AP US History
AP US History, or APUSH, is one of two potential history courses that eleventh are required to take.
| Department | Social Studies |
|---|---|
| Length | Year |
| Credit type | Weighted |
| Teacher(s) | Mr. Johnson, Mrs. Howard |
Course Catalog Description
This course provides an in-depth survey of US History, including intellectual, political, cultural, social, and diplomatic history. The class format focuses on writing and large and small group discussions, as well as lectures and primary source analysis. It also includes independent research, debates, and guest speakers. In addition to the text, each student will read a variety of books on historical topics and issues. Students are encouraged to take the AP test in May for college credit. Summer reading is expected.
• Homework Expectation: Approximately 5 hours per week (with possibly more in the 3 weeks before the AP test)
Structure
This class is largely structured around its textbook, which goes through American history in chronological order starting from the arrival of Europeans on the continent. Students are responsible for reading the textbook and encouraged at the beginning of the year to take handwritten notes, though this is ignored by many. Additionally, teachers give more in-depth lectures on the content and students complete historical analysis activities in a workbook. There are also projects.
Should I sign up for this class?
According to the APUSH welcome letter,
Extrinsic motivation (you want your transcript to look good, you have always taken honors courses, your parents want you to take AP, etc) will not sustain you through this year of hard work. Intrinsic motivation (you really love history, have a passion for learning new things, you love reading and thinking analytically, and have the drive and dedication to be a successful student) is a powerful factor of success for students in APUSH
This course has started to use SBG grading as well, which has had mixed effects on the difficulty of the course. Multiple-choice tests have become easier, as now only an 85% is required to be proficient, but projects have now gotten harder due to the stricter standards. However, Mr. Johnson still grades easier than Mrs. Howard in the new grading system. Conversely, SBG also allows all assignments to be revised in APUSH, making it easier for students to improve their grades. Thus, it is highly recommended that you review APUSH's grading system before signing up for the class.