SAHS Academics > English Department Web Site > Advanced Placement

Language Arts Advanced Placement Vertical Teams and Reading List

"The concept of English Vertical Teams incorporates the idea that AP English should not be an isolated course, but rather a planned program for teaching skills and concepts over several years." ~ College Board

Based on recommendations from the College Board, the Souderton Area School District secondary Language Arts program adopted Vertical Teaming.

The SASD advanced placement vertical team consists of the instructors of high achieving language arts students from grades 6-12. These students are most likely to take one or both of the advanced placement courses offered to 11th and 12th graders and to take the advanced placement exam for college credit. The depth and breadth of a student's reading experience is assessed on both the AP Composition and AP Literature exams. Additionally, student success on these tests is strongly correlated with the depth and breadth of reading experience along with use of language in composition.

In order to provide an optimal opportunity for student success in our AP program, the language arts vertical team has compiled a list of enriched reading. We encourage students to read as many of the titles as possible since no matter how comprehensive any single course might be, a single course can never provide the reading experience that can be attained over six years.

• SASD Advanced Placement Vertical Team Reading Recommendations List (PDF)

This list is not meant to be exclusive. Books of equal merit may be read as alternatives or additions. The following site contains a compilation of works referenced on the AP Literature test and may be helpful for alternative selections: http://homepage.mac.com/mseffie/AP/APtitles.html

Note: Students should consult their parents when selecting books as they contain material suitable to a broad audience. These books and films are quality recommendations, but may not suit the tastes and preferences of every reader.