Diction
word choice that sounds smooth, pleasant, and musical when spoken out loud.
Euphonious
When an author places two contrasting ideas, images, or characters side by side to highlight their differences and make one or both stand out more.
juxtaposition
“I’m fixin’ to head down yonder ‘fore it gets dark.” This use of diction shows examples of...
dialect
“The cold marble floor sent a shiver through her bare feet.” The use of this technique emphasizes vulnerability and discomfort, reflecting the character’s emotional isolation.
imagery/detail
how many tones should we always look for to discuss complexity?
Two
a form of language used in a particular region, culture, or social group, with its own distinct vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.
dialect
a question asked for effect, not for an actual answer.
The writer or speaker already knows the answer — they ask it to make readers think, feel, or agree.
A rhetorical question
In order to create a more encouraging tone, instead of telling a student they "failed" the test, the teacher said "you just didn’t meet expectations" This is an example of a...
euphemism
In George Orwell's novel, 1984 it states “Freedom is slavery. Ignorance is strength.” What device is he using to create this?
paradox
The maximum about of points awarded for evidence and commentary
4
a mild, indirect, or “softer” word or phrase used in place of something that might be harsh, blunt, or unpleasant.
Euphemism
a long sentence that withholds its main idea (the until the end. It builds up to the main point instead of stating it right away.
periodic sentence
“The teacher spoke with authority, the students listened with awe.” This an example of...
a balanced sentence
Which would get the thesis point and WHY?
In the short story “Eleven,” Sandra Cisneros uses many literary devices to convey her message about childhood.
In “Eleven,” Cisneros employs repetition and first-person narration to convey Rachel’s internal conflict between her age and emotions, emphasizing the painful honesty of growing up.
The second statement:
first one“Many literary devices” is too general — there’s no specific argument or direction.
clear use of techniques, develops an argument, complexity
To earn this point on the AP rubric, you must respond to the prompt and present an interpretation rather than summarize the passage.
thesis
words that sound harsh rough when spoken out loud.
Cacophonous
s a statement or situation that seems to contradict itself, but when you think about it more deeply, it actually reveals a hidden truth.
paradox
This technique appears when Douglass contrasts the “wretchedness of slavery” with the “blessedness of freedom.” showing the moral and emotional divide between bondage and liberation. Implicit contrast
juxtaposition
In this unusual point of view, the narrator is both a participant and all-knowing observer, allowing deep empathy and philosophical reflection.
1st person omniscient
A student earns this point by demonstrating complexity — recognizing nuance, tension, or a broader significance of the text.
sophistication
words that name specific, tangible things you can see, hear, touch, taste, or smell.
concrete diction
This is used to make sure the most important idea stands out.
emphatic position
“The clashing clang of the garbage cans echoed down the alley.” This type of diction mimics noise and chaos.
Cacophonous
This quote “Why do we destroy the things we love?” Reveals insight on human nature; reflective and tragic tone. What two devices are being used to create this?
List all of the techniques you can use to discuss in a prose essay
tone, diction, detail, POV, syntax