Considering diving into the world of AP European History? Maybe you’ve heard whispers in the hallway about the AP Euro class, perhaps punctuated by the joyous sighs of students escaping for a brief mask break. It’s true, AP European History can be intense, a deep dive into centuries of European development from the Renaissance to the aftermath of World War II. The sheer scope of the subject matter, encompassing numerous countries, their intricate relationships, and pivotal historical moments, can feel daunting. You might be wondering, “Is AP European History worth it?” Let’s break down an honest review to help you decide.
Decoding the AP Euro Workload: What to Expect
AP classes are known for their rigorous academic demands, and AP European History is no exception. A significant portion of the learning happens outside the classroom, primarily through textbook readings. The course covers a vast timeline and a wealth of information, demanding consistent engagement with the material. Understanding the textbook is crucial, as class time is often spent expanding upon key concepts and practicing essential AP exam skills.
Speaking of skills, AP Euro focuses on honing specific abilities tested on the AP exam. You’ll become well-acquainted with Short Answer Questions (SAQs), Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), Long Essay Questions (LEQs), and Document Based Questions (DBQs). Dedicated class time, often on Wednesdays, is allocated to practicing these critical thinking skills. Expect regular homework assignments designed to reinforce these skills, ranging from textbook readings to practicing different question types. Your teacher might assign DBQs or LEQs to sharpen your essay writing, and MCQs to familiarize you with the exam’s question style.
For many, AP Euro stands out as a workload-heavy class, requiring considerable time commitment outside of scheduled class hours to stay on top of the material and ensure effective learning.
Engaging Class Dynamics: More Than Just Dates and Facts
Despite the demanding workload, AP European History offers a dynamic and engaging classroom environment. The subject matter itself is inherently fascinating, exploring pivotal moments and influential figures that have shaped the world we live in today. Passionate teachers are key to bringing this history to life. They can effectively contextualize events, weave compelling narratives, and draw connections that make the material relatable and memorable. Personal anecdotes and stories, like the example of Italian and Irish Catholic animosity mentioned in the original article, can surprisingly illuminate complex historical dynamics and aid in information retention.
Beyond the teacher’s passion, the shared experience of tackling a challenging AP course fosters a unique sense of camaraderie among students. The late-night study sessions before tests, the collaborative quizzing, and even the moments of shared overwhelm create a bond. The humorous depiction of students in the original article – some quizzing, some dozing, others in existential contemplation – captures the relatable reality of AP student life and the communal learning that often emerges.
Overall: Is AP European History Rewarding?
While undeniably challenging, AP European History is consistently described as a rewarding and enriching experience. Students often highlight the development of crucial academic skills, like note-taking and information processing, as valuable takeaways. As student Elyza Tuan ‘23 notes, “It shouldn’t matter if you’re good at it when you decide to take it, because you will develop the skills [for] the class. Everyone is capable of taking AP Euro.” The course pushes students beyond their perceived learning limits, as Lucy Bachiochi ‘23 mentioned, fostering intellectual growth and a deeper understanding of historical processes. Julie Baker ‘23 even considers it a favorite class, recommending it highly.
The value of AP European History extends beyond exam scores and college credit. Mrs. Forsgard, the AP European History teacher quoted in the original article, emphasizes the course’s ability to cultivate critical thinking and analytical skills applicable to understanding contemporary issues. She states that AP Euro is for students “if you are curious about human behavior,” as it helps you “understand the questions to ask in order to understand the economy, politics, and issues of today.”
Ultimately, the decision to take AP European History is a personal one. It’s crucial to consider your interests and academic goals. While AP classes can be beneficial, they are not mandatory for college admission or a measure of intelligence. If history genuinely interests you, and you’re prepared for a challenging but stimulating academic journey, AP European History could be an incredibly worthwhile and enriching experience.
