AP Spanish Language and Culture FRQ Practice

1. Interpretive Communication: Reading and Listening

Question:

You have read the following article about the impact of social media on youth in Spanish-speaking countries:

Excerpt from the article:

"La influencia de las redes sociales en los jóvenes de América Latina está cambiando la forma en que se relacionan y consumen información. Según estudios recientes, más del 70% de los adolescentes pasan al menos tres horas al día en plataformas como Instagram, TikTok y Facebook. Aunque las redes sociales ofrecen la posibilidad de conectarse con amigos y conocer nuevas ideas, también pueden contribuir a la ansiedad y la baja autoestima debido a la presión por mantener una imagen perfecta."

After reading the article, answer the following questions in Spanish:

1. ¿Cómo influyen las redes sociales en la vida de los jóvenes en América Latina según el artículo?
2. ¿Qué aspectos positivos y negativos se mencionan sobre las redes sociales?
3. ¿Cuál es el impacto de las redes sociales en la autoestima de los adolescentes?

Response Guidelines:

• In your responses, summarize the main ideas in the article.
• Answer all questions in complete sentences using your own words.
• Focus on explaining the key points regarding the positive and negative effects of social media on youth.

Grading Rubric:

• Level 5 (Excellent):
  The response is thorough and accurate, addressing all aspects of the questions with relevant details and clear explanations. The language is fluent and well-organized.
  Score: 5 points
• Level 4 (Good):
  The response answers the questions clearly but may be slightly less detailed or organized. Minor errors in grammar or vocabulary may be present but do not hinder comprehension.
  Score: 4 points
• Level 3 (Satisfactory):
  The response addresses most parts of the questions but may lack depth or detail. Some grammatical or vocabulary errors are present, but they do not significantly affect understanding.
  Score: 3 points
• Level 2 (Limited):
  The response is incomplete or does not fully address the questions. There are noticeable issues with grammar and vocabulary that hinder understanding.
  Score: 2 points
• Level 1 (Weak):
  The response is minimal or incorrect, with major language errors that impede comprehension.
  Score: 1 point

2. Written Presentational Communication: Argumentative Essay

Question:

Write an essay in Spanish discussing the advantages and disadvantages of learning a second language at a young age. Use specific examples to support your arguments.

Response Guidelines:

• Begin with an introductory paragraph presenting the topic.
• Organize your essay with clear arguments and supporting examples.
• Conclude by summarizing your main points and offering a final opinion on the topic.
• Focus on using varied vocabulary and complex sentence structures.

Grading Rubric:

• Level 5 (Excellent):
  The essay is well-organized, with clear arguments and supporting examples. It demonstrates a high level of proficiency in Spanish, using varied vocabulary and complex sentence structures.
  Score: 5 points
• Level 4 (Good):
  The essay is clearly organized with strong arguments and relevant examples. Some minor errors in grammar or vocabulary may be present but do not detract from the overall clarity.
  Score: 4 points
• Level 3 (Satisfactory):
  The essay addresses the topic with basic arguments and examples. Some parts may lack depth or clarity, and there are noticeable grammar or vocabulary errors.
  Score: 3 points
• Level 2 (Limited):
  The essay lacks clear organization or depth. Several grammatical or vocabulary errors affect the clarity of the response.
  Score: 2 points
• Level 1 (Weak):
  The essay is underdeveloped or unclear, with significant grammar or vocabulary errors.
  Score: 1 point

3. Spoken Presentational Communication: Cultural Comparison

Question:

Record a short presentation in Spanish comparing the cultural significance of a holiday celebrated in a Spanish-speaking country with a similar holiday celebrated in your home country. Be sure to address the following points:

1. Name of the holiday
2. Key traditions and customs
3. The cultural or historical significance of the holiday
4. How the holiday is celebrated today compared to the past

Response Guidelines:

• Prepare your answer in advance and present your comparison clearly.
• Speak in complete sentences, and aim to use accurate grammar and pronunciation.
• Provide specific details to support your comparison, and address the cultural relevance of each holiday.

Grading Rubric:

• Level 5 (Excellent):
  The response is clear, organized, and informative. It demonstrates a strong understanding of the cultural elements involved, with accurate grammar and pronunciation.
  Score: 5 points
• Level 4 (Good):
  The response is clear but may lack some detail or depth. Grammar and pronunciation are generally accurate, with minor errors.
  Score: 4 points
• Level 3 (Satisfactory):
  The response addresses the question but may be somewhat disorganized or lacking in specific details. Noticeable grammar or pronunciation errors may be present.
  Score: 3 points
• Level 2 (Limited):
  The response is unclear or lacks significant details. There are frequent grammar or pronunciation errors that impede understanding.
  Score: 2 points
• Level 1 (Weak):
  The response is difficult to understand, with major errors in grammar or pronunciation.
  Score: 1 point