Amsco World History AP: A Comprehensive Guide to the College Board Curriculum

Table of Contents

Understanding the Course

The Amsco World History AP course is offered by the College Board and is designed for high school students who wish to study world history in a rigorous and academic manner. The course covers global events and developments from the earliest civilizations to the present day, focusing on historical themes, perspectives, and connections.

Course Content

The course is divided into nine units, each focusing on a specific time period or region:

Unit 1: Pre-Columbian Civilizations and Mesoamerica (to 1500)
Unit 2: The Classical World: Greece and Rome (500 BCE – 400 CE)
Unit 3: The Middle Ages (250 – 1500)
Unit 4: Early Modern Europe (1400 – 1750)
Unit 5: The Enlightenment and Revolutions (1500 – 1800)
Unit 6: Industrialization and Imperialism (1750 – 1914)
Unit 7: The 20th Century: From the Great War to the Cold War (1914 – 1991)
Unit 8: The Post-Cold War Era (1991 – Present)
Unit 9: Themes in World History (Throughout the Course)

Exam Format

The AP World History exam consists of two sections:

Section 1: Multiple Choice (55 minutes): 55 multiple-choice questions cover topics from all nine units.
Section 2: Free Response (90 minutes): Three essay questions, one from each of the following categories:
- Document-Based Question (DBQ)
- Short Answer Question (SAQ)
- Long Essay Question (LEQ)

Test Preparation

Effective test preparation is crucial for success on the AP World History exam. The College Board recommends the following strategies:

Study consistently throughout the year: Allocate time each week to review course material and practice exam questions.
Utilize high-quality resources: Use the Amsco World History AP textbook, practice tests, and online resources to supplement your classroom learning.
Seek support from your teacher: Attend class regularly, ask questions, and seek guidance from your teacher or TA.
Form study groups: Collaborate with classmates to review material, discuss concepts, and quiz each other.
Take practice tests: Take timed practice tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format and timing.

Benefits of Taking the Exam

Taking the AP World History exam offers numerous benefits:

College credit: Many colleges and universities grant college credit for a passing score on the AP World History exam.
Academic preparation: The rigorous nature of the course and exam prepares students for the demands of college-level history coursework.
Critical thinking skills: The course and exam encourage students to develop critical thinking skills, including the ability to analyze historical documents, make connections, and formulate arguments.
Historical perspective: Studying world history provides students with a broader understanding of the world and its interconnectedness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the passing score for the AP World History exam?

The passing score for the AP World History exam varies each year. In recent years, the passing score has ranged from 3-4 out of 5.

2. How many hours should I dedicate to studying for the exam?

The College Board recommends at least 100 hours of study time for the AP World History exam. This includes time spent in class, completing homework assignments, and preparing for practice tests.

3. What are the most important topics to focus on for the exam?

All topics covered in the course are fair game for the exam. However, the following topics tend to be tested more frequently:

Unit 1: Pre-Columbian Civilizations and Mesoamerica
Unit 2: The Classical World: Greece and Rome
Unit 5: The Enlightenment and Revolutions
Unit 6: Industrialization and Imperialism
Unit 7: The 20th Century: From the Great War to the Cold War

4. How can I improve my writing skills for the exam?

Practice writing essays regularly. Seek feedback from your teacher or other experienced writers. Read persuasive and historical writing and analyze their structure and argumentation.

5. What are some common mistakes students make on the exam?

Lack of specific evidence: Students often provide general historical knowledge without citing specific evidence from documents or their own research.
Weak thesis statements: Students sometimes fail to state a clear and concise thesis statement that guides their essay.
Poor organization: Essays often lack a clear structure and flow, making it difficult for readers to follow the argument.
Lack of historical perspective: Students may focus on isolated events without considering their broader historical context.

6. How can I avoid these mistakes?

Read the documents and instructions carefully: Pay attention to the specific requirements of each essay question.
Develop a strong thesis statement: Write a thesis statement that is specific, arguable, and supported by evidence.
Organize your essay clearly: Use clear headings, transitions, and paragraphs to structure your essay.
Provide specific evidence: Cite specific examples and evidence from the provided documents and your own knowledge.
Consider historical perspective: Make connections between specific events and broader historical themes and processes.