Choosing between AP Euro and APUSH: Guidelines and Considerations

When faced with the decision of whether to take AP Euro or APUSH (Advanced Placement United States History), it's important to consider your prior coursework and goals. This article will guide you through the decision-making process, offering insights and recommendations based on various factors.

Recommendations Based on Prior Knowledge

Deciding between AP Euro and APUSH depends on the other AP History classes you have taken. Here are some recommendations:

If you have not taken US History: It is recommended to start with APUSH, as it provides a solid foundation in U.S. History and can better prepare you for more advanced concepts in AP Euro. If you have taken US History but not European History: AP Euro is suggested as it complements the knowledge gained from APUSH, offering a broader perspective on world history. If you have taken both U.S. and European History: AP U.S. Government and Politics may be a better option, as it delves deeper into the political and governmental systems of the United States.

General Advice and Factors to Consider

The AP exam rubric for both courses is similar, particularly in the Free Response Questions (FRQ) section. Understanding the context from your first AP history course will make your experience with the second course much smoother. Note: Taking AP Euro before APUSH might be challenging, given the more extensive prerequisite knowledge in world history that Euro requires.

Many students recommend taking APUSH during their sophomore year and then moving on to AP Euro during their junior year. This staggered approach allows for a deeper understanding of the subject matter and can be less overwhelming than taking both courses simultaneously.

Commonalities Among AP History Courses

Regardless of which course you choose, several commonalities make AP History courses demanding:

Lots of Material: Both AP courses require extensive reading and studying to be fully prepared for the exams. Vip Intensive Reading and Writing: Students must effectively analyze historical texts within strict time constraints, which can be challenging. Memoization: Mastering terminology and concepts is crucial for success in these exams.

Additionally, success in these courses demands the ability to recognize and understand trends and cause-and-effect relationships within historical contexts.

Practical Tips for Preparing

Making the decision to take both exams can be beneficial, as the AP Euro exam can serve as a preparatory test for the style of AP exams. While no two exams are identical, the social science AP exams often share similar formats. This overlap in style can be advantageous for students preparing for both courses.

Ultimately, the decision to take one course before the other is relatively flexible. As long as you are prepared to handle the intensity and demands of the subject matter, the order in which you take the courses can be determined by your personal schedule and readiness.

By considering your prior coursework and goals, you can make an informed decision that best suits your academic journey. Whether you choose AP Euro or APUSH, both courses offer valuable perspectives on historical events and trends that can enrich your education.