AP African American Studies Course and Exam Description
Overview
The College Board’s AP African American Studies course is launching in Fall 2024.
The course includes a framework, student projects, and exam samples.
The course aims to academically challenge students and respect teacher expertise.
Core Principles
Clarity and Transparency: Clear expectations for teachers and students.
Encounter with Evidence: Students develop as independent thinkers using evidence and the scientific method.
Opposition to Censorship: Intellectual freedom is protected; topics banned by schools lead to the course losing its AP designation.
Opposition to Indoctrination: Encourages analyzing different perspectives without forcing specific viewpoints.
Respect for Histories and Cultures: Grounded in primary sources to evaluate different experiences.
Respect for Diversity: Diverse perspectives and respectful debate are encouraged.
AP as a Choice: Informed choice for parents and students regarding enrollment.
Course Content
Organized into thematic units exploring the African diaspora, identity, art, resistance, and resilience.
Major historical events and movements, cultural contributions, and debates are covered.
Course Structure
Units include:
Unit 1: Origins of the African Diaspora
Unit 2: Freedom, Enslavement, and Resistance
Unit 3: The Practice of Freedom
Unit 4: Movements and Debates
Each unit involves studying key topics through historical documents, literature, and art.
Skills Development
Emphasis on analytical skills, including source analysis and argumentation.
Students are taught to evaluate evidence, understand context, and make supported arguments.
Exam and Project
Sample questions and guidelines for student projects are provided.
The exam assesses knowledge and skills gained throughout the course.
Resources and Supports
AP Classroom provides online tools and resources for teachers and students.
Primary sources and unit guides are available to assist in curriculum planning.
Special Thanks and Contributions
Acknowledgments to educators and institutions contributing to the course development.
Involvement of organizations like the Smithsonian Institution in providing resources.
Important Figures and Organizations
The course was developed with input from university faculty, teachers, and organizations focused on African American history and culture.
Conclusion
AP African American Studies is designed to be an introductory college-level course with interdisciplinary content, fostering critical thinking, historical analysis, and an understanding of African American experiences.