Essay Sample: AP English Language Synthesis

Essay Sample: AP English Language SynthesisThe AP English Language Synthesis (ES) exam tests the ability of students to use a common language to create an essay that is coherent, well organized and well written. A score on this test can impact many areas of your life. While scores on the state standardized tests will vary from one area to another, the fact remains that you will need a high score on the AP English Synthesis exam to gain admission to one of the nation's finest universities. Here are some helpful AP English Language Synthesis essay samples:* The first three sentences of an ES are the most important part of the essay and therefore should be carefully constructed. Your first sentence should express your thesis. Do not write several sentences without clearly stating your thesis. Finally, do not spend too much time on your introduction. Your opening paragraph should begin with a brief introduction, perhaps a single sentence, and conclude with your thesis statement.* Your co nclusion should answer the question or points raised in your introduction. Your conclusion also includes a justification for your thesis. When writing a conclusion, think of questions and solutions. You should never jump ahead to your next essay because you have already answered one or more of the points raised in your introduction. Your conclusion is only a tip of the hat to your introduction.* When writing an essay on the use of British English, consider all the British words that are used to describe objects, concepts, events, people, or activities. You can include a great deal of word usage in your English essay and be sure to use them correctly. Your essay should be complete if you can demonstrate that you understand and use these words correctly.* Since so many courses in American colleges today offer courses in English, including AP English, you will find that many of your classmates in college are from overseas. This does not mean that you will need to speak perfect English to be accepted by these colleges. It simply means that you may be asked to write in English.* Part of writing good English is knowing when and how to quote. In the American English standards, 'as a matter of course' is a term of art that is used in the first sentence of an essay. In these AP English Synthesis essays, the first sentence will always be, 'As a matter of course...' Your student writing will also often quote items from the dictionary. If you do not wish to use the dictionary, you should be able to substitute from your own knowledge of the English language.* Many American students also want to use their native language in their AP English Synthesis papers. You will find that this is a perfectly acceptable practice. If you are asked to write an essay on American geography, for example, you should try to write it in American English but include the names of places in your native language.* It is important to realize that your own work is better than anyone else's in an AP c lass. If you are having trouble understanding another student's work, remember that you did not copy it. And, your writing style is your own!