Enhancing Essay Commentary Skills

The video tutorial by Coach Hall focuses on developing commentary in AP Lang synthesis essays. It explains the importance of commentary as analysis and interpretation, emphasizing the need for more commentary than evidence. The tutorial suggests using power verbs and a list of questions to enhance commentary. It also discusses incorporating background knowledge and personal experience effectively. The video concludes with a call to explore additional resources for writing synthesis essays.

What is the primary focus of the video?

• Developing thesis statements

• Improving grammar skills

• Enhancing commentary in synthesis essays

• Writing introductions

What is commentary in the context of an essay?

• A conclusion paragraph

• An analysis of evidence

• A list of sources

• A summary of the essay

Why should commentary be more prevalent than evidence in an essay?

• To make the essay longer

• To showcase original thoughts and interpretations

• To reduce the need for sources

• To simplify the writing process

What is the purpose of using power verbs in commentary?

• To make sentences longer

• To highlight the significance of evidence

• To confuse the reader

• To replace nouns

Which of the following is NOT a power verb mentioned in the video?

• Illustrates

• Conveys

• Highlights

• Runs

What is a key strategy for developing commentary according to the video?

• Asking specific questions

• Citing more sources

• Using complex vocabulary

• Writing longer paragraphs

Which question type helps identify who benefits or is disadvantaged by an issue?

• What

• Who

• Where

• When

What can 'When' questions help determine in an essay?

• The number of sources needed

• The importance of evidence

• The timing of actions

• The location of an issue

How do 'Why' questions contribute to commentary?

• By summarizing the essay

• By listing pros and cons

• By explaining the significance of an issue

• By providing historical context

What is a benefit of using personal experience in essays?

• It reduces the need for research

• It builds credibility

• It makes the essay longer

• It simplifies the writing process