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In this article, Be aims to provide a thorough analysis of the value of enrolling in AP Human Geography. By examining various factors such as the benefits of the course, the difficulty level, and the potential impact on college applications, we will determine whether opting for this course is a wise decision.
AP Human geography at gphs
AP Human geography at gphs
By: Be Bretko
By: Be Bretko
AP Human Geography is an advanced placement class that is exclusively available for freshmen. This class focuses on the study of the human population, culture, and their relationship with the environment. It is a popular choice among freshmen, and many students choose to take it every year. However, some students may wonder if it is worth taking this class. Would it provide them with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed academically, or is it just a waste of time?
Hayden Forsythe, a passionate student of AP HUG at Grants Pass High School, strongly advocates for fellow students to enroll in this course. Forsythe believes that taking AP HUG can be an enlightening and life-changing experience, providing students with a deeper understanding of the world around them, and preparing them to be better individuals in the future. Forsythe describes AP HUG as a unique and intellectually stimulating class that challenges students to push beyond their limits. While AP HUG can be challenging and demanding, Forsythe emphasizes that it is an advanced course that requires consistent effort and dedication from students. Completing homework and assignments on time is critical to achieving success in this course. Forsythe describes the course as “incredible.”
For four years, Katherine Mathews has served as an instructor of AP HUG at Grants Pass High School. Her expertise and dedication to teaching helped countless students to achieve academic success and gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Mathews says that one word to describe her class is “growth.” Mathews told The Scroll that the point of AP HUG is “To learn the 'why of where'.” Why do people live where they do and how do they shape that place and each other? To learn the big systems that drive our world together and apart. To figure out what we like and don’t like so that we can, perhaps, change our world for the better.”
Mathews stated that students who are looking for an easy elective to take during their freshman year may not find this particular class suitable for them. The class may have a more rigorous curriculum than what they are looking for. Moreover, Mathews has also pointed out that students who have no interest in global issues or social justice may not find the class appealing. The course material is focused on exploring and understanding global issues and will require students to engage in discussions about social justice. Thus, if a student does not have a keen interest in these topics, then they may not be motivated to take the class. By enrolling in AP classes, students have the opportunity to receive college credit upon completion. This means that students can earn credit toward their college degree before even starting college. The AP program is designed to provide college-level coursework and exams to high school students and is recognized by many colleges and universities across the country. This can not only save them time and money in the long run but also give them a head start on their college education.
AP HUG covers an extensive range of topics, including agriculture, cultural patterns, migration, diffusion, and religion. Through engaging discussions and critical analysis, students explore the complexities of human geography, gaining insight into various aspects of the world's cultures and societies. Students learn about different types of agricultural practices, cultural patterns and their evolution, the reasons and consequences of migration, the spread of cultural practices, and the impact of religion on different societies. AP HUG is a crucial course that equips students with valuable knowledge and skills that are highly relevant in today's world. By taking AP HUG, students can develop a better understanding of the world and its diverse cultures, preparing them for success in their academic and personal lives. If students are uncertain about taking the class, Matthews suggests giving it a try. AP HUG provides an excellent opportunity to experience an AP class without the risk of failing a core class. “The course is specifically designed for freshmen, so it will focus on developing essential skills and techniques. The only students who fail are the ones who don't attend.”
Mathews believes that, by taking AP HUG, students can broaden their perspective beyond Southern Oregon and gain a global outlook. This course covers various significant topics, such as economic systems, political systems, conflicts, demographics, urban and rural land use, patterns, and human development. It is an overview of some major concepts. AP HUG is the only AP class and history class freshmen can take. Mathews said that she thinks that it is terrible, but the State of Oregon only requires three years of Social Studies, so AP HUG is only offered as an elective to freshmen who want more than those three years. Also, colleges are reluctant to award credit to freshmen, so there are not many AP offerings for students so early in their education. Mathews told The Scroll, “However, those colleges have not met the students in my AP HUG class - many of them are brighter and more articulate than university freshmen. That is why the only way to get credit for the class is to pass the AP Exam - the scores don’t lie.”
AP HUG is a challenging course that demands a great deal of effort and dedication from students. However, by taking this course, students can enhance their critical thinking, research, and analytical skills, which will be beneficial in their future academic and professional journeys. Although it requires extra effort and time commitment, the benefits of taking AP HUG are numerous, making it a good choice for those who are eager for the challenge. AP HUG is an excellent course for those who are willing to put in the effort and acquire valuable skills.
Sources:
Sources:
Interview with Katherine Mathews
Interview with Hayden Forsythe
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