1999 AP Literature Multiple Choice Answers

Preparing for an advanced placement exam requires focused effort and a strategic approach. One crucial component of this preparation is understanding the types of questions that may appear and how to effectively approach them. By reviewing past tests, students can gain insight into common patterns and develop the skills needed to tackle various question types with confidence.

Familiarity with test format and practice with sample questions are essential for success. These tools help to improve speed and accuracy, two key factors that contribute to a higher score. In this guide, we will explore key strategies for approaching questions from previous exams, providing helpful tips for effective study and exam day performance.

By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of how to approach each segment of the exam, utilize practice materials, and refine your answering techniques. This comprehensive approach is designed to maximize your chances of success and ensure that you are well-prepared for the test ahead.

1999 AP Literature Multiple Choice Answers

When preparing for an advanced exam, it’s crucial to understand the structure and approach required to answer questions effectively. Reviewing past test questions can provide valuable insight into the kinds of skills needed to succeed. By breaking down the various aspects of the exam and learning how to respond strategically, students can improve their performance significantly.

Key Strategies for Answering Exam Questions

• Read each passage thoroughly before reviewing the options.
• Identify key themes or literary techniques that are being tested.
• Eliminate obviously incorrect choices to narrow down your options.
• Pay attention to the specific wording of each question to avoid misinterpretation.
• Consider context and tone when analyzing the passage and responses.

Commonly Tested Concepts

1. Understanding character development and motivations.
2. Identifying literary devices such as metaphor, symbolism, and irony.
3. Recognizing the themes and central ideas within a text.
4. Analyzing the structure and pacing of a passage.
5. Interpreting the author’s intent or purpose in the writing.

Familiarizing yourself with these strategies and concepts will give you a clear advantage. Practice and review of previous questions allow for better preparedness and a more confident approach to the test. By mastering these techniques, you can maximize your chances of achieving a strong score on the exam.

Overview of the 1999 AP Literature Exam

The exam is designed to test students’ ability to analyze and interpret texts from various genres. It includes different sections that evaluate comprehension, analytical skills, and the ability to express critical thoughts clearly. A key part of preparing for the test is understanding the structure of the exam and the types of questions that will be asked.

The exam consists of two main components: a multiple-choice section and a free-response section. Each section assesses different skills but is focused on the same goal–evaluating a student’s understanding of written works and their ability to discuss themes, techniques, and meanings effectively.

Section	Number of Questions	Time Allotted	Skills Assessed
Comprehension and Analysis	55	1 hour	Reading comprehension, identifying literary techniques
Free Response	3 Essays	2 hours	Critical thinking, thematic analysis, argumentation

The multiple-choice section evaluates how well you understand and interpret various excerpts, focusing on your ability to identify the author’s purpose and the underlying messages. The free-response section requires you to write essays that explore specific themes or techniques in the given texts, demanding deeper analysis and a more structured approach.

By familiarizing yourself with this structure, you can better plan your study sessions and approach each section with the right mindset. Knowing what to expect can help reduce anxiety and increase your overall efficiency when answering questions on exam day.

Key Topics Covered in 1999 Test

The exam assesses a wide range of literary concepts, requiring students to demonstrate their understanding of various themes, techniques, and stylistic elements. It focuses on evaluating the ability to recognize and analyze the deeper meanings within texts, considering both the structure and content of the writing. Key areas include character development, symbolism, tone, and narrative style.

Important Themes and Concepts

• Character Development: Understanding the motivations and growth of characters throughout the passage.
• Symbolism: Identifying symbols and interpreting their significance in the context of the text.
• Tone and Mood: Analyzing how the author’s choice of language sets the emotional tone of the passage.
• Literary Devices: Recognizing techniques such as metaphor, allusion, and irony that enhance the meaning of the text.

Literary Forms and Structures

• Poetry: Analyzing meter, rhyme, and other structural elements in poetry.
• Prose: Understanding narrative structure, pacing, and character relationships in prose works.
• Drama: Interpreting dialogue, setting, and conflict resolution in dramatic works.

