English Literature & Composition

English Literature and Composition 

During this AP English Literature and Composition APSI, you will explore the course framework, the exam, and the AP resources that will help you plan your course, focus instruction, and provide feedback throughout the year on the areas where individual students need additional support. Using contemporary and classic literature, we will explore instructional strategies and assessments with equity and access as guiding principles. During the week we will examine topics of course and syllabi design, the AP exam, poetry, short works of fiction, major works of fiction (novels and drama), and writing. We will work on tweaking and/or constructing lesson plans and units. For those needing to construct a syllabus, guidance will be provided. Please bring teaching resources you want to revise or incorporate into your school year. By attending this APSI, you’ll gain deeper insight into the following key takeaways, among several others: Understand the Course; Plan the Course; Teach the Course; Assess Student Progress; and Engage as a Member of the AP Community. The workshop will be largely hands-on and differentiated to the degree needed.

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Instructor: Zachary Jostad

Zachary Jostad has 14 years of experience in the classroom as a secondary English Language Arts educator, all in Bentonville (AR) Public Schools. He has taught a wide range of courses, including eight years of AP English Literature and Composition. A National Board Certified Teacher, Zachary has been an AP Reader since 2023 and leads AP workshops and summer institutes, both in-person and online. He has presented at the Arkansas Curriculum Conference, the AP Annual Conference, and the NCTE Annual Convention.

At Bentonville West High School, Zachary advises the award-winning Yawp Literary Magazine and spearheads West Writers, a student organization dedicated to fostering a culture that celebrates and supports young writers. His professional mission centers on empowering students and equipping teachers with the tools and confidence they need to thrive.