Understanding the AP English Literature Exam Structure
The AP English Literature exam is typically divided into two main components: multiple choice questions and free-response essays. The multiple choice section is designed to gauge students' comprehension of literary texts and their ability to analyze and interpret them.
Components of the Exam
1. Multiple Choice Questions:
- This section usually consists of 55 questions.
- Students are provided with excerpts from various literary works, including poetry, prose, and drama.
- The questions require students to identify themes, analyze character development, and understand stylistic choices.
2. Free Response Essays:
- Students are required to write three essays in response to prompts that ask for analysis of literary works.
- Essays may require students to discuss specific themes, character motivations, or the significance of literary devices.
Scoring Breakdown
- Multiple Choice Section: This section accounts for 45% of the total score.
- Free Response Section: The essays account for the remaining 55%.
- A composite score is then converted to a 1-5 scale, with 5 being the highest possible score.
Key Themes and Concepts from the 1999 Exam
The 1999 AP English Literature exam featured a range of literary texts and themes. Understanding these key elements can help students better prepare for future exams.
Literary Texts Included
The multiple choice section often includes excerpts from well-known authors and poets. For the 1999 exam, students might have encountered texts from:
- Shakespeare: Known for his complex characters and intricate plots.
- Emily Dickinson: Renowned for her unique use of meter and slant rhyme.
- Toni Morrison: Focused on themes of identity, community, and race.
Themes Explored in the Exam
Common themes explored in the 1999 exam included:
- Identity and Self-Discovery: Many texts examined the struggle for personal identity and the impact of societal expectations.
- Love and Relationships: Questions often addressed the complexities of human relationships, including romantic love, familial ties, and friendships.
- Conflict and Resolution: Students were required to analyze how characters faced conflicts and the resolutions that followed.
Types of Multiple Choice Questions
Multiple choice questions on the AP English Literature exam can vary significantly in terms of format and focus. Understanding these types can help students strategize their approach.
Common Question Formats
1. Interpretive Questions: These ask students to interpret the meaning of a specific passage or line.
- Example: What does the speaker's tone reveal about their emotional state?
2. Analytical Questions: These require students to analyze literary devices and their effects.
- Example: How does the author use imagery to enhance the theme?
3. Contextual Questions: These questions place a passage within the broader context of the author’s work or literary movement.
- Example: How does this excerpt reflect the characteristics of Romantic literature?
Strategies for Answering Multiple Choice Questions
To perform well on the multiple choice section, students may consider the following strategies:
- Read Carefully: Take time to carefully read the passages and questions to fully understand what is being asked.
- Look for Keywords: Pay attention to keywords in both the questions and answer choices that can guide the interpretation.
- Eliminate Incorrect Answers: Use the process of elimination to narrow down choices, increasing the odds of selecting the correct answer.
- Practice with Previous Exams: Familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions by practicing with past exams.
Preparation for the AP English Literature Exam
Preparing for the AP English Literature exam requires a solid study plan and familiarity with a range of literary texts. Here are some tips to enhance preparation.
Reading Widely
Students should read a diverse array of literature, including:
- Classic Novels: Works by authors like Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, and F. Scott Fitzgerald.
- Poetry: Collections from poets such as Robert Frost, Langston Hughes, and Sylvia Plath.
- Contemporary Literature: Novels and essays from modern authors to understand current literary trends.
Practice Tests and Question Banks
Utilizing practice tests can help students become comfortable with the exam format. Many resources are available, including:
- Official AP Practice Tests: Released by the College Board.
- Study Guides: Books and online resources that provide practice questions and explanations.
- Study Groups: Collaborating with peers can enhance understanding and retention of material.
Analyzing Free Response Prompts
In addition to multiple choice practice, students should also analyze past free response prompts. This helps in understanding what examiners are looking for:
- Identify Key Themes: Recognize recurring themes in past prompts to focus study efforts.
- Develop Thesis Statements: Practice crafting strong thesis statements that directly address the prompt.
- Review Scoring Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with scoring rubrics to understand how essays are evaluated.
Conclusion
1999 AP English Literature Exam Multiple Choice Answers are not just answers; they represent a culmination of literary knowledge, critical thinking, and analytical skills developed over time. By understanding the structure of the exam, the types of questions asked, and effective preparation strategies, students can enhance their chances of success. Reading widely, practicing with past materials, and honing analytical skills will not only prepare students for the AP exam but also foster a lifelong appreciation for literature. With dedication and a strategic approach, students can excel in AP English Literature and embark on their journey into higher education with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key themes explored in the 1999 AP English Literature exam multiple choice questions?
Common themes include identity, conflict, societal norms, and the human experience.
Which literary works were frequently referenced in the 1999 AP English Literature exam?
Notable works include 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald and 'Beloved' by Toni Morrison.
How can students prepare for the multiple choice section of the AP English Literature exam based on 1999 trends?
Students should practice with past exam questions, read a variety of literary texts, and focus on analyzing themes and character development.
What types of literary devices were commonly tested in the 1999 AP English Literature exam?
Commonly tested devices include symbolism, imagery, tone, and irony.
Were any specific authors emphasized in the 1999 AP English Literature exam multiple choice questions?
Yes, authors like Shakespeare, Emily Dickinson, and Mark Twain were often highlighted.
What skills are essential for success on the multiple choice section of the AP English Literature exam?
Critical reading, analytical thinking, and the ability to interpret figurative language are essential skills.
How does the format of the 1999 AP English Literature exam multiple choice questions compare to current exams?
The format is largely similar, focusing on multiple choice questions that assess comprehension, analysis, and interpretation.
What was the average difficulty level of the 1999 AP English Literature exam multiple choice questions?
The questions were generally considered to be of moderate difficulty, challenging students to think critically about the texts.
How important is familiarity with poetry for the 1999 AP English Literature exam?
Familiarity with poetry is very important, as the exam often includes questions on poetic forms and analysis.
What strategies can be used to tackle difficult multiple choice questions on the AP English Literature exam?
Students can use process of elimination, look for context clues, and refer back to the text when necessary.
