AP Vocabulary Directions
Extensive and intensive vocabulary study is a vital part of the broader goal of achieving language proficiency. To assist students in striving for this goal, AP Language and Composition students will have frequent lists of vocabulary words, usually containing twenty (20) words each. Many of these words are taken from passages that have appeared on previous AP examinations or from reading assignments. Many of these words will be new ones, but others may be words with which students are already familiar. Students also study a list of one-hundred (100) words all high school students should know. This list is from the American Heritage Dictionary website.
In addition to word lists, AP students should also strive to learn new words incidentally from reading, writing, viewing, and from class discussion. In AP Language and Composition, debate and discussion are often lively and intense, and words from a variety of sources frequently come up daily in these class discussions. Conscientious AP students should keep a "running log" of new words.
Vocabulary study is cumulative. Once a student learns a word, it should become a part of a student's "working vocabulary"or lexicon. Words should not be learned just for a test and then forgotten. Students should try to use vocabulary words in their writing, in their speaking, and in classroom discussion. The teacher will also use newly-learned words to reinforce this goal.
A broad knowledge of words is one characteristic of a well-educated, intelligent, scholarly person. Students who score high marks on the National AP Examination in Language and Composition are usually those who demonstrate a command of mature, sophisticated, scholarly vocabulary as well as an overall ability to write with insight and on an advanced level.
Specific Directionsfor Assigned Vocabulary Lists
Typing is preferable; handwriting in blue or black ink is acceptable.
1. Write the word
2. Write the part of speech
3. Divide the word into syllables (use natural spelling, NOT phonetic spelling)
4. Explain the syllabication of the word [see the term "syllabication" by linking to Rhetorical Terms from here or the homepage].
5. Put accent marks on the word to show pronunciation and stressed syllables. Include primary and, if any exist, secondary accents.
NOTE: You do not need to rewrite the word. Put accents on the word you have already divided into syllables.
6. Give definitions; read ALL definitions for a word; give several; try to understand all the nuances of the meaning(s); DO NOT
just give one short, simple definition.
7. List three (3) synonyms for the word. NOTE: Some words do not have synonyms, but most do. Try diligently to find three good
synonyms for each word.
8. Write a good sentence using the word.Underline the word in the sentence. NOTE: DO NOT write short, "baby" sentences.
A good sentence is a mature sentence that demonstrates the meaning of the word. See examples below demonstrating
the word "occult." ALSO NOTE: Be sure that in your sentence you use the word as the correct part of speech.
Poor, unacceptable sentences: My brother loves the occult. [noun usage]
Criminal labs use occult clues to catch crooks. [adjective usage]
Good, acceptable sentences: My brother, who has always loved magic and witchcraft, has been fascinated with the occult
throughout his life. [noun usage]
Using computer technology to uncover concealed information, criminal labs often detect
occult clues that enable them to convict felons. [adjective usage]
9. STUDY AND LEARN THE WORD, AND, MOST IMPORTANTLY, BEGIN USING THE WORD AS APPROPRIATE IN YOUR SPEAKING AND WRITING.MAKE IT YOURS!
Vocabulary Tests and Exams
Students will have frequent vocabulary tests, usually one after each list. Mr. Hopkins will announce the dates for these tests and will post them on the assignment page of the website.
In the course of the year, AP Language and Composition students should expect to study between 300 and 500 vocabulary words, plus many other poetic, literary, and rhetorical terms. Students will have a cumulative vocabulary and terms exam at the end of the first semester.
In May, students will have another cumulative vocabulary and terms exam covering all the words and terms for the entire year.Mrs. Knighten-Miller will announce specific dates for these exams and will post these dates on the assignment page of the website.
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