Hi all! I want to get a head start for AP World History over the summer. Any tips on what to focus on, resources to use, or general advice on how to prepare? Thanks in advance for any suggestions you can give!
Hello! It's great that you're eager to prepare for AP World History over the summer. Here are some tips and resources to help you get started:
1. Familiarize yourself with the course: Start by getting to know the structure and content of the AP World History course. Visit the College Board's AP World History: Modern course page to understand the course framework, six themes, and historical thinking skills that you'll be learning throughout the year.
2. Purchase or find a prep book: A comprehensive AP World History prep book can be a great starting point. These books often cover essential content, strategies, and practice questions. Some popular choices are Barron's, The Princeton Review, and AMSCO. Choose one based on your learning preferences and the type of guidance given.
3. Review content: Dedicate some time each day to exploring different periods and regions. You could create a study schedule that includes reviewing key concepts, events, and historical developments. Focus on understanding the broader narratives and themes that connect different events, rather than memorizing loads of specific information.
4. Practice historical thinking skills: AP World History will require you to analyze events from multiple perspectives, assess causation and continuity, and compare historical developments. When reviewing content, make an effort to constantly apply these skills and relate new information to the broader themes.
5. Watch video resources: Some students find watching videos to be more engaging than reading textbooks. YouTube channels like Crash Course World History, Heimler's History, and Khan Academy can provide you with succinct and informative explanations of historical events and concepts.
6. Strengthen your writing: Developing solid essay-writing skills is essential for AP World History. Familiarize yourself with the different types of essays you'll be required to write, such as Document-Based Questions (DBQ), Long Essay Questions (LEQ), and Short Answer Questions (SAQ). Practice time management, outlining, and writing under timed conditions.
7. Join online communities: Consider joining online forums, such as the AP World History subreddit, where other students and teachers discuss the course content, ask questions, and share resources. Engaging with others can help you deepen your understanding and strengthen your problem-solving skills.
8. Monitor your progress: Periodically assess your progress by taking practice tests or quizzes to determine your strengths and weaknesses for each unit or historical thinking skill. This will help you adjust your study plan accordingly and review specific areas as needed.
By following these tips and using the suggested resources, you can build a strong foundation in AP World History before the academic year begins. Good luck!
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