section: Focuses on analyzing nonfiction texts for rhetorical strategies and understanding the author’s use of language.
- Free-Response Section: Includes three essays: a synthesis essay, a rhetorical analysis essay, and an argumentative essay. Students are required to develop arguments supported by evidence and analyze the use of language in various texts.
AP English Literature and Composition Exam
- Multiple-Choice Section: Focuses on analyzing excerpts from literary works, including poetry, prose fiction, and drama.
- Free-Response Section: Includes three essays: an analysis of a given poem, an analysis of a prose excerpt, and an analysis of a work of literary merit chosen by the student. Students are required to demonstrate their ability to analyze and interpret literary texts.
Which Course Should You Choose?
The decision between AP English Language and Composition and AP English Literature and Composition depends on your interests, strengths, and academic goals:
- Choose AP English Language and Composition if you enjoy analyzing nonfiction texts, developing persuasive arguments, and focusing on effective communication skills. This course is beneficial for students interested in fields such as journalism, law, and communications.
- Choose AP English Literature and Composition if you have a passion for reading and analyzing literature, enjoy exploring themes and literary devices, and want to develop skills in literary analysis. This course is ideal for students interested in careers in education, writing, and literary analysis.
Conclusion
Both AP English courses offer valuable skills and insights, but they cater to different interests and strengths. Consider your academic goals, interests, and the skills you wish to develop when choosing between AP English Language and Composition and AP English Literature and Composition. Whichever course you choose, both will provide a strong foundation in reading and writing that will benefit you in college and beyond.