How to choose between AP Language and AP Literature?

Updated on: 24th July, 2024

Choosing between AP Language and AP Literature can be a tough decision for many students. Both courses offer valuable skills and college credit opportunities, but they cater to different interests and strengths. This guide will help students understand each course in detail, the number of questions they cover, their differences, and how students can make an informed choice for AP Exams. 

AP English Literature and Composition

AP Literature is ideal for students who love studying novels, poetry, and drama. It focuses on analyzing and interpreting literary works.

Course Content:

• Literary texts: novels, plays, poems, and short stories.
• Writing: analytical essays about the literature studied.
• Emphasis on critical thinking and interpretation of themes, character development, and literary devices.

Exam Structure:

Section-1: Multiple-Choice 

• 55 questions in 1 Hour
• 45% of the exam score
• 5 sets of questions with 8-13 questions in each set. 
• Each set starts with a passage of prose fiction, drama, or poetry of varying difficulty levels. The multiple-choice section always includes at least two prose fiction passages (which may include drama) and at least two poetry passages.

Section-2: Free-Response Section

• 55% of the exam score

• Students write essays responding to 3 free-response prompts in 2 hours in these categories:

  1. A literary analysis of a given poem
  2. A literary analysis of a given passage of prose fiction (which may include drama)
  3. An analysis examining a specific concept, issue, or element in a work chosen by the student. For the third question, students should select a high-quality work of fiction similar to those studied in their AP classes.

AP English Language and Composition

AP Language focuses on enhancing student's writing and rhetorical analysis skills. It’s geared towards those who enjoy reading nonfiction and writing essays.

Course Content:

• Nonfiction texts: speeches, essays, letters, and journalism.
• Writing: argumentative, synthesis, and rhetorical analysis essays.
• Emphasis on developing a clear and persuasive writing style.

Exam Structure

Section-1: Multiple-Choice Section

• 45 question in 1 hour
• 45% of the exam score
• Includes 5 sets of questions
• 23–25 Reading questions on analyzing nonfiction texts.
  20–22 Writing questions on “reading like a writer” and considering revisions to stimulus texts.

Section II: Free Response

• 3 questions in 2 hours 15 minutes (including a 15-minute reading period)
• 55% of the exam score
• Students write essays responding to 3 free-response prompts:

1. Synthesis Question: Read 6 texts about a topic (including visual and quantitative sources) and compose an argument using and citing at least 3 of the sources to support their thesis.
2. Rhetorical Analysis: Read a nonfiction text and analyze how the writer’s language choices contribute to the text's meaning and purpose.
3. Argument: Create an evidence-based argument responding to a given topic

Key Differences

Here’s a comparison for students to help them decide which course might be a better fit for them:

Making Your Choice

To decide between AP Language and AP Literature, consider the following:

1. Interest in Reading Materials: Do you prefer analyzing arguments and rhetoric in nonfiction, or do you enjoy diving into the world of literature and exploring themes and characters?
2. Writing Style: Are you more comfortable writing persuasive and argumentative essays, or do you excel in analytical writing about literature?
3. College and Career Goals: Think about your future plans. AP Language is beneficial for careers in journalism, law, and communications, while AP Literature is great for careers in education, writing, and literary analysis.
4. Current Strengths: Reflect on your current strengths in English. If you excel in analyzing literary texts, AP Literature might be a better fit. If you have a knack for persuasive writing and rhetorical analysis, AP Language could be the way to go.

Choosing the right AP course is a significant decision that can impact a student's academic journey. By understanding the differences between AP Language and AP Literature and considering their interests and strengths, they can make an informed choice that aligns with their goals. Happy studying!

Read more about AP and the recommended book list for AP students.

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