Course Structure and Content
The AP U.S. History course is structured around a thematic framework that allows students to explore historical developments through various lenses. The curriculum is divided into nine historical periods, each encompassing significant events, movements, and figures.
Historical Periods
1. Period 1: 1491-1607
- Pre-Columbian societies
- European exploration and colonization
2. Period 2: 1607-1754
- Development of colonial societies
- Interactions between Native Americans and Europeans
3. Period 3: 1754-1800
- The French and Indian War
- American Revolution and the formation of a new nation
4. Period 4: 1800-1848
- Expansion and reform
- The War of 1812 and the Mexican-American War
5. Period 5: 1844-1877
- The Civil War and Reconstruction
- Slavery and its impact on American society
6. Period 6: 1865-1898
- Industrialization and urbanization
- Immigration and social changes
7. Period 7: 1890-1945
- Progressive Era and World Wars
- The Great Depression
8. Period 8: 1945-1980
- Cold War dynamics
- Civil Rights Movement and social upheaval
9. Period 9: 1980-Present
- Contemporary America
- Globalization and technological advancements
Thematic Focus
The AP U.S. History curriculum is built around several key themes that recur throughout the periods. These themes help students connect historical events and ideas across different times and contexts. The major themes include:
- American and National Identity
- Politics and Power
- Work, Exchange, and Technology
- Culture and Society
- Migration and Settlement
- Geography and the Environment
- America in the World
Exam Structure
The AP U.S. History exam consists of two main sections: multiple-choice questions and free-response questions. The exam is designed to assess students' knowledge, analytical skills, and ability to synthesize information.
Section I: Multiple Choice Questions
- Format: 55 questions
- Time: 55 minutes
- Content: Questions are designed to test students' knowledge of key concepts and their ability to analyze historical sources.
Section II: Free Response Questions
- Format: 3 questions (1 document-based question, 2 long essay questions)
- Time: 100 minutes
- Content:
- Document-Based Question (DBQ): Students analyze a set of historical documents to construct an argument.
- Long Essay Questions (LEQ): Students choose one essay question from two options and develop a coherent argument.
Preparation Strategies for Success
To excel in Advanced Placement United States History 2020, students should adopt a strategic approach to studying and exam preparation. Here are some effective strategies:
1. Develop a Study Schedule
- Create a timeline that breaks down the curriculum by periods and themes.
- Allocate specific study sessions for each topic and stick to the schedule.
2. Utilize AP Resources
- Use official College Board resources, such as past exam questions and scoring guidelines.
- Invest in reputable review books that focus on AP U.S. History.
3. Engage in Active Learning
- Participate in group discussions and study sessions with peers to reinforce knowledge.
- Teach the material to someone else to solidify your understanding.
4. Practice Writing Skills
- Regularly practice writing DBQs and LEQs to improve essay structure and argumentation.
- Focus on developing a clear thesis statement and supporting it with evidence.
5. Take Practice Exams
- Simulate exam conditions by taking full-length practice tests.
- Review your answers to identify areas for improvement.
Key Resources for AP U.S. History
Students can benefit significantly from various resources designed to enhance their understanding of the course material. Some recommended resources include:
- Textbooks:
- "The American Pageant" by David M. Kennedy and Lizabeth Cohen
- "America: A Narrative History" by David Emory Shi and Holly A. Mayer
- Online Resources:
- AP Classroom on the College Board website: Offers practice questions and instructional videos.
- Khan Academy: Provides free online resources, including video lectures and practice quizzes.
- Review Books:
- "Cracking the AP U.S. History Exam" by The Princeton Review
- "Barron’s AP U.S. History" by Eugene V. Resnick
Conclusion
Advanced Placement United States History 2020 presents an invaluable opportunity for high school students to engage deeply with the complexities of American history. By understanding the course structure, preparing effectively for the exam, and utilizing key resources, students can not only aim for a high score but also cultivate a lasting appreciation for the historical narratives that have shaped the United States. As students embark on this challenging journey, they will find that the skills they develop—critical thinking, analytical writing, and historical reasoning—will serve them well in both their academic and personal lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main themes covered in the AP United States History 2020 curriculum?
The main themes include American identity, politics and power, work, exchange, and technology, America in the world, geography and the environment, and culture and society.
How did the College Board adapt the AP U.S. History exam in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic?
The College Board offered a modified exam format, including a shorter test with only one document-based question (DBQ) and one long essay question, which could be taken at home.
What significant events in U.S. history are emphasized in the AP U.S. History 2020 exam?
Key events include the American Revolution, Civil War, Reconstruction, Civil Rights Movement, and the Cold War, among others.
What skills are students expected to develop in AP U.S. History classes?
Students are expected to develop skills in historical thinking, including analyzing primary and secondary sources, making historical arguments, and understanding causation and change over time.
What percentage of the AP U.S. History exam score is based on multiple-choice questions?
In the 2020 exam format, multiple-choice questions account for 40% of the total score.
How does the AP U.S. History exam assess students' writing skills?
The exam includes a document-based question (DBQ) and a long essay question, requiring students to construct well-organized arguments supported by historical evidence.
What resources are recommended for preparing for the AP U.S. History exam?
Recommended resources include AP U.S. History textbooks, review books such as Barron's and Princeton Review, online resources, and past exam questions available on the College Board website.
What role does historiography play in the AP U.S. History curriculum?
Historiography is important as it encourages students to understand different interpretations of historical events and the context in which historians write.
What strategies can students use to effectively study for the AP U.S. History exam?
Effective strategies include creating timelines, practicing past exam questions, participating in study groups, and using flashcards for key terms and concepts.
