AP lang Flashcards
Reading evidence (8 cards)
Mother tongue - Amy Tan
Summary: Reflects on her mothers broken english shaped her understanding of language identity and culture towards those in the immigrant experience
Purpose: She argues that “broken” English is not a sign of lack of intelligence but a meaningful, expressive form of communication that deserves respect.
what’s in a name - Henery Gates jr
Summary: Recounts a childhood memory where a white man called his father by his first name but expected to be addressed as “Mister,” revealing the deep racial disrespect built into everyday interactions.
Purpose: Gates aims to expose how racism can be embedded in language and social customs, and how these subtle acts can have lasting emotional impact.
Superman and me - Sherman Alexie
Summary: how learning to read using comic books empowered him as a Native American child to break stereotypes.
Purpose: Education is a powerful force for breaking cycles of marginalization, especially for minority students.
“This Is Water” – David Foster Wallace
Summary: Wallace encourages graduates to be aware of their thinking and to choose compassion and mindfulness in everyday life.
Purpose: Real freedom comes from choosing how to think and being aware of others rather than living on autopilot. - finding meaning in ordinary life
“Why I Want a Wife” – Judy Brady
Summary: Brady satirically lists the unrealistic expectations placed on wives to expose gender inequality in marriage.
Purpose: To critique traditional gender roles and highlight the unfair burdens placed on women. The expectations society places on wives are unjust and rooted in deeply ingrained sexism.
“A Call to Men” – Tony Porter
Summary: Porter discusses how the “man box” — a narrow definition of masculinity — harms both men and women.
Purpose: To challenge toxic masculinity and promote healthier, more emotional definitions of manhood.
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks – Rebecca Skloot
Summary: Skloot tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, whose cells were used for major scientific breakthroughs without her consent or knowledge
Purpose: To shed light on issues of medical ethics, racism, and the human cost of scientific progress.
