AP English Literature 2017 Exam: A Surprising 4

Remote working mode, much like Neha Chandani, has left me in quite a similar position regarding the AP English Literature exam results for the year 2017. Surprisingly, I too earned a 4 on the exam. I approached the AP Literature exam as the most challenging of the six AP exams I took that year. While the multiple choice section wasn't entirely intimidating, I could not help but feel increasingly uncertain as I tackled the essays.

When Trevor Packer, the executive director of Advanced Placement, sent out tweets regarding student performance, they did little to boost my confidence. However, to my pleasant surprise, I found out that I had actually passed the exam with a decent score—a 4. This outcome was far from what I expected as I believed I would only get a 2.

In many ways, my performance on this exam mirrors the struggles and uncertainties many students faced. The multiple choice portion of the exam was divided; some passages were easy, while others were quite challenging. The essays, on the other hand, were described variously as free-form, unstructured, and unpredictable. While I felt that some of my writing had potential, I also recognized that many of my responses were poor. This duality of thoughts made the outcome all the more surprising and gratifying.

AP English Literature Scores: A Decade-Long Low

According to data provided by Trevor Packer, the scores in the year 2017 were notably low and marked a significant drop. Packer noted that AP English Literature scores were the lowest in a ten-year period. This statistic amplifies the uncertainty and fear that many students and educators might have felt during the exam.

The score distribution for the 2017 AP English Literature exam revealed a concerning trend. More than 50 students received scores of 1 or 2, indicating a severe struggle with the material. This indicates that, despite the challenges posed by the exam, several students were still able to navigate it successfully.

Lessons from the 2017 Exam Experience

For students preparing for the AP English Literature exam, the 2017 results serve as a sobering reminder of the intricate nature of the test. The multiple choice section, while challenging, offered insights into the specific skills needed to succeed. Students must not only read widely but also develop a critical and analytical mindset to interpret and evaluate literary texts effectively.

The essays, in particular, highlighted the need for strong writing skills and a deep understanding of literary devices and themes. Students who approached the exam with a solid foundation in both literary analysis and essay writing were more likely to perform better. Additionally, the free-form nature of the essays suggests that flexibility and creativity in responding to various prompts are key to achieving high scores.

It is also important to recognize that the exam is not a one-shot deal. Students who recognize their mistakes and seek additional help, whether through tutoring, peer study groups, or personal reading, can greatly improve their chances of success in future exams. The 2017 results underscore the importance of comprehensive preparation and resilience in the face of academic challenges.

Conclusion

In conclusion, earning a 4 on the AP English Literature 2017 exam, despite facing significant challenges, reminds us that perseverance and preparation can lead to positive outcomes. The low overall scores this year benchmark a need for a review of the exam format and resources. Nonetheless, the experiences shared by students like Neha Chandani and my own serve as valuable insights and motivators for future students taking the AP English Literature exam.

Keywords: AP English Literature, AP Exam Scores, College Board