Language Arts·Advanced Placement

APEnglish Literature

AP English Literature: Analyze classic and modern works to prepare for the AP Exam in May.

1.0 CreditGrades 11–12100% OnlineSelf-Paced9 ModulesAdvanced Placement
AP

Built for the AP Exam

Every module sharpens the skills the College Board® tests. Sit the exam in May to earn potential college credit before you graduate.

About the course

Course Overview

AP English Literature and Composition invites students to immerse themselves in a rich exploration of literature, engaging with works from various genres, historical periods, and cultural perspectives. Through close reading and critical analysis, students delve into complex texts, examining literary elements such as character development, narrative structure, symbolism, and thematic depth. This course encourages students to interpret how an author’s choices in language and form create meaning, affect tone, and convey universal themes that resonate across time.

The curriculum spans a diverse array of poetry, prose, and drama, offering students the chance to interpret and connect with voices from Shakespearean sonnets to modern novels. In addition to reading, students are encouraged to craft well-supported, insightful essays and articulate their interpretations in class discussions, building confidence in literary analysis and effective argumentation. Throughout the course, students develop the skills necessary to analyze and appreciate literature at a college level, enhancing their ability to discuss complex ideas, synthesize information, and present persuasive arguments both in writing and verbally.

Designed to prepare students for the AP Exam in May, this course rigorously develops essential skills that support future academic success across a range of subjects. It cultivates a deep understanding of literary traditions and styles, fostering a lifelong appreciation of literature’s role in illuminating the human experience. Whether pursuing future studies in the humanities or seeking a broader understanding of literature’s impact, students will emerge with a strong foundation in critical thinking, textual analysis, and expressive writing.

This course has been authorized by the College Board® to use the AP designation.

By the end of the course

Learning Objectives

  • Read a text closely and draw conclusions from details
  • Identify the techniques used by an author and their effects
  • Develop an interpretation of a text
  • Present your interpretation and make an argument for it in writing

Course contents

What You'll Study

01Module

Short Fiction I: Delve into fundamental literary elements like character, setting, and structure.

02Module

Poetry I: Analyze poetic forms, techniques, and how meaning is conveyed through verse.

03Module

Longer Fiction or Drama I: Examine narrative structure and the layers within complex literary works.

04Module

Short Fiction II: Study character motivations, relationships, and growth within texts.

05Module

Poetry II: Identify central themes and explore how they’re developed across texts.

06Module

Longer Fiction or Drama II: Understand how authors use language to evoke emotion and enhance meaning.

07Module

Short Fiction III: Interpret how purpose and tone shape readers’ understanding of texts.

08Module

Poetry III: Integrate insights to form nuanced interpretations of literary works.

09Module

Longer Fiction or Drama III: Develop sophisticated, well-supported arguments on literary analysis.

Earn your 1.0 credit in English Literature

Accredited. Self-paced. Built for Texas students.

Start this semester

Earn credit. On your schedule.

Excel High School Texas is fully accredited, self-paced, and built for Texas students who want a college-ready diploma without compromise.