The course covers rhetorical analysis, argument and evidence, reasoning and organization, and effective writing techniques. Students learn to identify rhetorical devices, evaluate claims and counterclaims, analyze author's purpose and audience, and craft persuasive essays. You'll also study how diction, syntax, tone, and structure contribute to an author's message—skills that apply to both reading comprehension and your own writing.

Many 10th graders struggle with time management during the AP exam—the three essays must be completed in 3 hours, which requires practice and strategic planning. Others find rhetorical analysis challenging because it requires moving beyond summarizing to deeply examining how and why an author makes specific word and structure choices. Additionally, maintaining a consistent, persuasive voice while incorporating evidence can be difficult for younger writers still developing their analytical skills.

The AP exam has two main sections: a 1-hour multiple-choice section (52 questions on reading passages) and a 2-hour free-response section (three timed essays). The essays include a rhetorical analysis essay, an argument essay, and a synthesis essay. Each section requires different skills—the multiple-choice tests reading comprehension and rhetorical understanding, while the essays demand planning, evidence integration, and clear reasoning under time pressure.

Score improvement depends on your starting point and effort level, but personalized 1-on-1 instruction typically helps students strengthen weak areas significantly. For example, if you struggle with rhetorical analysis, targeted practice with expert feedback can help you develop that skill over several weeks. Most students who work consistently with a tutor see meaningful gains in both multiple-choice accuracy and essay scores, particularly when they focus on understanding question formats and practicing timed writing.

Start by identifying your weakest area—whether that's reading comprehension, rhetorical analysis, argument construction, or time management. Then work with a tutor to practice that skill repeatedly with real AP prompts and passages. You should also take full-length practice tests under timed conditions, review your essays with detailed feedback, and learn strategies for planning essays quickly. Building confidence with the exam format is just as important as mastering content.

Look for tutors with strong experience teaching AP English Language specifically, ideally with a background in rhetoric, composition, or English literature. They should be familiar with the current AP exam format and scoring rubrics, and able to provide detailed feedback on your essays. It's also helpful if they've worked with 10th graders before and understand how to balance challenge with age-appropriate support.

Your first session typically involves an assessment to identify your current strengths and areas for improvement. You might take a practice multiple-choice section or write a timed essay so the tutor can understand your reading comprehension level, analytical thinking, and writing skills. From there, you'll develop a personalized plan focused on your specific goals—whether that's improving essay scores, building faster analysis skills, or managing exam anxiety—and establish a study schedule leading up to test day.