Organization refers to how a piece of writing is structured and arranged. In AP English, students learn that organization affects how clearly and effectively an argument or message is communicated.
Writers use different methods of organization — such as chronological order, cause and effect, compare and contrast, or problem and solution — to guide the reader through their ideas. Analysing organization helps students understand how a writer builds meaning, develops arguments, and achieves their purpose.
Example of organization in an AP English text
In 'Letter from Birmingham Jail' by Martin Luther King Jr., the letter is carefully organized to respond to criticism point by point.
King begins by explaining why he is in Birmingham, then addresses each concern from the clergymen in a logical order. This structure helps strengthen his argument by showing a clear, thoughtful progression of ideas.
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