12.5–12.5% of the AP exam. Key topics: Presentational writing mode: composing a structured comparative essay for an unseen audience, Task structure: one essay of approximately 300–400 Japanese characters in 20 minutes, Required essay structure: thesis → supporting evidence from Japanese culture → comparison to another culture → conclusion, Scoring dimensions: task completion, comprehensibility, vocabulary and language use, organization, register (formal), Scoring scale: 0–6 holistic rubric by trained AP readers, IME input: typed in Japanese using Google Japanese IME, Key comparative connectors: 一方 (on the other hand), それに対して (in contrast), 比べると (compared to), 共通点は (a commonality is), 相違点は (a difference is), Cultural evidence requirements: specific named practices, products, or perspectives — not generalizations.
Study guide content for this unit is being prepared. Check back soon for complete lesson notes, formula sheets, and worked examples.