<p>I have a problem with AP european history. I don't do very well on the tests, in fact, my highest was an A-, and the average of my tests are within the B+ range. I can't get them any higher. On the last test, I got a C+, which was really ironic, because I thought it was the best test in euro i had ever taken.
What's your strategy for studying history?
Usually I read a paragraph and write down three important facts about it and move on.
Does anyone recommend SQ3R?
It's really hard because I spend a lot of time for that class, but my brain doesn't function the "social studies" way, it's more into science and math.
Thanks!</p>
<p>It depends on the test. This year for AP World it's mainly just multiple choice-and to study for that I just read the assigned reading, show up to class, and take the test.
I don't know what SQ3R is so I can't recommend it. One reason, though, as to why I'm able to essentially not study and still pass well is because I've learned to just view history as a story. A lot of things in history very simply make sense. If this happens, that happens, and that happens. Don't just try to memorize the facts stone cold(although I guess with names and dates that is the only way)-try to connect them so that they make sense.
Other methods could be in notetaking-by subject(Politics, Economics, Religion, Society, Geography, etc.), notecards, and if you're doing any chapters that discuss more than one area in depth, try compare and contrast. Make columns of similarities and differences. But don't stop there, or you won't remember them. Then try to think about how these similarities and differences shaped their separate histories-and the paths and results. History isn't totally random, it's usually a long series of chain reactions if you look clearly enough.</p>
<p>I had the same problem when I took Euro. When I started the class, I was used to memorizing facts, but history is a Big Picture subject, where one thing leads to the next, one is the cause of the other. Writing down three facts per paragraph is probably very time consuming.</p>
<p>I would recommend getting a study buddy. My friend and I would read a small section and then explain it to each other. We also used notecards with mneumonic devices such as acronyms for all the rulers and their characteristics/countries, etc. Pictures helped as well. Make the information come alive and actively read. Don't just read with the purpose of finding three facts. </p>
<p>And if you still want to write facts, then rewrite them in your own words, don't just copy!</p>
<p>Good luck on your next test!</p>
<p>I know your struggling on the tests but take heart i did all the homework did horribly on the tests (never above a B) and still got a B in the class......but if your trying for an A then idk wut to tell u =)</p>
<p>I don't know how to help you much, seeing as I never really studied for tests in my AP US History class, but I really struggled in that class, it was basically a shock to everyone who took it (and a blow to their GPA's most likely), but my teacher always suggested just basically skimming sections and going back and picking out important facts.. facts from every paragraph may be too much, sometimes entire pages don't have too much substance in them. Good luck!</p>
<p>When we're actually covering the material in class, I take lots of notes, but they're usually messy/disorganized. When test time comes along, re-reading the chapters doesn't help me very much, because it's easy to read without thinking about what you're actually reading. I like to take all of my notes, and organize them into something comprehensive and easy to look at, like an outline. That forces me to actually <em>think</em> about the material, which makes it stick in my head. Also, when I'm doing last minute cramming right before class :), all of the important information is organized and easy to refer to. </p>
<p>I definitely agree with xraven about using mnemonic devices for remembering lots of detail, and about writing things down in your own words! <em>Especially</em> the part about writing things down in your own words, because again, that forces you to process the information, rather than just passively copying things down.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>Wow twinkletoes23. I am in the EXACT same situation. I need to do better in AP World History. My teacher made us all buy the Princeton Review Book. I didn't get a chance to review it because I just got it, but I will for the next test. This class is my lowest grade (85%) and it is ruining my average. I am trying very hard as well, however, I don't think I am connecting the ideas of history into a well organized story. I find myself just pure memorizing. That is great advice chrysalis! I will definately try what you suggested. I really need to get this grade up to a 92! I agree withh the above post. Since there is so much information covered on one test, you need to organize something and see how these factors shaped society in comparison with the others. Well GOOD LUCK!</p>
<p>Any tips from people in this class (doing very well). Including Rmac2188 with his 98% average (nice).</p>
<p>Two tips...</p>
<p>For AP Euro, obtain a copy of Modern European History by Viault. It provides chapter outlines that parallel McKay's A History of Western Society nicely (much better than Barrons or PR). Also, in general, I have noticed that lots of people try to outline history books as they go, and as a result, wind up with a lot of superfluous information in their notes. It has proven much more effective to read a few paragraphs, or even an entire section, before taking notes. By doing this, you'll have a better idea of larger picture, and the most important points. You'll also be forced to analyze the information that you would have otherwise jotted down without second thought.</p>
<p>Good-luck!</p>
<p>Also, has anyone taken the SAT II World History exam without taking the class (AP Euro and AP US instead)? My school doesn't offer the course this year, and I need to find a third SAT II. My Euro teacher gave me two World History books, but I forget their titles, as they are at home, and I am away. If anyone has done this, and has scored well, I'd really appreciate tips / prep book info.</p>
<p>Thanks so much!</p>
<p>History has always been my worst subject, probably because there isn't much logic to them, unlike math where you just plug the equation in and go.</p>
<p>I had a 93.8 in the beginning of the term, went down to 92.7, and now with that fat C+ on my test, 91.1. it's the only A- I've had since 6th grade!</p>
<p>hey_la , do you mean you recopy ALL of your notes and organize them? wouldn't that take forever?</p>
<p>and how long do u spend in these almost impossible history classes? I have a friend who claims she studies five hours per night just for the class. but then again, she breaks the curve for every test...</p>
<p>Five hours is either an exaggeration, or she's... well, nevermind. I think that unless your teacher is crazy, an hour and a half average is probably reasonable. Keep up with the reading every night, don't procrastinate! Cramming just makes you exhausted the next day, which isn't good for test taking.</p>
<p>If you're going to use a Test Prep book such a Barron's, make sure you're not using it at a substitute, but instead a supplement. Test prep books just summarize the main ideas but leave out details, so don't rely solely on it.</p>
<p>I would suggest highlight as well. Write down the notes first (outline form is best when you are taking notes in class, it's good for organization and separating out key ideas and thoughts) and then, two days before the test, take out your notebook and a highlighter. Highlight only KEY terms and concepts (don't go crazy). I've found that this gets me to write the info (in class), read the information once, and then highlighting forces me to reread the info again.</p>
<p>An A- isn't bad! I don't know how it factors into your GPA (we only had A, B, C, no +/-), but if colleges end up converting your grades (which they will), it will only show up as an A.</p>
<p>Also! Relax. Start the test with the mentality that you have prepared all that you can, you know the info, and you're going to ace it. Don't psych yourself out by thinking you're going to fail, it won't help! Good luck. :)</p>