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English Language & Composition

John Williamson

A Kentucky educator and native, John Williamson is currently the Dean of K-12 Programs at Eastern Kentucky University and Superintendent at Model Laboratory School where he also teaches AP English.

With more than 25 years’ experience as an AP teacher, reader, and consultant, John is well versed in effective strategies for helping all students tackle challenging content and develop critical reading and writing skills.

John’s professional career in education has afforded him many opportunities, including Vice President of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment for the College Board’s AP Program; superintendent, curriculum director, and AP teacher in a variety of school districts—large and small as well as rural and suburban; and ELA curriculum specialist for the Kentucky Department of Education.

John holds Master’s degrees in Educational Administration and English from Columbia University (NY) and Morehead State University (KY) respectively and an undergraduate major in English teaching from Eastern Kentucky University.

Course Description

This course provides an intensive exploration of pedagogical approaches and instructional approaches critical for the teaching of composition and rhetoric, with emphasis on their application in an AP English Language and Composition course.  Core topics include argumentation, close reading and critical analysis of non-fiction texts, rhetorical grammar, Curriculum design will be a focus:  scope and sequence, teaching for understanding and transfer, skill scaffolding.  Concepts of assessment, including formative assessments and feedback as well rubric development and application will be integrated.  The course will also provide participants opportunity to understand the new Course and Exam Description, AP Classroom (personal progress checks, dashboard, and test bank), and scoring rubrics.