These topics are central to the exam, and understanding how they intersect with each other can provide a deeper appreciation for the works being studied. By focusing on these areas, students can develop a critical approach to literature, which is essential for answering the questions effectively and accurately.

Understanding the Question Format

The exam features questions that assess various aspects of reading comprehension, interpretation, and analytical thinking. Understanding the structure and approach required to answer each question is essential for performing well. The format is designed to test how well you can engage with the text and identify key ideas, themes, and techniques within the passage.

Key Elements of the Question Format

• Passage-based Questions: These questions are based on excerpts from different texts, requiring you to analyze specific parts of the writing.
• Contextual Understanding: Some questions assess your ability to grasp the broader context or meaning behind a particular passage.
• Literary Analysis: Questions often test your skills in identifying literary devices, such as symbolism or irony, used in the text.
• Inference and Interpretation: Many questions will ask you to infer the author’s intentions or the deeper meaning of a passage.

Approaching the Questions

• Read Carefully: Take time to understand the passage before moving to the questions. Focus on key words and phrases that may hint at deeper meanings.
• Eliminate Incorrect Options: Narrow down your choices by eliminating the clearly wrong answers first.
• Consider the Tone: Pay attention to the tone and mood of the passage, as it can often guide your understanding of the author’s intent.
• Look for Context Clues: Many questions rely on subtle details within the text to guide you toward the correct answer.

Familiarizing yourself with the question format allows you to better manage your time and enhance your ability to respond accurately. The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll become with interpreting the questions and applying your analytical skills to the texts presented.

Strategies for Answering Multiple Choice

Success on this section of the exam requires not only a deep understanding of the text but also a strategic approach to answering questions efficiently. By applying specific techniques, you can enhance your ability to navigate the options and select the best response. The key is to stay focused, use logic, and eliminate incorrect answers quickly.

Effective Techniques for Responding

• Read the Passage Thoroughly: Before moving to the questions, make sure you fully understand the passage. Focus on the main idea, tone, and any significant literary devices used.
• Analyze the Question: Carefully read the question to understand what it’s asking. Look for keywords that direct you to specific information within the passage.
• Eliminate Clearly Wrong Options: Often, some choices are obviously incorrect. Narrowing down your options will increase your chances of selecting the correct one.
• Look for Context Clues: Refer back to the passage for specific clues that support one of the answers. Pay attention to details like word choice, character actions, and overall theme.

Time Management Tips

• Don’t Overthink: If you’re stuck on a question, don’t waste too much time. Mark it and move on, returning later if you have time.
• Prioritize Easy Questions: Start with the questions that are most straightforward. This helps you gain confidence and save time for more difficult ones.
• Manage Your Time Wisely: Keep an eye on the clock. Make sure you’re pacing yourself so you have enough time to carefully review all questions.

By mastering these strategies, you can approach the section with confidence and improve your chances of achieving a higher score. A calm and methodical approach is essential to managing both time and accuracy during the exam.

How to Analyze Literary Passages

Analyzing a passage requires more than just understanding its surface meaning. It involves breaking down the text to explore deeper themes, character motivations, and stylistic elements. A careful and methodical approach allows you to uncover the nuances that can help in interpreting the author’s intent and the overall message of the piece. Effective analysis is essential for answering related questions accurately, as it demonstrates your ability to engage critically with the material.

Steps for Analyzing a Passage

• Identify the Main Idea: Start by understanding the central theme or message of the passage. What is the author trying to convey? This will often guide the interpretation of other elements in the text.
• Examine the Structure: Consider how the passage is organized. Does the author use a particular narrative structure, such as flashbacks, dialogue, or shifts in point of view?
• Focus on Language and Tone: Pay attention to the choice of words and the tone of the passage. Are there any significant words or phrases that convey emotion or set the mood?
• Look for Literary Devices: Identify key literary techniques such as metaphor, symbolism, irony, and imagery. How do these devices contribute to the passage’s meaning?

Understanding Character and Theme

• Character Analysis: Look at the characters’ actions, dialogue, and development. What do their choices reveal about their motivations and personalities?
• Theme Exploration: Reflect on the themes presented in the passage. How do they relate to the characters and the overall narrative? What broader societal or philosophical issues are being addressed?

