Response to Course Material - Post 1

To help prepare for the AP Literature test this spring, we have learned about the important techniques that we, as the reader, look for in a novel. By learning about DIDLS I find it easier to analyze literature because I have specific techniques to look for. Some of my teachers in the past have given me a piece of literature and had me analyze the meaning and why we thought this was the meaning. Be applying DIDLS to Close Reading I find myself digging deeper into literature by examining diction, imagery, details and language more closely, while staying away from those found in the plot.

Another thing that has helped me as a growing writer is how the introductions of open prompts are written. In the past I have always known to answer all parts of the question, but there was little instruction of how to write a solid, short and right-to-the-point introduction for any essay. I have been taught in the past that introductions with lots of detail that include the main point of the story are the best kinds and should always be used when writing any essay. Learning about these new guidelines, I find that writing introductions are much easier and that given any prompt, I could write a solid (non plot inclusive) intro.

Even though we have only been in AP Lit class for a few weeks, I find both reading and writing to be easier and more enjoyable. While I do read and write for personal enjoyment, I am learning to analyze literature on a higher and more sophisticated level, using things like DIDLS to help me think about why the author used certain words or imagery to enhance the story. I also find now that I am staying clear to retelling the plot in an essay and using techniques instead as my supports. I see myself in the future analyzing everything; from novels, to movies, to plays, utilizing all my analytical knowledge to look beyond the scene.