If you’re planning to take AP World History, you might be wondering how many units you’ll need to complete the course successfully. The answer to this question can vary depending on your school’s curriculum and your own academic goals.
What is AP World History?
AP World History is a college-level course that covers the history of the world from prehistoric times to the present day. This course challenges students to think critically about historical events and trends, analyze primary and secondary sources, and develop their writing skills through essays and other assignments.
How many units do you need for AP World History?
The number of units required for AP World History can vary depending on your school’s curriculum. However, most schools require students to complete at least five units of study in order to receive credit for the course.
- Unit 1: Technological and Environmental Transformations (c. 8000 BCE – c. 600 BCE)
- Unit 2: Organization and Reorganization of Human Societies (c. 600 BCE – c. 600 CE)
- Unit 3: Regional and Transregional Interactions (c. 600 CE – c. 1450 CE)
- Unit 4: Global Interactions (c. 1450 CE – c. 1750 CE)
- Unit 5: Industrialization and Global Integration (c.1750 CE – c.1900 CE)
The Exam
The AP World History exam consists of two sections: a multiple-choice section and a free-response section. The multiple-choice section contains 55 questions that must be answered in a time limit of one hour and forty minutes.
The free-response section consists of three essays:
- Document-Based Question (DBQ): Students are given a set of primary and secondary sources and must use them to answer a historical question.
- Continuity and Change-Over-Time (CCOT) Essay: Students are given a historical time period and must analyze the changes and continuities that occurred during that time period.
- Comparative Essay: Students are given two or more historical societies to compare and contrast based on a specific prompt.
Preparing for the Exam
In order to succeed on the AP World History exam, it’s important to start preparing early. Some tips for success include:
- Reading: Read the textbook and other assigned readings thoroughly to gain a deep understanding of the material.
- Note-taking: Take notes on key concepts, events, and individuals in order to solidify your understanding of the material.
- Past Exams: Practice past exams in order to get familiar with the format and types of questions that will be asked on the actual exam.
- Evidence-based writing: Practice writing essays that require you to use primary and secondary sources in order to support your arguments.
In conclusion, AP World History is an exciting course that allows students to explore the history of our world in depth. To receive credit for this course, most schools require students to complete at least five units of study. With hard work and preparation, anyone can succeed on the AP World History exam.