AP English Language and Composition

Words can change and shape the course of history, as students learn in AP English Language and Composition. This intensive course pushes students to extend their critical thinking skills beyond literature to the visual and textual media of today’s culture. Analyzing the sometimes subtle differences between a logical argument and calculated manipulation, students examine a variety of genres, ranging from political cartoons and modern advertisements to diverse essays, speeches, and letters. Inspired by the organization, style, and grammatical structure of great communicators as guidance for their own writing, students will mature beyond formulaic writing patterns, developing their own unique and persuasive voice. 

Additional Expectations: A summer reading assignment is required, and the class workload and expectations are intended to prepare students for college application essays, college-level analysis, and college writing.

Summer reading for AP English Language and Composition students: Surprised by Joy: The Shape of My Early Life (click), and complete a short assignment (will be sent at the end of May). These are both due on the first day of class in August.


Course Number 0153
Grade Level 11, 12
Pre-Requisite Grade of B or higher in English 10 Honors or grade of A in English 10. Students must complete a summer assignment. 
Application and/or Audition Date None
Credits 10
VCHS Graduation Credit English
UC Approval Yes Area B (English)
Fees AP Exam Fee