Blogging in AP Language

What is a blog?

A blog (a contraction of the term “weblog”) is a type of website, usually maintained by an individual with regular entries of commentary, Forty More Blogs? descriptions of events, or other material such as graphics or video. Entries are commonly displayed in reverse-chronological order. “Blog” can also be used as a verb, meaning to maintain or add content to a blog.

Many blogs provide commentary or news on a particular subject; others function as more personal online diaries. A typical blog combines text, images, and links to other blogs, Web pages, and other media related to its topic. The ability for readers to leave comments in an interactive format is an important part of many blogs. Most blogs are primarily textual, although some focus on art (artlog), photographs (photoblog), sketches (sketchblog), videos (vlog), music (MP3 blog), and audio (podcasting). Micro-blogging is another type of blogging, featuring very short posts.

Why are we blogging in AP?

Blogging really comes down to the three fundamental skills that we will study in AP Language this year: analysis of argumentation, synthesis of multiple sources to advance a claim, and persuasion. Blogging will provide an opportunity to practice these skills in weeks when we are not working on full-scale essays. Additionally, the opportunity to comment and respond to each other’s ideas should sharpen your academic skills.

What do I need to do?

Each blogging week, you should write two thoughtful entries in which you analyze, synthesize, and/or persuade. Think of the blogs as miniature versions of essays. Each entry should be at least two thoughtful paragraphs and demonstrate an understanding of the principles of rhetoric and argumentation we’ve discussed in class.

Each blogging week should lead to two entries and at least two thoughtful comments on the posts made by other students. You may also write one thorough entry each week, but please make sure that the entry is the equivalent of two separate posts in terms of effort and insight.

While blogging is less formal than academic writing, your posts should reflect good grammar, accurate spelling, and thoughtful writing. There’s no point in practicing how to do something incorrectly; make sure that your blogs are good practice for writing.

Are there any conventions I should be aware of?

A few. When one blogs, it’s common to include a link to the article one is referring to and to include short excerpts from the article when necessary. It’s also common practice to link any data/evidentiary claims that are available.

Where can I find material to blog about?

Anywhere. As long as your writing and arguments are serious and reflect strong anayltical thinking skills, you can write about anything from opera to open heart surgery. This page has both a large collection of sources and some interesting articles you can use to get started.