How to Build a Successful AP Language and Composition Course: 5 Foundations Every AP Lang Teacher Needs
Whether you're teaching AP Language and Composition for the first time or looking to refresh your curriculum, one question always comes up: What separates an average AP Lang classroom from one where students consistently grow as readers, writers, and thinkers—and ultimately succeed on the AP exam? While strong exam preparation certainly matters, the most successful AP Language classrooms are built on much more than practice tests and timed essays. They foster curiosity, independence, collaboration, and authentic engagement with nonfiction. Here are the five essential foundations of a successful AP Language and Composition curriculum that prepare students for both the AP exam and college-level reading and writing.
5 Best Dystopian Short Stories to Engage Middle and High School ELA Students at the Start of the Year
Dystopian fiction has a way of pulling students in from the very first page—blending suspense, societal criticism, and imaginative “what if" scenarios that spark both critical and creative thinking. Short stories are especially powerful at the start of the year since they allow students to engage quickly with big themes while practicing core ELA skills. Here are five of the best dystopian short stories to kick off your secondary ELA classroom.
How to Keep ELA Students Engaged During Testing Season (Without Losing Your Mind!)
Let’s be real—testing season can feel like a grind. Between drills, practice tests, and pacing guides, it’s easy for engagement to take a backseat. But it doesn’t have to! You can keep your students motivated, creative, and learning—all while prepping them for their end-of-year assessments.
Here are 3 fun and meaningful ways to keep students engaged during testing season:
Time-Saving Multiple-Choice Reading Strategies to Help Students Succeed on the SAT, ACT, AP Lang, and AP Lit Tests
Time-Saving Multiple-Choice Reading Strategies to Help Students Succeed on the SAT, ACT, AP Lang, and AP Lit Tests
Multiple-choice sections on standardized tests like the AP Language and Composition, AP Literature and Composition, SAT, and ACT can be overwhelming for students, but with the right approach, they can maximize their accuracy and efficiency. Here are some key reading strategies to help students work smarter—not harder—on test day!
5 Essential Tips for Preparing Students for the AP Language and Composition Digital Exam
The AP Language and Composition exam has transitioned to a fully digital format, bringing new challenges for both students and teachers. As educators, it’s important to adjust our instruction to ensure students are confident and prepared for test day. Here are five essential tips to help students navigate the digital exam successfully.