As a sophomore I am able to take the first ever course of AP Seminar at ELHS. It is open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors, and drives students to effectively communicate their ideas and opinions. In this captivating class, 10 students examine research, conduct analysis and evaluation of sources, and create arguments in a variety of formats. I have researched and written arguments on topics including whether writing by hand is more beneficial for your brain than typing, if watching TV increases intelligence, and how reading words with texture and sensory elements “lights up your brain.” I have additionally debated whether social media promotes or undermines body positivity and self-worth.
Although this writing-heavy course is challenging, the wealth of knowledge you gain from it makes the coursework worthwhile. I have found AP Seminar to be demanding as it involves research, critical thinking, teamwork, and presentation skills.
Students who complete the course can earn the AP Research and Seminar Certificate by enrolling in AP research afterward and scoring a 3 or higher on the AP exams. As an opinionated person, this class is a great way for me to express my opinions through writing. I especially love it because it allows students to write about almost any argument they have.
In addition to teaching English 10A, Ryan Ainscough is the teacher of this new class. He opened the course by teaching the fundamentals, such as how to analyze and dissect readings. Currently, he is shifting his focus to working on big research projects including individual research reports and group presentations.
“You go from learning skills to putting them to use,” Mr. Ainscough said. He believes that this class has definitely altered the way he approaches research, and he plans to apply that new perspective to his English classes in the research unit. Mr. Ainscough likes how this class offers him a chance to try something new. He thinks that it’s interesting to hear different perspectives of arguments and watch students tackle big, difficult projects that the course involves, while also rising to the occasion and working together to produce exceptional work.
For advanced writing students, AP Seminar is essentially an opportunity to gain some familiarity with the kinds of assignments and expectations that are typical in college courses.
