<p>Hello CC!</p>
<p>I still need my mandatory art credit and I really dislike the arts :( Theater, band, and choir, and even art are out of the question, so I was wondering if AP Art History (it counts as an art credit) is a good choice. I want to ask about work load. I know it is an AP class, but how difficult is it? I really enjoy history so I thought it was a good choice.</p>
<p>What do you guys think?</p>
<p>Art History is not like normal history. From my own experience it is a lot of work, but then again I share your dislike of the arts. But I managed to pull off an A through hard work. Even though it’s based on art, there are some logical parts to it, so it’s very doable. I don’t think you will like it at all, but it will be better than actual art, painting, theater, etc. </p>
<p>Also, APAH will also be the most boring class you’ll ever take (I fall asleep every time I read). A very common textbook used is Gardner’s Art Throughout the Ages. I suggest you read a few pages to feel what it is like.</p>
<p>Thanks, I will check it out.</p>
<p>It is a lot of information. You will study over 5,000 pieces dating back from prehistoric times. If you have no interest in art, you shouldn’t take it. Just taking a normal art class such as 3D art or drawing and painting, and get your art credit that way.</p>
<p>As someone who dislikes the arts and aesthetic creativity, I say that Art History is better than painting/etc. because:</p>
<p>1) You get AP credit and extra GPA point, which will stir motivation and provide worthwhile rewards as opposed to taking a normal class (as long as you’re able to take on such a rigorous course)
2) If you don’t like the arts, it’s more logical to take a class that’s more orientated towards analysis and writing as opposed to doing the actual arts.</p>
<p>I never was a fan of taking an AP class based off getting the extra GPA point. To each their own I guess.</p>
<p>Ryan’s second point is what got me interested. While the extra GPA point and such might be cool, it is the fact that Art 1 in my school is a class that is hardly enjoyable because of the people that take it and especially because of my dislike of art. I think that since I love history, an Art History course, even if it’s AP, will be more enjoyable.</p>
<p>I took regular Art History and hated the material, but my teacher was pretty much on crack so it was an amazing class. I would never take AP though cause she sucks (she thought it was impressive that ONE girl got a 4 two years ago) and it just seems like legitimate work & overwhelming. But then again I’m not an art person and only took AH (regular though) to fulfill graduation requirements.</p>
<p>Art History is extremely rewarding if you go out of your way to find a way to make the art meaningful in your life. </p>
<p>For me, this involved going to museums. Perhaps you may find meaning in the art elsewhere.</p>
<p>In terms of the workload, this depends on the teacher. I would advise any APAH students to do their best to learn several integral pieces per period, in addition to the main characteristics of the artistic period and the historical circumstances surrounding it. This may require a lot of work, depending on the type of student you are, but you will be all the better for it in the end.</p>
<p>Truly, I feel that APAH was one of the most valuable courses I took in high school. If you’re willing to take the risk, I say that you go right ahead.</p>
<p>What prep books are good for A.P. Art History? What’s the best way to prepare?</p>
<p>What are the scores that some of you have gotten and how did you prepare?
Did you start in the beginning of the school year? Over winter break? 1 Month before? 1 Week before? 2 days before? </p>
<p>Let me know, because i’m sure others would like to know this info also… THANKs :)</p>
<p>I used Barron’s and REA -both of them are great I would suggest to use Barron’s in conjunction with your textbook (as a review of each chapter) and REA for the actual test (maybe 3 weeks before the test)
I took the test this year so dont know by score yet but I think its hopefully a 5 but who knows - Anyway, there’s a lot of memorization so please, make flashcards for each artwork - trust me, they will help specially with date
I started at the beginning of the year (I did it independently) with a tutor and would do 1 chapter a week, writing notes and outlines
Go over college board’s FRQs and do them and also take as many practice tests as you can! Good luck
ps - Im dying for a 5</p>
<p>Look, art history covers thousands of works and artists from 30,000 years. It is not a bunny course. The text is as big as the phone book, and you will need to do supplemental reading to do well on the exam.
A solid background in world history can help you to understand the background of works, but it can not help you appreciate them.</p>
<p>Don’t take the class just to fill a slot. Try a general art class. (Mine literally involved drawing a colorwheel. First year art is a cinch.)</p>