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AP® English Literature and Composition · Unit 7 · Topic 7.7

Thesis and Commentary: Topic Checklist (English Literature 7.7)

Specific “I can…” statements for thesis, commentary and sophistication moves in short-fiction essays, each linked to the guide section or practice question that tests it.

Work through the list without notes. If you cannot do a statement, follow the link, then come back. Guide = study guide; Practice = practice questions.

Understanding

  • I can explain that a thesis expresses an interpretation that needs a defence through evidence and a line of reasoning. (Guide: “From claim to argument”; Practice Question 1)
  • I can explain that commentary shows the logical relationship between a thesis and the claims and evidence. (Guide: “The commentary chain”; Practice Question 5)
  • I can name three sophistication moves: broader context, alternative interpretation and analogy. (Guide: “Sophistication moves at a glance”; Practice Questions 2, 3 and 4)
  • I can explain why a sophistication move must be integrated and supported by evidence. (Guide: “Common misconceptions”; Practice Question 7)

Skills

  • I can build a thesis from a weak draft step by step. (Guide: Worked example 1; Practice Questions 1 and 7)
  • I can write commentary that discusses an alternative interpretation and answers it. (Guide: Worked example 2; Practice Questions 2 and 8)
  • I can link an interpretation to a broader context using evidence from the text. (Guide: Worked example 2; Practice Question 3)
  • I can choose an analogy that clarifies a point, and reject one that does not fit. (Guide: “Sophistication moves at a glance”; Practice Question 4)

Reasoning

  • I can revise a thesis when my evidence contradicts it. (Guide: FAQs; Practice Question 6)
  • I can use the self-assessment table to rate a draft. (Guide: “Self-assessment table”)
  • I can plan a thesis, a line of reasoning and a sophistication move for a short story. (Practice Question 9)

All ticked? Move on to the Topic 7.8 study guide, Selecting Relevant and Sufficient Evidence.

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