Apvocab0229 0304

AP Language and Composition
Vocabulary List
02/29 03/04
Predicate adjective One type of subject complement is an adjective, group of adjectives, or adjective clause that
follows a linking verb. It is an the predicate of the sentence, and modifies, or describes, the subject.
Predicate nominative - A second type of subject complement - a noun, group of nouns, or noun clause that names
the subject. It, like the predicate adjective, follows a linking verb and is located in the predicate of the
sentence.
Rhetorical modes - This flexible term describes the variety, the conventions, and purposes of the major kinds of
writing. The four most common rhetorical modes and their purposes are as follows: (1) The purpose of
exposition (or expository writing) is to explain and analyze information by presenting an idea, relevant
evidence, and appropriate discussion. The AP language exam essay questions are frequently expository
topics. (2) The purpose of argumentation is to prove the validity of an idea, or point of view, by presenting
sound reasoning, discussion, and argument that thoroughly convince the reader. Persuasive writing is a
type of argumentation having an additional aim of urging some form of action. (3) The purpose of
description is to re-create, invent, or visually present a person, place, event or action so that the reader can
picture that being described. Sometimes an author engages all five senses in description; good descriptive
writing can be sensuous and picturesque. Descriptive writing may be straightforward and objective or highly
emotional and subjective. (4) The purpose of narration is to tell a story or narrate an event or series of
events. This writing mode frequently uses the tools of descriptive writing. These four modes are sometimes
referred to as mode of discourse.
Rhetorical Question differs from hypophora in that it is not answered by the writer because its answer
is obvious or obviously desired, and usually just a yes or no answer would suffice. It is used for effect,
emphasis, or provocation, or for drawing a conclusionary statement from the fact at hand.
Syntax The way an author chooses to join words into phrases, clauses, and sentences. Syntax is similar to diction,
but you can differentiate them by thinking of syntax as the groups of words, while diction refers to the
individual words. In the multiple-choice section, expect to be asked some questions about how an author
manipulates syntax. In the essay section, you will need to analyze how syntax produces effects.
Theme - The central idea or message of a work, the insight it offers into life. Usually theme is unstated in fictional
works, but in nonfiction, the theme may be directly stated, especially in exposityr or argumentative writing.
Thesis In expository writing, the thesis statement is the sentence or a group of sentences that directly expresses
the authors opinion, purpose, meaning, or position. Expository writing is usually judged by analyzing how
accurately, effectively, and thoroughly a writer has proved the thesis.
Tone Similar to mood, tone describes the authors attitude toward his material, the audience, or both. Tone is
easier to determine in spoken language than in written language. Considering how a work would sound if ti
were read aloud can help in identifying an authors tone. Some words describing tone are playful, serious,
businesslike, sarcastic, humorous, formal, ornate, sardonic, and somber.
Transition A word or phrase that links different ideas. Used especially, although not exclusively, in expository and
argumentative writing, transitions effectively signal a shift from one idea to another. A few commonly used
transitional words or phrases are furthermore, consequently, nevertheless, for example, in addition, likewise,
similarly and on the contrary. More sophisticated writers use more subtle means of transition. We will
discuss these methods later.
Understatement The ironic minimizing of fact, understatement presents something as less significant than it is.
The effect can frequently be humorous and emphatic. Understatement is the opposite of hyperbole.
Ex. The 1906 San Francisco earthquake interrupted business somewhat in the downtown area.
Last week I saw a woman flayed, and you will hardly believe how much it altered her person for the worse.
Jonathan Swift

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AP Language and Composition

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