AP Language Synthesis Essay Samples

I'm finding the AP Language synthesis essay a bit challenging. Can anyone share examples of high-scoring AP Language synthesis essays, or resources where I can find them?

Unfortunately, I can't provide actual examples in this forum due to copyright restrictions; however, what I'd suggest is taking a look at the College Board's AP Central website. College Board is the organization that creates and administers AP exams, and they often share sample responses from actual AP exams. Navigate to the AP Language and Composition section to find sample student responses, detailed scoring explanations, and comments from the exam creators which provide feedback on high-score responses. Specifically, you'd like to look for sample "Synthesis Essay" responses with high scores.

When reviewing these essays, be sure to not simply memorize the responses or the topic as AP exam questions change every year. Instead, focus on how the author structures their essay, integrates their sources, and forms their arguments. Note the balance of original ideas and source information, the logical flow of arguments, and how the student attributes elements from the sources.

Furthermore, closely read the scoring commentary that comes along with the samples. The commentary explains the reasons behind the scores, highlighting how the student’s essay meets the criteria in the rubric. This can be an enlightening guide that can help you understand what graders are looking for in high-scoring essays.

Practice is key to mastering the AP Language synthesis essay, so try to write a few practice essays using previous AP Exam prompts, then review the scoring commentary to see how your essay could be improved. This will be beneficial in giving you a feel of what exam graders are looking for, therefore enabling you to approach the synthesis essay section with preparedness and confidence. Good luck!