AP United States History

This course is designed to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement United States History exam following the curriculum established by the College Board. The course focuses on the use of prominent works in historiography, the analysis of primary source documents, document based questions [DBQs], independent reading, frequent quizzes and tests, an analysis of historically significant works of fiction, and a complete survey of American historical themes from colonization through the present. It is assumed that students have a working chronological knowledge of American history. The focus of the course is to connect that knowledge within the themes presented during the year. All students must complete a research paper that is due after the completion of the Advanced Placement exam. Essential skills involve working with multiple causation; specificity of supportive evidence; analysis of causes and effects; the application of abstract concepts across units of study and the use of multiple perspectives. Students must be highly motivated, independent learners who demonstrate a commitment to excellence by a willingness to struggle through and master challenging content material to meet strict and fast paced deadlines. Students must possess strong critical reading, writing and analytical skills with the drive to meet the responsibility and demands of the college level work presented in this course. A summer reading and writing assignment is mandatory.

Please note: Students are required to earn a 1/2 credit in Civics to meet Graduation Standards in accordance with Connecticut state law.

Students may earn six (6) college credits for (HIS 120: Early American 1607-1877/HIS 121: Recent American 1877-present ) through Eastern Connecticut State University if a “C” or better is earned in the course. Students must register for this opportunity by the deadline and are responsible for all fees. Upon successful completion of the course, students can request a transcript, and credits may be transferable to other institutions.