By applying these steps, you can develop a deeper understanding of any text. Analyzing literary works in this way not only improves comprehension but also enhances your ability to answer related questions thoughtfully and with confidence.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid in AP Literature

When preparing for this exam, it’s important to recognize and avoid common mistakes that can hinder your performance. Many students fall into traps that could be easily avoided with a little attention to detail and a more thoughtful approach to reading and answering questions. By understanding these pitfalls, you can refine your strategy and improve your chances of success.

One of the most common issues is failing to thoroughly understand the passage before jumping into the questions. Rushing through the reading can lead to misinterpretation, missing key details, or misjudging the tone or theme. Another mistake is not carefully considering all of the answer options. Often, the most tempting answer might not be the most accurate, and taking the time to evaluate each choice critically can prevent errors.

Overgeneralizing or relying on stereotypes about certain literary genres or authors can also lead to mistakes. While it’s useful to draw on prior knowledge, it’s essential to treat each passage on its own merits. Another pitfall is neglecting to revisit the text during the question process. Reexamining key phrases or lines can provide additional insights that might help clarify an answer. Lastly, managing time poorly or overthinking a question can negatively impact your ability to complete the exam effectively.

By being aware of these traps and actively working to avoid them, you’ll be better equipped to approach the exam with confidence and accuracy.

Score Breakdown for the 1999 Exam

The scoring system for this exam is designed to evaluate your understanding and analytical abilities across various sections. Your overall performance is determined by combining the results from different parts of the test, each focusing on distinct aspects of reading comprehension and critical thinking. Understanding how the scoring works can help you focus your efforts on the most important areas and improve your performance.

The exam consists of two main components: the objective section and the written analysis. Each section contributes to your final score, with the objective section typically assessing your ability to interpret text and recognize key elements. The written portion, on the other hand, is a more in-depth evaluation of your analytical and interpretive skills. A significant portion of your score comes from the accuracy of your responses to questions, as well as the depth of analysis in the written responses.

Here is a breakdown of how the scoring is generally distributed:

Component	Percentage of Final Score
Objective Section	50%
Written Analysis	50%

Each section is scored on a scale, with specific point values assigned to correct answers and the quality of written responses. The final score is then converted into a scaled score, which helps to compare results across different years and test takers. A higher score typically indicates a stronger grasp of reading and analytical skills, which is essential for success in this exam.

Reviewing Important Literary Terms

A solid understanding of key literary concepts is essential for interpreting texts accurately and responding to related questions effectively. These terms are often central to the structure, style, and meaning of a passage, and recognizing them can give you a significant advantage. Familiarizing yourself with these concepts will help you analyze the text with greater depth and precision, making it easier to identify the correct answers to questions.

Key Literary Concepts to Remember

• Imagery: The use of vivid and descriptive language to create pictures in the reader’s mind, often appealing to the senses.
• Symbolism: The use of objects, characters, or events to represent abstract ideas or themes.
• Irony: A contrast between expectation and reality, often revealing a deeper meaning or truth.
• Theme: The central topic or message of a text, which reflects the author’s perspective or insights into a particular subject.
• Allusion: A reference to another text, historical event, or cultural element that adds layers of meaning to the passage.

Understanding Structure and Style

• Point of View: The perspective from which the story is told (e.g., first-person, third-person omniscient, third-person limited).
• Tone: The attitude or feeling conveyed by the author’s language, which can be formal, informal, sarcastic, humorous, etc.
• Allegory: A narrative in which characters, events, or settings represent abstract ideas or moral qualities.
• Motif: A recurring element or theme that appears throughout a work, reinforcing the overall message.

By understanding these essential terms and how they function in a text, you can analyze passages more effectively and approach related questions with a stronger grasp of the material. Mastery of these concepts allows you to uncover layers of meaning that are critical to achieving high scores.

