It is about this time of the year that I start receiving concerned messages for both parents and students. The first nine weeks have passed, and progress reports have come home.
Tell me if any of the following comments ring bells for you:
"My student is a straight A student...but..."
"My student is completely lost..."
"My teacher doesn't make any sense..." (uhhh)
"There is always stuff on the tests and quizzes that isn't in the lectures..."
After years of tutoring AP histories (Human Geo, World, US History, European History, and US Gov), I can tell you that the voiced concerns for students struggling with AP "history" are common...and fixable.
How is AP different from other classes?
AP (Advanced Placement) = College Level Course Work
- The content and reasoning expectations are on par with a college level course.
- Studying expectations are the same as a college level course.
- The teacher will assign reading to complement or cover what is or is not covered in the lecture.
- Writing expectations are high and force students to form conclusions supported by evidence.
- The AP exam in May will cover everything from the entire year.
- Depending on the university of choice, classes that score a 4 or more may be applied to general subject requirements.
How to study for AP history classes.
Read
- Always read the textbook and any other materials your teacher assigns.
- It is best to read these materials BEFORE the material will be covered in class.
- Take notes really good notes AS you read.
- There WILL be material on the exam that your teacher may not cover in lectures.
- Add material from your reading to your class notes to create solid study materials.
- Write down any questions that come to mind as you read so you can identify what you need help with or clarification of.
Write
- Learn how to take really good lecture notes.
- Try to make time to re-copy your class notes with the intent of both reviewing and filling in missing information.
- Writing a brief summary of the day’s lecture in your own words will help you understand the content.
Review
- Read your class notes at the end of every week - this includes the previous weeks’ and months’ content.
- Use the free version of Quizlet to create both flash cards and map tests for quick review or review on the go. There are ready made decks on the platform.
- I highly recommend using AMSCO AP books, 5 Steps to a 5 AP Elite Student Editions, and Princeton Review AP Premium Prep to supplement classroom resources for review.
Watch
- Use your College Board AP classroom daily videos.
- I also recommend Heimler’s History and Mr. Sinn on Youtube for REVIEW. These DO NOT replace the reading you need to do.
Lastly, DO NOT wait to ask for help if you need help. AP history classes aren't simply teaching content like "traditional" history classes. You are learning new ways to read, analyze, think, and write on top of deeper content dives! You will take these skill sets with you into life. They are worth the work.
