If you’re preparing for the AP Lang exam, reading a variety of essays is essential. Not only will this help you improve your writing skills, but it will also expose you to different styles and approaches to writing.
Here are a few essays that are often recommended for AP Lang students:
1. “The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner” by Alan Sillitoe
This short story follows the experience of a young man named Colin who is sent to a reform school after being caught stealing. Colin is a talented runner, and he uses his running as a way to escape his loneliness and isolation. The story explores the themes of alienation, loneliness, and the search for freedom.
2. “The Night Oak” by Joan Didion
This essay is a reflection on the author’s childhood and her relationship with her father. Didion writes about the loss of her father and the way that his death affected her. The essay is a beautiful and moving exploration of the themes of grief, loss, and memory.
3. “Why I Write” by George Orwell
This essay is a classic piece of writing about the craft of writing. Orwell discusses his motivations for writing, and he offers some advice to aspiring writers. The essay is a great read for anyone who is interested in writing, and it offers some valuable insights into the process of writing.
4. “The Elements of Style” by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White
This book is a classic guide to writing style. Strunk and White offer a number of rules and suggestions for writing clear, concise, and effective prose. The book is a valuable resource for any writer, and it is a must-read for AP Lang students.
5. “On Writing Well” by William Zinsser
This book is another classic guide to writing. Zinsser offers a practical approach to writing, and he covers a wide range of topics, including grammar, punctuation, and style. The book is a great read for any writer, and it is a valuable resource for AP Lang students.
In addition to these essays, there are a number of other great essays that you can read to prepare for the AP Lang exam. Your teacher may recommend some specific essays, or you can find a list of recommended essays online.
No matter what essays you choose to read, make sure that you take the time to analyze them carefully. Pay attention to the author’s style, the use of language, and the overall structure of the essay. The more you analyze essays, the better you will be able to write your own.
Conclusion
Reading a variety of essays is essential for preparing for the AP Lang exam. By reading different styles and approaches to writing, you will improve your writing skills and expose yourself to new ideas. The essays listed above are a great place to start, but there are many other great essays that you can read. Make sure to take the time to analyze the essays you read, and you will be well on your way to success on the AP Lang exam.
Additional Tips for Reading Essays for AP Lang
- Read actively. Don’t just skim the surface of the essay. Take the time to read carefully and analyze the author’s style, the use of language, and the overall structure of the essay.
- Take notes. As you read, take notes on the key points of the essay. This will help you remember the essay later, and it will also help you to identify the author’s main arguments and claims.
- Discuss the essay with others. Talking about the essay with other students or your teacher can help you to understand the essay more deeply. You can share your own insights and learn from the insights of others.
- Write about the essay. One of the best ways to understand an essay is to write about it. This will help you to process the essay and to develop your own thoughts and ideas about the topic.