In AP English Language and Composition, mastering proper attribution and citation is crucial for producing effective rhetorical sentences and cumulative sentences that enhance both argumentative speech and argumentative writing. Properly citing sources not only lends credibility to your work but also allows for the incorporation of diverse perspectives, enriching your analyses and arguments. By understanding and applying correct citation practices, students can develop well-supported, persuasive essays that demonstrate respect for intellectual property and strengthen their overall communication skills.

Learning Objectives

The learning objectives for mastering proper attribution and citation in AP English Language and Composition include using cumulative sentences to add depth and clarity, crafting explanatory essays and expository essays that accurately incorporate sources, employing rhetorical sentences to enhance persuasiveness, developing a strong final thesis statement supported by properly cited evidence, and applying critical thinking to evaluate and integrate sources effectively into your writing.

Understanding Attribution and Citation

Attribution: Giving proper credit to the original source of information, ideas, or quotations used in your work.
- Purpose: To acknowledge the contributions of others, avoid plagiarism, and add credibility to your writing.
- Example: Mentioning the author’s name and work when discussing their ideas or quoting them.
Citation: Providing detailed information about the sources you reference in your work, usually in a specific format (e.g., MLA, APA).
- Purpose: To allow readers to locate the original sources and verify your information.
- Example: Including a works cited page or bibliography at the end of your essay.

Types of Citations

In-Text Citations: Brief references within your text that direct readers to the full citation in your works cited page.
- MLA Format: Typically includes the author’s last name and page number.
  - Example: (Smith 23).
- APA Format: Includes the author’s last name and year of publication.
  - Example: (Smith, 2020).
Works Cited/Bibliography: A comprehensive list of all the sources referenced in your essay, formatted according to a specific style guide.
- MLA Format: “Works Cited” page listing full details of each source.
- APA Format: “References” page listing full details of each source.

Common Citation Styles

Modern Language Association (MLA): Commonly used in humanities, especially for literary analysis.
- In-Text Citation: (Author’s Last Name Page Number).
- Works Cited Format:
  - Books: Author’s Last Name, First Name. Title of Book. Publisher, Year.
  - Articles: Author’s Last Name, First Name. “Title of Article.” Title of Journal, vol. number, no. number, Year, pages.
American Psychological Association (APA): Commonly used in social sciences.
- In-Text Citation: (Author’s Last Name, Year).
- References Format:
  - Books: Author’s Last Name, First Initial. (Year). Title of Book. Publisher.
  - Articles: Author’s Last Name, First Initial. (Year). Title of article. Title of Journal, Volume(Issue), pages.

Integrating Quotations and Paraphrases

Quotations: Directly using the exact words from a source.
- Integration: Introduce the quote, use quotation marks, and provide an in-text citation.
- Example: As Smith argues, “quote” (23).
Paraphrases: Restating information from a source in your own words.
- Integration: Provide an in-text citation even when paraphrasing.
- Example: Smith suggests that restated information (23).

Developing a Strong Final Thesis Statement

Purpose: Your thesis should guide your essay and provide a clear argument.
Integration: Incorporate references to literary works and criticism to support your thesis.
Example: In analyzing Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, it becomes evident that social class plays a crucial role in character development and plot progression (Smith 45).

Using Critical Thinking in Literary Analysis

Analyzing Sources: Critically evaluate the reliability and relevance of your sources.
Contextualizing Quotes: Understand and explain the context of quotations and how they support your argument.
Balancing Evidence: Use a mix of quotations and paraphrases to build a well-supported argument.

Avoiding Common Citation Mistakes

Plagiarism: Always give credit for ideas, data, and direct quotations from other sources.
Incorrect Formatting: Follow the specific guidelines of the citation style you are using.
Incomplete Citations: Ensure that all in-text citations correspond to an entry in your works cited or references page.

AP English Literature

Learning proper attribution and citation in literary analysis