AP Test: The Open Essay

Rapert/AP Lit

Style of questionEssay on a theme provided using support from your won readingOften considered the most difficult questionYOU MUST STUDY and PREPARE AHEAD of TIMEUse all techniques I’ve shown: Idea machine, classic question, etcChoose at least two substantial works

What AP wants from you and type of themes:They want to see if you can analyze a long work you’ve read previouslyOpen essay is truly OPEN and broadTypes of themes:

Discuss the function of a character who does not appear or appears only briefly in a novel, and yet is significant to the work.Discuss the function of a character who serves as the main character’s sympathetic confidantDiscuss a scene or character that provokes “thoughtful laughter”Discuss a novel or play in which much of the “action” occurs internally, within the consciousness of the characters.Discuss the use of contrasting settings within a novel.

Advice on themes and preparation:

Themes are very broadCan be applied to many different worksKey is to choose the right work for the theme givenKNOW AT LEAT TWO MAJOR WORKS EXTRAORDINARILY WELL

KNOW A THIRD SHORTER WORK OR PLAY**READ THEM AGAINREWRITE NOTESSTUDY LITERARY CRITICISMS

Choosing your works

Must be recognized classics or of literary meritMust be rich in incident and formChoose varied works

If you choose Hamlet, do not also choose Mac BethIf you choose Dickens, also choose a modern workBalance between tragedy and comedy, women and menNovellas (Metamorphosis) and plays work for third choices

Write the first paragraph of your essay

Ask the classic question: What literary devices (imagery, tone, point of view, plot, etc.) does the author use to convey his themes?Ask: What does the work mean?Ask: What was the emotional impact of the work? How was it achieved?Do an intro paragraph on these issues for each work.

Doing so will make actual test day much easier.

Recall the idea machine:1. What is the meaning of the work?

What is the literal, face-value meaning of the work?What is the feeling evoked by the work?

2. How does the author get that meaning across?

What are the important images in the work and what do they suggest?What specific words or phrases produce the strongest feelings?What elements are in opposition (contrast or conflict)?

Begin preparation NOW!!!!