Significant Themes in the 1999 Exam

The ability to identify and analyze key themes is a critical aspect of this examination. The themes explored in the texts often reflect broader societal issues, human emotions, or universal concepts that are relevant to the context of the work. Understanding these themes helps you engage with the material on a deeper level and makes it easier to interpret the text, leading to more accurate responses to related questions.

Key Themes to Focus On

• Identity and Self-Discovery: Many works explore the journey of understanding oneself, dealing with internal conflicts, and defining one’s place in the world.
• Love and Relationships: Romantic, familial, and platonic relationships are often central to the plot, illustrating various dynamics between individuals.
• Power and Corruption: This theme examines how power can be wielded and abused, often leading to moral decay or conflict.
• Isolation and Alienation: Characters often grapple with feelings of loneliness, exclusion, or detachment, which can influence their actions and decisions.
• Morality and Ethics: Works may delve into the complexities of right and wrong, questioning societal norms and personal principles.

Analyzing Social and Political Themes

• Social Injustice: Many texts address the inequalities and struggles faced by marginalized groups, focusing on themes of discrimination, racism, and class division.
• War and Conflict: The impact of warfare, both physical and emotional, is explored in many works, reflecting on its effect on individuals and societies.
• Human Nature and Society: Examining the nature of humanity, this theme questions the roles individuals play within larger social structures and systems.

By recognizing and understanding these recurring themes, you will be better equipped to approach the material critically and engage with the texts at a deeper level. These themes often form the foundation for both the multiple-choice questions and the written analysis, so being familiar with them is essential for success.

Recommended Study Materials for AP Prep

When preparing for the exam, using the right study materials is crucial for success. The goal is to familiarize yourself with both the content and the structure of the test. The following resources can help you gain a deeper understanding of the material, improve your test-taking skills, and provide practice in the types of questions you will encounter. Below is a list of some highly recommended study materials to guide your preparation.

Essential Study Resources

• Practice Tests: Taking full-length practice exams is one of the best ways to assess your knowledge and improve your timing. They allow you to become familiar with the format and types of questions on the exam.
• Review Books: Comprehensive AP prep books often offer in-depth explanations of key concepts, along with practice questions and detailed solutions.
• Study Guides: Concise, targeted study guides are great for reviewing important themes, terms, and techniques that are frequently tested.
• Online Resources: Websites and educational platforms offer free or subscription-based practice questions, review materials, and even video tutorials that can deepen your understanding of difficult topics.
• Flashcards: Flashcards are useful for memorizing key terms, literary devices, and themes quickly and efficiently.

Helpful Reference Materials

Material Type	Description
AP Prep Books	These books typically contain practice tests, test-taking strategies, and reviews of key content areas.
Online Practice Quizzes	Interactive quizzes that simulate the style and difficulty of real exam questions help you test your knowledge in real-time.
Study Groups	Collaborating with peers can help you fill gaps in your knowledge and gain new insights into challenging topics.

Using a combination of these resources will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the material, sharpen your skills, and prepare you for the exam’s demands. Make sure to schedule regular study sessions and track your progress to ensure a well-rounded approach to preparation.

Time Management Tips for AP Literature

Effective time management is crucial when preparing for the exam. Proper planning and efficient use of your study time will ensure that you cover all necessary topics and have time to review key concepts before the test. The following tips will help you optimize your study schedule, reduce stress, and maximize your performance on exam day.

Key Time Management Strategies

• Create a Study Schedule: Break down your study material into manageable chunks and allocate time each day to cover specific topics. Be realistic about how much time you can dedicate each day.
• Prioritize Important Areas: Focus on the areas where you need the most improvement, but don’t neglect other sections of the material. Review all topics, with extra attention to challenging content.
• Set Specific Goals: For each study session, set a clear goal, such as completing a certain number of practice questions or reviewing a specific set of literary terms. This will keep you on track and motivated.
• Take Breaks: Studying for long hours without rest can lead to burnout. Schedule short breaks to relax and recharge, which will help you stay focused during your sessions.
• Track Your Progress: Regularly check your progress to ensure you are covering everything needed. Adjust your schedule if certain topics require more or less time.

