When it comes to advanced placement (AP) courses, students often wonder which one is harder – AP European History or AP World History. Both courses are challenging and require a lot of work and dedication, but there are some key differences between the two that may make one seem more difficult than the other.
Course Content
The content covered in both courses is vast and complex. However, AP European History focuses primarily on the history of Europe from 1450 to the present day. This includes topics such as the Renaissance, Reformation, Enlightenment, World War I and II, Cold War, and European integration.
On the other hand, AP World History covers world history from prehistory to present times. The course is divided into six periods that cover topics such as early civilizations, classical empires, medieval Europe, colonialism and imperialism, world wars and global conflicts.
It’s important to note that while AP European History may seem more focused than AP World History, it can be just as challenging due to the depth of knowledge required for each topic.
Exam Format
The format of both exams is similar – they consist of multiple-choice questions and essays. However, there are some key differences between the two exams.
The AP European History exam has 55 multiple-choice questions and three essays (one document-based question (DBQ), one long essay question (LEQ), and one short answer question). The exam is three hours long.
The AP World History exam has 55 multiple-choice questions and four essays (one DBQ, one LEQ, two short answer questions). The exam is three hours and 15 minutes long.
So while the number of multiple-choice questions is the same for both exams, AP World History has an extra essay question to complete within a shorter amount of time. This can make it more challenging for some students who struggle with time management.
Preparation
Both AP European History and AP World History require a lot of preparation. Students need to have a strong understanding of the historical events, themes, and concepts covered in the course.
In terms of preparation, there are many resources available for both courses. Students can use textbooks, review guides, and online resources to help them understand the material.
It’s important for students to start preparing early for both exams and to stay organized throughout the year.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both AP European History and AP World History are challenging courses that require a lot of work and dedication. While they have some similarities in terms of exam format and preparation, there are also differences in course content that may make one seem more difficult than the other.
Ultimately, which course is harder will depend on the individual student’s strengths and weaknesses. It’s important for students to choose the course that they are most interested in and passionate about, as this will help them stay motivated throughout the year.