Ellison, Beverly A.

Answers to Common questions about APUSH   

Why must all assignment be first placed in turnitin.com?
It is really to insure the integrity of the student. This is a fine program and I have in the past chosen to utilize it. I will continue.
 
What are the most important skills needed for success in APUSH?
Writing, reading, and memory skills are essential for passing the APUSH test and succeeding in the class. Also a good sense of humor and a love for US History won't hurt.

Why is the APUSH exam given so much emphasis?
Exam preparation is the major outcome of the class. Unlike, other class, APUSH has a "big game" that follows a year of intense "practice". Preparation for the test is a common goal that serves as a motivator and bond for our class. It is important that everyone who is the class is committed to taking the test.

What if I am nervous about the class being too demanding?
It is perfectly normal to be anxious about the APUSH demands. Like any important commitment, you should take the decision to be in APUSH seriously. In most cases, individuals who are not a little anxious are probably naive about the future workload. On the other hand, many students underestimate their own potential. Early informational meetings with me are intended to help ease your concerns.  You are not alone. I will have study sessions before tests - and you are most welcome and encouraged to come.  

Why is it necessary to read during the school breaks (fall and spring breaks, holidays, etc.)?
In a nutshell, "you can pay me now, or you can pay me later". The intense APUSH content load must be covered by May. Past students have voiced tremendous appreciation for a "front loaded" approach that allows for a consistent pace from July to May. This approach allows for quality review time in the final month before the test. Classes that don't take this approach tend to have less time for review and struggle in their coverage of the 20th Century.

Why do A.P. students talk so much about the D.B.Q. (Document Based Question)? 
The DBQ is a unique writing component of the A.P. system that requires students to use primary source documents to defend their written position arguments. Most students have not had previous experience with this kind of approach and find the D.B.Q. a bit mysterious at first. For many A.P. students, the DBQ becomes their favorite element of the A.P. process.  

What will happen if I do not take the national test in May?                     
I think you would be making a big mistake.This is a great opportunity to receive college credit and/or college consideration.  You will be prepared and all it will cost is approxiately $87 and that's a lot cheaper than a normal college course. But if you choose not to take the test, you will receive a letter grade lower at the end of the school.  Other than that, nothing magically really happens.

If I was given one piece of advice to be successful in this class, what would it be?

You MUST keep up with your reading.  It will be very difficult to get caught up if you do not keep a consistent pattern with your reading.  Ms. Ellison will not necessarily cover everything, therefore, you must read, read, and read. Skimming is not the same as reading. Know the difference.

Can I expect my grades in this class to be lower than last year's class? 

Probably.   This is a college-level course.  You need to be prepared not to do as wonderful as you did last year.  HOWEVER, this should be temporary - hopefully.  You simply need to get into a groove of studying, writing, and testing. If you are taking 3 or more AP courses, involved in 5 million different activities that consume a lot of time, plus family obligations and a job, you will have a difficult time. Your junior year is extremely important  and  I would encourage you to focus on academics.