The AP English Language and Composition Test covers rhetorical and composition skills using a multiple choice section and an essay section. The exam tests your ability to discern how authors construct effective arguments in different kinds of writing and how well you use rhetorical tools to craft effective writing yourself in three separate essays.
Assessment: You start tutoring by taking an assessment exam so we know your strengths and weaknesses. You complete a practice multiple choice test and write a practice essay for each of the three essay questions. (In addition, if you are taking an AP English class in school, you can share essays you have written for class with me.) This helps us to focus on the right areas to make the best use of your time.
Multiple Choice: Because the Multiple Choice section is worth 45% of the total score, we work on it throughout our tutoring sessions. You have access to custom resources, such as Quizlet flash cards, handouts with test-taking strategies, and practice tests with answers explained. By taking practice tests and working through why one answer is more right than another, you master questions that might have stumped you. You learn strategies for making informed guesses.You become familiar with the types of questions asked, so you will be confident when taking the test in May.
Essay Section: Each of the three AP English essays tests for different skills, so we take each one separately, starting with Synthesis, then Rhetoric, then Argument. For all three, scoring well consists of mastering two components: coming up with something to say, and then saying it well. You practice both content and delivery for all three essay prompts.
Three Types of AP English Essays
For Synthesis Essay, you learn to:
For Rhetoric Essay, you learn to:
For Argument Essay, you learn to:
For all of the essays, we will also cover proper grammar and writing techniques as well as ways to make your language stronger.
As part of my coaching, I work with you to develop study habits that enable you to put in the time and effort needed, considering your current level, goals, and competing interests. I motivate you to focus on what you need to study to score well. Scheduled assignments and consultations based on your individual needs ensure you are prepared by the test date in May.
A typical weekly tutoring session consists of an assignment and resources emailed at the beginning of the week followed up by an in-person or phone consult at the end of the week. The assignment will include some Multiple Choice practice as well as an Essay Prompt. Completing it may require one – two hour(s) on your own, and the one-on-one consultation requires 45 minutes. My approach is individualized to each student. You receive your essay with corrections and comments via Google Docs, and we also discuss everything in person or on the phone. We work on the areas you need most so you make the most efficient use of your time.
I welcome questions from both students and parents at any time. Because parents are usually the ones paying for my services, I keep them in the loop by copying them on emails. Students who improve the most are those who take ownership of the process. My role as tutor and coach is to provide resources, direction, feedback and encouragement.
To schedule tutoring sessions, please Email Me, letting me know your grade level, whether you are taking an AP class or not (both is fine), what day of the week works best for you, and the best way to contact you.
About me: Because I specialize in tutoring exclusively for these three English tests, I have the specific resources and expertise you need. I have a Master’s in Journalism from UC Berkeley and have worked for newspapers, businesses, government, and higher education. Married to a college professor, with two kids in college, I am familiar with the challenges of preparing for AP, IB, and SAT tests while juggling other work and applying to college. I also tutor writing for academic subjects and help students edit and strengthen their college entrance essays.
If you are looking for a top AP English tutor in Claremont CA 91711, the San Gabriel Valley, Orange County, Pasadena or surrounding areas, we can meet in person or work remotely. If you live in another area, all my tutoring can be done online and on the phone. Contact me.
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