If you are a student or someone interested in world history, you might have wondered when the AP World History: Modern course started. In this article, we will explore the history of this course and how it has evolved over the years.
What is AP World History: Modern?
AP World History: Modern is a college-level course offered by the College Board for high school students. The course covers world history from 1200 CE to the present day, with a focus on global events and interactions. Students who take this course gain an understanding of different cultures, societies, and historical events that have shaped our modern world.
The History of AP World History: Modern
The AP World History program started in 2002 with the aim of providing high school students with a comprehensive understanding of world history. The first exam covered world history from prehistory to 2002 CE. However, by 2006, it became clear that the scope of the course was too broad and needed to be restructured.
In 2010, College Board announced major changes to AP World History program by splitting it into two courses – AP World History: Ancient and AP World History: Modern. This change allowed students to delve deeper into each period in history and gain a better understanding of specific events and cultures.
The New Curriculum
The new curriculum for AP World History: Modern was implemented in 2019-2020 academic year. It covers world history from 1200 CE to present day, divided into six different periods. Each period has its own themes and key concepts that students need to understand.
Students are expected to analyze primary sources, develop historical arguments, and write essays based on historical evidence. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, document-based questions (DBQs), and long essay questions.
Criticisms and Controversies
The changes to AP World History program were met with criticism and controversy. Some argued that the new curriculum was too Eurocentric and neglected other regions of the world. Others felt that it focused too heavily on historical processes and ignored the experiences of individuals.
In response to these criticisms, College Board made additional changes to the course, including adding more non-European content to the curriculum.
Conclusion
AP World History: Modern is an important course that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of world history. The course has evolved over the years to become more focused and relevant.
While there have been criticisms and controversies, College Board continues to make changes to improve the course. Students who take this course gain valuable knowledge and skills that will prepare them for college-level work in history or other disciplines.
- Key takeaways:
- AP World History started in 2002.
- In 2010, it was divided into two courses – AP World History: Ancient and AP World History: Modern.
- The new curriculum for AP World History: Modern was implemented in 2019-2020 academic year.
- Students analyze primary sources, develop historical arguments, and write essays based on historical evidence.
- The exam consists of multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, document-based questions (DBQs), and long essay questions.
- Critics argue that the new curriculum is too Eurocentric, but College Board has made changes to address these concerns.
Sources:
1. https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/courses/ap-world-history-modern/course
2. https://www.insidehighered.com/news/2018/05/24/college-board-revises-ap-history-courses-address-concerns-about-exclusion