AP English Language Unit 6 Cheatsheet: Style and Evidence

Position: The stance or answer to a question (e.g., "Social media harms mental health").

Perspective: The viewpoint shaped by background, interests, expertise, and values.

• Two sources can share the same position but come from different perspectives.
• A psychologist and a tech CEO may both say social media is harmful, but their reasoning and concerns differ.
• When synthesizing, recognize why each source holds its position, not just what it claims.

Bias: A source's tendency to favor certain ideas or ignore others.

Measure of bias: How much a source considers opposing positions.

• A source that acknowledges counterarguments is less biased.
• Dismissing or ignoring other perspectives can be a sign of bias, though it isn't proof on its own—also weigh the source's purpose, audience, and use of evidence.
• Strongest arguments acknowledge and account for source limitations and biases.
• Credibility varies: expert sources, peer-reviewed studies, and balanced reporting are generally more reliable.

When drawing from multiple sources:

• Select strategically: Choose the most relevant information for your argument, not everything.
• Combine aptly: Use specific details that directly support your claim.
• Make it yours: Integrate source material into your own reasoning; don't just list sources.
• Avoid contradiction: If new sources contradict your thesis, revise your argument or explain why you still hold your position.