The Advanced Placement (AP) Literature and Composition exam is a rigorous assessment that evaluates students’ comprehension, analysis, and writing skills in relation to literary works. The 2023 iteration of the exam will feature a range of challenging Free Response Questions (FRQs) that require students to demonstrate their mastery of the subject.
Understanding the FRQs
The AP Literature 2023 FRQs are designed to test students’ ability to:
- Analyze Literary Elements: Identify and explain the effects of literary devices, such as imagery, metaphor, and symbolism.
- Interpret Meaning: Understand and convey the intended meaning of a literary work, including its themes, characters, and setting.
- Write Effectively: Communicate their interpretations clearly and persuasively, using appropriate language and evidence from the text.
Preparation Strategies
To excel on the AP Literature 2023 FRQs, students should consider the following preparation strategies:
- Close Reading: Practice reading literary works with a critical eye, paying attention to details, patterns, and potential interpretations.
- Note-Taking: Develop an effective system for taking notes on key literary elements, themes, and potential essay topics.
- Practice Analyses: Write practice essays in response to FRQ prompts, seeking feedback from teachers or peers to improve their analysis and writing skills.
- Time Management: Learn to manage time effectively by planning out their FRQ responses and allocating appropriate time for each question.
Sample FRQs
Below are two sample AP Literature 2023 FRQs to provide students with an overview of the types of questions they may encounter:
Question 1 (Poetry):
Analyze the use of figurative language in the poem “The Raven” by Edgar Allan Poe. How does Poe’s use of imagery, metaphor, and other devices contribute to the poem’s atmosphere of mystery and despair?
Question 2 (Prose):
Discuss the character development of Holden Caulfield in the novel “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger. How does Holden’s journey of self-discovery reflect the challenges and anxieties faced by adolescents?
Tips for Answering FRQs
- Thoroughly read the prompt and identify the specific requirements.
- Organize your thoughts and ideas logically before writing.
- Provide specific evidence from the text to support your claims.
- Use clear and concise language.
- Proofread your responses carefully before submitting them.
Resources
Numerous resources are available to support students in their preparation for the AP Literature 2023 FRQs:
- Official AP Literature Course and Exam Description: https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/courses/ap-english-literature-and-composition
- AP Literature Question Bank: https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/exam-administration-ordering-scores/ap-question-bank
- Online Forums and Discussion Groups: Join online communities where students and teachers discuss FRQ topics and strategies.
Q: When is the AP Literature 2023 exam?
A: The AP Literature 2023 exam will be held on May 9, 2023.
Q: How long is the exam?
A: The exam consists of two sections: a 75-minute multiple-choice section and a 135-minute FRQ section.
Q: How many FRQs are there?
A: There are three FRQs: one poetry analysis, one prose analysis, and one synthesis essay.
Q: What is the best way to prepare for the FRQs?
A: Close reading, note-taking, practice analyses, and time management are key strategies for effective preparation.
Q: What resources are available to me for preparation?
A: The College Board website, AP Literature Question Bank, and online forums provide valuable resources for preparation.
Q: What are the common pain points for students on the FRQs?
A: Lack of time management, difficulty analyzing complex literary elements, and inadequate evidence support are common pain points.
Q: What are the motivations for doing well on the AP Literature exam?
A: College credit, exemption from college English courses, and improved writing and critical thinking skills are potential motivations.