Sample Time Allocation for Study Sessions

Study Activity	Time Allocation
Reading Practice Passages	30 minutes
Answering Practice Questions	45 minutes
Reviewing Incorrect Answers	20 minutes
Studying Key Literary Terms	25 minutes
Taking Breaks	5-10 minutes every hour

By setting a clear study plan, staying disciplined, and following these time management tips, you can ensure that you are well-prepared and confident going into the exam. Time management is the key to avoiding last-minute stress and maximizing your chances of success.

What to Expect on the AP Exam Day

On the day of the exam, it’s important to be prepared for both the structure and environment of the test. Knowing what to expect will help alleviate any anxiety and allow you to focus on performing your best. The exam typically includes two main sections: one that focuses on reading comprehension and analysis, and another that involves writing essays based on literary prompts. Each section has specific guidelines, timing, and expectations that you should familiarize yourself with beforehand.

As you arrive at the testing location, be sure to bring the necessary materials, including pencils, an eraser, and a valid ID. You may also be required to bring a calculator, depending on the exam format. Dress comfortably, but keep in mind that testing centers can sometimes be cold, so it’s wise to bring a light jacket or sweater.

Once seated, you will be given instructions regarding the rules for the exam and the timing for each section. The proctors will walk you through the process, and any questions or concerns can be addressed at that time. Expect to spend a few hours on the test, with scheduled breaks in between sections. It’s important to manage your time wisely during each part of the exam, as you’ll need to balance careful reading with efficient answering.

During the reading section, you will encounter several passages followed by questions that assess your ability to analyze and interpret the material. This portion typically requires focused attention, as you will need to identify key themes, literary devices, and the author’s intent. In the essay section, you will be asked to write responses that showcase your understanding of various topics and your ability to craft well-organized, thoughtful arguments.

Knowing these details ahead of time will help you stay calm, organized, and focused throughout the exam. The more familiar you are with the process, the better prepared you’ll be to approach the test with confidence.

How to Interpret AP Literature Prompts

Understanding how to approach and interpret exam prompts is crucial for success. Prompts are designed to test your analytical skills, ability to construct an argument, and capacity to support your ideas with evidence from the text. Instead of rushing through the prompt, take a moment to carefully break it down and understand what is being asked. By analyzing each part of the prompt, you can create a more focused and coherent response.

Start by identifying key terms in the prompt, such as “analyze,” “discuss,” “compare,” or “interpret.” These verbs provide clues about the kind of response the prompt is seeking. For example, “analyze” might suggest that you need to examine how literary elements contribute to the overall meaning of a text, while “discuss” could indicate that you should explore various perspectives on a topic. Pay attention to any specific instructions regarding what text or part of the work you should focus on, as this will help you narrow your analysis to the relevant section.

Next, consider the context and underlying themes of the prompt. What is the prompt asking you to focus on? Are there recurring motifs or key issues within the work that the question touches on? Be sure to look for these elements as they will guide your argument and analysis. Once you’ve broken down the prompt, take time to plan your response. Outline the main points you want to cover and the evidence you will use to support your argument.

Finally, stay focused on the prompt throughout your essay. As you write, keep returning to the original question to ensure that your response remains relevant and fully addresses all aspects of the prompt. By interpreting the prompt carefully and structuring your response thoughtfully, you can provide a well-rounded and insightful answer that demonstrates your understanding of the material.

Scoring and Grading Insights for 1999

The grading process for standardized exams plays a crucial role in determining student performance and achievement. Understanding the criteria and system used for evaluating responses can help students better prepare and focus their efforts. The scoring system typically breaks down into different sections, each assessing various aspects of student understanding and skill, such as reading comprehension, analysis, and writing proficiency. Gaining insight into how responses are scored can offer valuable guidance for approaching different types of questions.

Each exam typically consists of multiple components, such as objective sections that assess recognition of key concepts, as well as subjective questions that gauge deeper understanding and critical thinking. Responses are graded based on a clear rubric that evaluates accuracy, depth, and coherence of arguments. The weight of each section in the overall score varies, so it is essential to recognize where to focus efforts for maximum impact.

