I am going to teach an AP Language class for the first time next year. I have taught American Literature and Composition for several years. I am a little intimidated by the AP class. I want to do a great job. I know I will get better at it as the years go by and will develop my curriculum; however, I would like for current AP Language teachers to give me an idea of what I should concentrate on next year. What are some assignments that would be good to get me started? Any help or suggestions would be appreciated. Thank You.
Have you taken or plan on taking the training for the course? While it's not necessary, it is a huge help! They give you texts and tons of materials, including released tests, as well as multiple ideas of what to teach. You will also get sample syllabi that you can use as is, or modify to suit your needs. Make sure you register on College Board and get your syllabus approved. If someone else was teaching it before you, you can use their, as a start, so that you have something on file. College Board also has tons of resources that can help. Syllabi can be difficult, but College Board will give you feedback if you submit yours and its not what they want. I teach my course thematically, so we read a variety of essays that fit into a certain theme. Is there a specific textbook you're using? Some have themes already laid out. Make sure you know the format of the test, and incorporate essay writing and multiple choice test practice throughout the course. Not sure what your curriculum is for your Lit and Comp class, but AP is a totally different ball game. Make sure you're familiar with the AP rubrics as well before you start grading. In my course, they have about an essay a week. Sometimes it's every two weeks, but they are writing constantly. I start my year Fallacies, Modes of Rhetoric, Rhetorical Devices, P.A.S.T.A. and Allegory of the Cave. There is too much to put here--PM if you would like more specifics.
Yes, I am enrolled in the AP Institute workshop in my state for this summer. I have registered with College Board, and I guess it is not too early to get my syllabus approved. Thank you for your input.
