AP Human Geography Course Information

AP Human Geography

West Ranch High School

Darcy Rojas

AP Human Geography is a year-long course that centers around seven areas.  They are listed below with a short description of each:

General Geography Skills
In this unit we look at topics like absolute and relative location, the purpose of maps and a general overview of all the topics we are going to cover throughout the year.

Population
In this unit, we look at topics such as migration and disease.  We compare populations across the world and discuss reasons for the differences.  We also look at why people migrate and how that affects the world as a whole. In this unit, they interview an immigrant and explore a first-hand story of an immigrant’s journey.

Culture
In this unit, we focus on two main areas of culture:  language and religion.  For language, we trace the roots of how language began and how certain languages are related.  We also explore the importance of language to a person’s culture.  For religion, we explore eight major world religions.  Students learn the basic philosophies of these religions and how they affect the environment around them.  We also look at how differences in religion are at the root of many conflicts across the globe. 

Political
In this unit, we focus on how cultures have created boundaries among them which have then led to nations and governments.  We also look at groups that help to bring the world’s nations together such as the UN, NATO, NAFTA, European Union and organizations that tear the world apart such as terrorism.  In this unit, they create their own nation-state to explore the difficulties that are created.

Agriculture
In this unit, we focus on the origins and current distribution of food.  We will also evaluate organic vs. genetically engineered foods.  We will discuss food waste and what we can do to protect our planet and the agricultural system. 

Industrialization
In this unit, we look at how industry began.  We also learn the five key characteristics of a successful industry.  Students walk through the process of building an industrial city.  We also discuss the effect de-industrialization on cities.

Cities and Urban Use
In this unit, we look at the process of building urban spaces.  We will explore the effect cities have on the environment and we will evaluate current trends of megacities and the highest populated cities.

Frequently Asked Questions about AP Human Geography

1. Is this class hard?

YES!  This is a college level course and we use a college level textbook.  Students that take this class are often used to “easy A’s.” They don’t need to study much, if at all, to get an A in their junior high school classes.  So, typically, this class comes as a shock to their system because it requires outside studying and learning. An A will only come to those students that really put time and effort into homework, studying, and paying attention in class.

2. How much time will I spend on homework each night?

Our class will meet every other day.  So, if you do the homework on the night I assign it to you, it should take you approximately two hours.  Homework typically consists of reading 8-10 pages in the textbook and taking Cornell Notes (which I will go over the first few days of class).  Sometimes, I will also include an article or other assignment in addition to reading. You will be given homework every day!

3. Why should I take this class?

The focus of this course is to teach you all the material that you will need to know to take a test created by the College Board in May.  If you pass the test with a score of 3, 4, or 5, you can earn college credit (typically general units for college graduation). This course also provides a weighted GPA.  For example, an A is worth five points, a B four points, and so on.

4. Will I do OK if I have extra-curricular activities (sports, community service, performing arts, etc.)?

My typical student is VERY involved outside the classroom.  It will take planning and time management during the season of your activity, but my students have never used extra-curricular activities as an excuse not to do well.  In fact, I think it motivates them to stay on top of their work.

5.  I want to sign up for this class, what do I do next?

When you meet with your West Ranch counselor, just let them know that you are interested and they will sign you up. 

You can also go to https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/courses/ap-human-geography?course=ap-human-geography to learn more about the course.

Don't hesitate to e-mail me at drojas@hartdistrict.org with any other questions.  

Thank you!!