From an AP point of view

Haley James

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One a.m. Just finished my AP World History homework. Now typing this article. Send help. Bloodshot eyes, shaking fingers, falling asleep on my book. I am feeling finnnnnne. At this point, I force my body awake, my brain swollen with information overload. Oh shoot! I forgot about the map we talked about forever ago. How is it only the fourth week of school? I cannot count the days that I have been up past midnight at my desk with three cups of coffee and determination running through my veins. I need to finish these Essential Questions, but my body wants to fall back in bed and succumb to the age-old enemy: sleep.

This textbook is the most boring thing I have ever read. My brain begins to wander. Focus! No time for fun and games. Six hours until I have to wake up, but do I really have to wake up? At this point, I should just remain in bed because I will never leave the house after I get the grade back for tomorrow’s reading quiz.

One.

More.

Word.

I can guarantee I am not the only student who feels this way during her first Advanced Placement class. Although I clearly cannot offer any advice or tips quite yet, there are other people who can. Kimberly Pallas, a junior AP World History survivor, offers her suggestions.

Number one: follow the dates that are given for homework assignments especially when it comes to reading the textbook. Understand how vital it is to stay on top of reading; otherwise, it starts to pile, and you will not be able to catch up. Pallas cannot stress the importance of keeping up to date. Doing your AP homework all in one night is not an option. Print out the chapter outline, take notes, and get it all done. It may feel like the worst thing you have ever experienced, but there are benefits from the difficulty.

“The class is worth it because it will help you out in the long run with other classes, such as AP US History,” Pallas said.

As for studying, Pallas advises pulling out old quizzes and reviewing the questions, especially those you missed. Many of the questions used on the reading checks are recycled into the unit test which is why it is necessary to review them. Pallas suggests three days studying in advance, or at least clearing your schedule for the night before the test to focus.

Many rumors have been spread about AP World History, some true and some not. In my very short experience, I have already had one too many wake-up calls. If you decide to take this class, then prepare. It is your choice not to study and skip the homework, but it is not one you want to make. Every grade counts.