This is a college-level class that gives the student the opportunity to satisfy both the high school graduation requirement in eleventh grade social studies and gain possible college credit.  This last depends upon the student's performance on the AP test, usually given in the middle of May, and the requirements of each individual university. 

     The AP test takes three hours.  The first hour consists of 80 multiple choice questions.  These can be very difficult.  The multiple choice portion of the AP test is worth one-half of the test grade.  Students are then given a ten minute break.  After the break, students will be give one hour to write a document-based essay question.  This is worth one quarter of the test grade.  During the final hour of the test, students will answer two other essay questions.  This time, though, there are limited choices.  There are two groups of two essays.  Students must choose to answer one essay question from each group.  They have one hour to write the final two essays and the topics for all of the essays are always a surprise.  The student will receive his test score in mid-July.

     As a rule, students who elect to take AP U.S. History are independent workers who are adept at managing and organizing their time. Students are required to do substantial independent reading and research.  Successful students must process information rapidly, think critically, and communicate clearly.  The grade that the student receives will depend upon successful completion of essays and objective tests given in the classroom.  The student's grade has no connection to the AP test.

     The material that my students are responsible for is tremendous.  They must become familiar with the cultural, social, political, and economic history of the United States from 1607 to 2002.  We cover the material in class chronologically through lecture, and thematically, through discussion and preparation for class essays.  All students are given the opportunity to improve their grades through two "replacement assignments" each quarter.  Since these assignments are optional and done outside of class, their due dates are non-negotiable. 

     Students are provided with a syllabus each quarter and an outline for each unit.  As we approach the AP test date, review materials will be available and the schedule for night review sessions will be published.  Please feel free to contact me with your concerns.  I look forward to a rewarding and productive year with your sons and daughters.