Course description:

This course will cover both the content and pedagogy necessary for teaching the AP U.S. History course, in addition participants will receive an overview of the AP Program.  Presentations and discussions of teaching strategies will be divided equally between strategies for improving student success on the AP exam and the content necessary to create a successful course. Teaching strategies will focus on the development of critical thinking skills, document analysis, and writing skills. Historical content will focus on American social, political, economic, and intellectual thought and will explore the ever-changing interpretations of U.S. History.  Participants will also explore classroom resources, including online and multimedia resources. Participants are encouraged to bring successful lessons they have created and share these with the entire group.

What participants should bring:

Participants should bring their textbook and their districts curriculum timeline, calendar, and any other piece of information that they would like to discuss. Also, participants are encouraged to bring best practice lessons and strategies they have used in the past, we will be sharing ideas as the week progresses.

Lead Consultant biographical information:

John P. Irish teaches AP U.S. History, AP European History, and Humanities at Seven Lakes High School in Katy, Texas. He has served on the KISD Social Studies AP / Pre-AP Vertical Team, written the KISD curriculum for both the AP U.S. and AP European History classes, and serves as a Master Teacher and Presenter for KISD. He is a Nationally Certified Consultant in both AP U.S. and AP European History for the Southwest Region of the College Board and serves as a Reader for the AP U.S. History Exam. He holds a B.A. in political science and philosophy from Southern Methodist University, a M.A. in philosophy from the University of Arkansas, and post graduate work in history and education. His recent publications include the Instructor Resource Guide and A Test Bank for the American Pageant (13/e), a curriculum unit on Edward Bellamy’s novel Looking Backward, and AP U.S. History Workbooks – a three volume publication by the Center for Learning, publication forthcoming.

Updated 1/4/08