AP English Literature and Composition Topics

The AP English Literature and Composition course is designed to help students develop skills in literary analysis, critical thinking, and writing. However, because there are no set texts, and no set curriculum, it can be difficult to get a sense of what will be covered as part of your course, and how you’ll be assessed.

As an educator of over ten years with a specialty in English Literature, I have helped thousands of students understand their English courses. This article will provide a clear overview of the key topics that are likely to be covered in AP English Literature and Composition, the structure of the final exams, and how students can prepare effectively. I’ve always said to my students that by understanding the course content and exam format, you’ll be giving yourself the best chance of the very highest grades.

AP English Literature and Composition topics

Although teachers can create their own curricula, The College Board recommends a set structure for the AP English Literature and Composition course. This is to make sure all candidates cover the skills and topics that colleges will be expecting from AP English Literature students. The knowledge and skills described below are what colleges and universities typically expect students to demonstrate in order to receive credit for an introductory college literature course and placement into a higher-level literature course. So, even if your teacher doesn’t use the structure below (for example, they might organize units by theme, instead of by text-type) they will most likely cover all of the same types of text and skills.

The College Board’s recommended structure for the AP English Literature and Composition course is as follows. It is structured into nine units, each focusing on different types of literary texts and types of textual analysis:

1. Short Fiction I

2. Poetry I

3. Longer Fiction or Drama I

4. Short Fiction II

5. Poetry II

6. Longer Fiction or Drama II

7. Short Fiction III

8. Poetry III

9. Longer Fiction or Drama III

1. Short Fiction I

Students will analyze short fiction texts, focusing on elements such as character development, narrative perspective, and literary devices. 

2. Poetry I

This unit introduces students to the analysis of poetry, including figurative language, imagery, and structure. 

3. Longer Fiction or Drama I

Students will explore longer works of fiction or drama, examining themes, characterization, and authorial intent. 

4. Short Fiction II 

Building on previous knowledge, students will engage in deeper analysis of short fiction, considering textual complexity and subtext. 

5. Poetry II 

This unit encourages students to compare and contrast poetic styles, exploring how meaning is conveyed through structure and tone. 

6. Longer Fiction or Drama II 

A continuation of the analysis of extended literary works, focusing on plot development, motifs, and thematic significance. 

7. Short Fiction III 

Students will refine their ability to evaluate short fiction, applying literary theories and multiple perspectives to their analysis. 

8. Poetry III 

Advanced poetry analysis, with an emphasis on intertextuality, cultural context, and poetic techniques. 

9. Longer Fiction or Drama III 

Students will critically analyze a longer literary work or play, synthesizing knowledge from earlier units to form well-developed interpretations.

Here are more details on each of the nine units, including example texts that could be studied as part of each:

What is covered in the AP English Literature Section I: Multiple Choice exam?

Section I of the AP English Literature and Composition exam consists of multiple-choice questions based on prose and poetry passages. Students will be assessed on their ability to:

• Identify and analyze literary elements such as theme, structure, and language.

• Interpret character development and relationships within texts.

• Evaluate an author’s choices in style, tone, and narrative technique.

What is covered in the AP English Literature Section II: Free Response exam?

Section II consists of three essay questions where students must:

1. Analyze a given poem, discussing its structure, literary devices, and meaning.

2. Analyze a provided prose passage, focusing on characterization, style, and narrative technique.

3. Develop an argument about a literary work of their choice in response to a specific prompt.

Exam weightings and timings for AP English Literature and Composition

The AP English Literature and Composition exam is divided into two sections. Below is an overview of the exam format:

By understanding these topics and the exam structure, you can approach your AP English Literature and Composition studies with confidence. Having a good sense of what exactly could be covered in the exam means that those final exam texts — at least two of which you will likely never have read before — won’t be so daunting.

Improve your grades with Save My Exams

At Save My Exams, we’re here to help you achieve the best possible grade in AP English Literature and Composition. Right now, you can access our past papers with mark schemes, giving you the perfect way to practice and refine your exam technique.

And that’s just the beginning — our expert team is working on even more resources to support your revision, including:

• Clear and concise revision notes that break down complex topics into easy-to-understand explanations

• Exam-style questions with detailed mark schemes, so you know exactly what examiners are looking for

• Flashcards for quick-fire revision and easy recall of key facts and definitions

These new resources are coming soon, so stay tuned! In the meantime, get ahead with our AP English Literature and Composition past papers and start building your exam confidence today. 

AP English Literature and Composition Revision Resources

References

AP Central’s course overview for AP English Literature and Composition

AP English Literature and Composition course and exam description