Choosing Between APUSH and AP World: When Should You Take Each?
The decision to take Advanced Placement United States History (APUSH) versus Advanced Placement World History (AP World) largely depends on your high school curriculum and personal circumstances. While many schools offer these courses in a specific order, it's important to understand that taking one before the other isn't a hard and fast rule. Let's explore the pros and cons of each approach to help you make an informed decision.
APUSH and AP World: Overview
One common pattern seen in many American high schools is taking APUSH in the junior year and AP World in the sophomore year. However, it can vary from school to school. Some schools might offer APUSH in the junior year, while others might offer AP World in the sophomore year. The key is to find a balance that suits your learning style and future academic goals.
Considerations for Taking APUSH First
Some suggest prioritizing difficult subjects early in your high school career. This is often recommended if you have a good grasp of American history and want to focus on a more rigorous course to challenge yourself. Taking APUSH in your freshman year, when you have fewer other commitments, can be a good strategy. Given that many courses in the earlier years are introductory, you can use APUSH as a way to explore topics in more depth.
Advantages of Taking AP World First
Others argue that starting with AP World can provide a broader perspective that helps enrich your understanding of APUSH. By learning about global history, you can better appreciate the context in which American history unfolded, especially from 1492 onwards. This foundation can make studying APUSH later on more meaningful and profound.
Compatibility of Course Order
It's important to note that the order in which you take these courses doesn’t necessarily affect your overall academic performance. Many schools recommend a specific sequence, but you can adjust based on your learning preferences. For instance, if you know a lot about American history already, taking AP World first can be beneficial. Conversely, if you have strong interest or knowledge in world history, starting with APUSH might be more advantageous.
General Recommendation
The general recommendation is to take AP World first and then APUSH. Starting with world history first can provide a broader context that makes your study of American history more coherent. Understanding how global events have shaped the United States over the centuries can enhance your comprehension of key historical events and trends. Furthermore, most global historical contexts lead up to and intertwine with the history of the United States, making AP World a foundation for APUSH.
Personal Experience and Flexibility
Personal experience shows that there can be flexibility in the course sequence. For instance, in my high school days, we had World History in our sophomore year and US History in our junior year. However, many schools don't limit the age range for taking these courses, indicating that students can choose based on their readiness and interest.
Conclusion
In summary, while there's no set rule for taking APUSH before AP World or vice versa, the most effective approach often involves taking AP World first to build a solid foundation in global history, followed by APUSH to deepen your understanding of American history. This sequence not only enhances your knowledge but also aligns with the chronological development of history itself. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal circumstances, academic goals, and the specific requirements of your high school.
Regardless of the sequence you choose, it's important to approach these courses with a willingness to learn and explore. The world of history is vast, and regardless of which path you choose, the knowledge gained will enrich your academic journey and beyond.
Key Points to Remember:
APUSH and AP World can be taken in either order as long as you have the necessary background knowledge. Taking AP World first can provide a broader context for understanding American history. The decision should be based on your personal circumstances, interests, and future academic goals. Balance and flexibility are key considerations in making this decision.