Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of students and parents.
Do we have to know grammar for AP English courses?
Yes! To discuss a language, you must comprehend how its sentences are put together to make meaning. We also need a common terminology to discuss writing and reading passages. Both exams test knowledge of basic English sentence structure. Some questions ask students to identify antecedents or to select the primary structural type in a passage. The primary structure might include fragmented sentences, complex sentences with dependent clauses, or beginning participial phrases. --The SAT WRITING SECTION emphasizes grammar and writing more than anything else. You need to know pronouns, antecedents, clauses, phrases, punctuation, parallel structure, etc. If you are weak in any of these areas, please study some of the links I have given you--both here and on the APE webpage. --The web site Number2.com gives students the opportunity to work through a variety of college-entry writing questions, many that pertain to grammar. Please use this site frequently.Back to Top
What is the format for the AP English exams?
Below is information on the FORMAT of the AP English exams: AP Language and Composition and AP Literature and Composition ***Multiple Choice Section: --Language test: prose passages --Literature test: prose and poetry --Passages on both tests may come from the 17th, 18th, 19th, or 20th centuries --Approximately 55 questions covering four-five passages. --Time Limit: 60 minutes --Weight: 45% of total test score ***Free Response (Essay): --English Language Exam ESSAYS: ( --One or two prompts requiring analysis of rhetoric in an argument, all in factual prose passages. (You need to know terms of persuasion, how to discuss satire, logical fallacies, etc.) --One or two prompts requiring construction of an argument based on specific directions, sometimes involving at least one passage or quotation. --You definitely will have a synthesis question (similar to a social studies DBQ) and will have to be able to understand research skills. Fifteen extra minutes will be added to the exam to allow time for reading the short passages before you have to start writing your response to the prompt question. --English Literature Exam ESSAYS: --One prompt requiring analysis of a prose passage --One prompt requiring analysis of a poem--or comparison of 2 --One open-ended question, usually related to a literary element-- a novel or play Time Limit: 120 minutes to write all three essays Weight: 55% of total scoreBack to Top
Do we have research papers due in AP?
Yes. The new Sunshine State Standards list requires research at almost every level, from middle school through high school. Colleges expect students to be able to document papers, cite their works, and avoid plagiarism. The AP Language exam has multiple choice questions that test knowledge of source citation.Back to Top
What is the policy on plagiarism?
See the Code of Conduct for disciplinary action. Anything I find that is plagiarized on a paper or presentation (without credit given) results in a zero grade. On research papers, this sort of carelessness could cost 800 points.Back to Top
What is the class policy on absences?
ABSENCES: For all pre-excused absences, make-up work should be scheduled in advance and completed as planned. (Most make-up work will be done BEFORE school since hectic schedules often make afternoons difficult to arrange.) As soon as a student knows about an upcoming absence, he/she needs to discuss details with me. If an absence is necessary for non-emergencies (minor illness, appointments, etc.), the student should complete all work as assigned and turn it in on the due date. In case of sudden severe illness or a family crisis, when the student returns to school, we can work together to schedule times for completing the make-up work. Usually, designated classmates will be available for questions about assignments. Try the student contacts first for minor questions. To verify an absence or if in great need, contact me directly at 644-2329 or e-mail me at cmshelnut@aol.com. *If a student is absent on a test day or when a major paper is due, the PARENT should contact me, especially if an essay cannot be delivered to class. (With ALL extended absences, it is helpful if the student and/or parent contacts me directly-I worry about people who aren't in school.) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> MORE ON ABSENCES @ (IF ABSENT ON A TEST DAY--without prior planning--YOUR TEST probably WILL BE ORAL).@ I like to return tests immediately. ****&&&& IF YOU ARE SICK and can't come to school on a day when something important is due, E-MAIL IT TO ME or send it with someone! &&&&Back to Top
What is the class policy on cell phones, ipods, dress?
The class policy adheres to the overall LHS policy--no cell phones out during the day, no ipods on in class, no torso or upper legs uncovered, no distracting messages on clothes, etc. BASIC COMMON SENSE REIGNS SUPREME!Back to Top