AP LANG FREE RESPONSE

(Don’t be fooled by the word “Free”-answer the prompt)

Homework: Due Tuesday, Oct 13.

Type a three paragraph essay that answers/ responds to one of the following prompts:

(Suggested time—40 minutes. This question counts for one-third of the total essay section score on the AP Lang test.)

1 1. The first Buy Nothing Day—a day on which people are urged to purchase no goods—was organized in Canada in 1992 as a way to increase awareness of excessive consumerism. A Buy Nothing Day has been held yearly since then in many nations. An online article, “Buy Nothing Day: 2006 Press Release,” urged worldwide acceptance of taking a “24-hour consumer detox as part of the 14th annual Buy Nothing Day” in order to “expose the environmental and ethical consequences of over consumption” (“Buy Nothing Day,” courtesy Adbusters, www.adbusters.org).

     Consider the implications of a day on which no goods are purchased. Then write an essay in which you develop a position on the establishment of an annual Buy Nothing Day. Support your argument

      with appropriate evidence.

2.  In his 2004 book, Status Anxiety, Alain de Botton argues that the chief aim of humorists   is not merely to entertain but “to convey with impunity messages that might be dangerous or impossible to state directly.” Because society allows humorists to say things that other people cannot or will not say, de Botton sees humorists as serving a vital function in society.

Think about the implications of de Botton’s view of the role of humorists (cartoonists,      stand-up comics, satirical writers, hosts of television programs, etc.). Then write an essay that defends, challenges, or qualifies de Botton’s claim about the vital role of  humorists. Use specific, appropriate evidence to develop your position.

ALSO,

Bring a copy of Beowulf.

ALSO, 

Remember that Wed. Oct 14 is PSAT day. No classes. 

ALSO,

Have a good weekend!