Summary
Highlights
The argument essay is the third question on the AP Language and Composition test, requiring students to take a position and argue it using their own knowledge. Prompts are typically broad, focusing on literary or rhetorical concepts, allowing for diverse perspectives and examples.
The essay is scored based on a six-point rubric: thesis (1 point), evidence and commentary (4 points), and sophistication (1 point). For the thesis, it's crucial to present a defensible and arguable position that directly responds to the prompt, avoiding equivocation or general discussion.
When writing, adopt a tone of participation in a conversation rather than an adversary. Avoid ranting, personal attacks, and consider your audience to be open-minded and academically oriented, willing to consider an informed opinion.
After the thesis, establish at least two, but ideally up to four, supporting claims. These claims should form a clear and coherent line of reasoning, building upon each other with strong, logical transitions to create an interconnected argument.
Unlike the synthesis essay, evidence for the argument essay must come entirely from your own knowledge. This may include facts and statistics, but other reliable sources are often easier to access during the test.
Recommended evidence sources include: historical examples (e.g., JFK-Nixon debate), contemporary events (e.g., modern presidential debates), personal experience (specific, illustrative anecdotes), literature (classic and popular fiction like Huckleberry Finn or Harry Potter), academic texts (concepts from other classes like psychology), and academic theories (e.g., Stephen Toulmin's model of argumentation).
Providing evidence is not enough; you must also offer commentary that explicitly explains how each piece of evidence supports your thesis. This connection should be made at every level of your argument, linking subclaims back to the main thesis.
Sophistication, or complexity, is earned by demonstrating and understanding of the rhetorical situation. This involves crafting a nuanced argument, exploring complexities and tensions within the topic, and addressing the implications and broader context of your argument.
While grammar and punctuation should be clean, avoid spending excessive time editing as the essay is scored as a rough draft. Write clearly and concisely the first time. The conclusion should be brief (one or two sentences), restating the thesis in different words and ending with a strong, satisfying statement.