AP European History
Course Description
The Advanced Placement European History course is the equivalent of a freshman college survey course in European History. Students who take this course will prepare for the AP European History Exam given on Friday, May 12th in the afternoon test slot. Students who pass the AP European History exam (3 or better out of 5 possible points) may earn college credits.
The course will provide a basic description of the development of Western Civilization based upon events and movements in Europe from 1450 – present. The goals of the course according to and abiding the course requirements through the AP College Board are as follows: a) develop an understanding of the principal themes in modern European History, b) develop an ability to analyze historical evidence through Primary Sources, c) and develop an ability to analyze and express historical understanding in writing. The study of European History since 1450 introduces students to cultural, economic, political and social developments that played a fundamental role in shaping the world in which they live.
Students will be required to put forth the effort necessary to act as historians as reading, research and writing are essential parts of this course. Students will also develop: a) the ability to analyze historical evidence to determine reliability and relevance in history; b) identify POV (point of view) and the nature of bias in written historical documents; c) and the knowledge to recognize the necessity of objectivity and substantiation in historical documents. The basic methods used in the study of history include the ability to formulate generalizations, interpret and use data and to analyze evidence from comparative writings or sources throughout history. This is done primarily through reading, research, lecture, presentation and discussion using historical thinking skills.