Understanding the Grading Criteria

The grading system often involves assigning a score based on the number of correct responses, as well as evaluating the quality and clarity of written responses. For essay-based sections, graders look for logical organization, a well-supported argument, and the use of relevant evidence. Quality is measured not just by factual correctness, but also by the depth of analysis and the ability to make connections between different ideas.

Factors Affecting Your Score

Factors such as time management and clarity of thought can also impact your score. Responses that are rushed or disorganized are typically marked down, even if the content is accurate. It’s important to not only answer the questions correctly but also to present your thoughts clearly and concisely. Review your answers for any mistakes and ensure that all instructions are fully addressed to maximize your score.

Using Practice Tests for Preparation

Practice exams are one of the most effective tools for preparing for standardized assessments. They allow students to familiarize themselves with the format, timing, and types of questions that will be asked, providing valuable insights into how to approach the test. By simulating the actual exam experience, practice tests help reduce anxiety and improve confidence, making students better equipped for the real thing.

Incorporating regular practice tests into your study routine enables you to track progress and identify areas that need further attention. They also help you develop time management skills, as you learn how to pace yourself throughout the exam. The more practice tests you take, the better you will understand the test’s structure and the types of questions that are likely to appear, allowing you to hone your test-taking strategies.

Benefits of Practice Exams

Practice tests provide several key benefits, such as:

• Building familiarity: By taking practice tests, you become more comfortable with the test format, reducing surprises on the exam day.
• Identifying weaknesses: Regular practice allows you to pinpoint areas where you’re struggling, so you can focus your study efforts accordingly.
• Improving speed: By practicing under timed conditions, you can improve your ability to answer questions quickly and efficiently.
• Increasing confidence: Successfully completing practice exams boosts your self-assurance, helping you stay calm and focused during the actual test.

How to Use Practice Tests Effectively

To get the most out of practice exams, it’s important to approach them strategically. Start by taking a full-length test under timed conditions to simulate the actual exam. Afterward, carefully review your results to identify patterns in the types of questions you missed. Focus on understanding why your answers were incorrect, and use this information to guide your studying. Taking practice tests periodically throughout your preparation will help reinforce your learning and keep you on track for success.

Final Tips for Acing the AP Exam

As you approach the final stages of your preparation, it’s crucial to focus on key strategies that will help you maximize your performance. Success in standardized assessments often depends on not only how much you’ve studied but also how effectively you can apply that knowledge under timed conditions. These last-minute tips will help you sharpen your test-taking skills, manage your time efficiently, and boost your confidence on exam day.

Effective Test-Taking Strategies

Implementing the right strategies during the test is just as important as preparing for it. Here are some practical approaches to keep in mind:

• Read Carefully: Whether it’s a passage or a question, take your time to fully understand what’s being asked before making your choice. Rushed decisions can lead to avoidable mistakes.
• Eliminate Incorrect Options: When faced with a question, start by eliminating obviously incorrect answers. This increases your chances of selecting the correct one, even if you need to make an educated guess.
• Manage Your Time: Allocate enough time for each section of the exam, ensuring that you don’t rush through any part. If you’re stuck on a question, move on and return to it later.
• Stay Calm: Keep your composure throughout the exam. If you feel anxious, take a deep breath and refocus. Confidence plays a major role in decision-making under pressure.

Reviewing and Reflecting

After completing your practice tests and final review sessions, it’s essential to reflect on your progress and areas for improvement. Spend time reviewing your mistakes and understanding why certain answers were incorrect. This final review will help reinforce the material and ensure you’re prepared for any unexpected challenges on the test.

Additionally, rest and relaxation in the days leading up to the exam are crucial. A good night’s sleep before the exam will help you stay alert and perform at your best.

Exam Day Checklist

Item	Preparation Tip
Test Admission Ticket	Ensure you have the necessary documentation and are aware of the test center location.
Personal Identification	Bring a valid photo ID for verification purposes.
Writing Tools	Bring several sharpened pencils and an eraser. No pens allowed.
Water and Snacks	Stay hydrated and bring a light snack for the break.