AP European History: Key Units and Learning Strategies

AP European History: An Overview

AP European History is an introductory college-level course that aims to cultivate students' understanding of European history through analyzing historical sources and various developments in different aspects of European society. The course covers a wide range of topics, including economic and commercial developments, cultural and intellectual developments, states and other institutions of power, social organization and development, national and European identity, and technological and scientific innovation.

The AP European History exam consists of two main question types: the Document-Based Question (DBQ) and the Long Essay Question (LEQ). The exam format, course framework, and skills assessed on the exam remain unchanged, with updated rubrics for the DBQ and LEQ. Students develop an argument supported by an analysis of historical evidence, and the question choices focus on the same skills and reasoning processes, such as comparison, causation, or continuity and change.

Key Units and Topics

Some key units and topics covered in AP European History include:

1. Crisis of the Late Middle Ages: This unit introduces Europe during the late Middle Ages, setting the stage for the Renaissance and the Age of Exploration.

2. Italian Renaissance: Students explore the cultural and artistic achievements of the Italian Renaissance, including the works of renowned artists and thinkers like Pico della Mirandola and Lorenzo Valla.

3. Northern Renaissance: This unit focuses on the cultural and artistic developments in Northern Europe during the Renaissance, including the works of Erasmus and Henry VIII.

4. Age of Exploration and Discovery: Students learn about the European exploration and discovery of new lands during the Age of Exploration, including the voyages of Columbus and the impact of these discoveries on European society.

5. The Napoleonic Era: This unit covers the rise and fall of Napoleon's empire, the Napoleonic Code, and the Congress of Vienna, which imposed a conservative balance of power across Europe.

Teaching and Learning Strategies

To effectively teach AP European History, educators can utilize various resources and strategies, such as:

• Documents, PowerPoints, and Review Videos: These resources can be found on websites like Tom Richey's, which offers a comprehensive collection of documents, PowerPoint presentations, and review videos for AP European History teachers and students.

• Practice Tests: Regular practice tests can help students improve their skills and prepare for the AP exam. Websites like Marathon Learning offer free AP European History practice tests to help students practice and improve their skills.

• Incorporating Primary Sources: Teachers can use primary sources, such as Thomas More's "Utopia," to provide students with a deeper understanding of the historical context and perspectives of the time.

By following these strategies and covering the key topics and units, educators can help students develop a strong foundation in AP European History and prepare them for the exam.