Course Title: AP Human Geography (course for grades 10-12)

Course Description:

The purpose of AP Human Geography is to introduce students to the systematic study of patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth’s surface. Students employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine human social organization and its environmental consequences. They also learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their science and practice. Units of study focus on concepts such as global population growth patterns, language and religion patterns, urban and rural development patterns, and the human effects of globalization and industrialization.

Textbooks:

de Blij and Murphy, Human Geography: Culture, Society, and Space (primary text)

Supplemental textbook: Annual Editions--Geography

Grading:

Student achievement is assessed using various methods including short-answer chapter quizzes, multiple-choice and short essay-based unit tests, and interesting individual and group projects, such as field-studies involving urban landscapes, investigations into census patterns of neighborhood development, and briefings on global sites and cultures. There is a primary emphasis on preparing students for the AP exam in May.

Homework:

Extensive independent study is a part of any AP course. AP Human Geography students are highly motivated to succeed and find learning about the world and its people interesting. Homework typically involves balancing reading assignments with long-term projects. Students are required to read, analyze, and comprehend a college-level textbook at an accelerated pace. Typically, homework ranges from 45 minutes to 1 hour per night.

Comments:

This course has been described by former students as deeply impacting their understanding of the patterns of human development and society. Former students have shared that this course has invaluably enriched their knowledge of world events and empowered them with the ability to participate in discussions and debates surrounding global issues. Essentially, Human Geography is a course that develops in students a new way of finding global patterns, while it also builds in them an understanding of the places and peoples making up the world. Most simply, students have said Human Geography is a challenging, fascinating course. This course is highly recommended for students interested in pursuing studies in international relations, global politics, civil engineering and cultural studies.

AP Human Geography is taught by Christian Sawyer. christian.sawyer@mnps.org