The Call for a Required Project in APUSH

And a list of potential projects

Since 2018, College Board has required all APGov students to “complete either a political science research project or an applied civics project.”

Today, many educators, myself included, believe it’s time for CB to require all APUSH students to complete either a historical research paper or an applied history project.

Below, “potential projects” that I would like to see mentioned in a future APUSH CED.

1. An Oral History Project
2. A Local History Blog Post
3. A Historical Fiction Novel Pitch
4. A Virtual Museum Wall Display
5. A Local History Digital Newspaper Story
6. A U.S History Course Inspired Civic Action Project
7. A Resemblance Video: (a three-to-ten minute, bite-sized bit of knowledge that corresponds in appearance or qualities to a youtube video produced by an esteemed educator and that proves of great viewing value to students enrolled in most middle school or high school US History courses.)
8. A Modern Day Term Paper (preferably modeled after a CRF BRIA)

I would also like to see CB include mention of a few potential projects that aren’t as “complex and extensive” as the ones appearing above.

If CB were to ever go down this path, I’m hoping the APUSH CED will state that these potential projects can be conducted by either individuals or groups as appropriate, with the potential projects ranging in complexity and length.

I’m also hoping the CED will state that the more complex and extensive projects on this list will offer the greatest opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of course concepts and develop disciplinary practices.

If CB decides not to go down this path, then I’m hoping it will design a fall project for APUSH which could replace part of the AP exam for schools that elect to do it, with students to be able to submit the project for scoring at the AP Reading. (“This is (something) we’re definitely considering,” said Trevor Packer to me in a recent email.)

A required historical research project or an applied history project is now, more than ever, in the best interest of all APUSH students.

APUSH students who are required to complete a historical research project or an applied history project will:

1. Outperform their more traditional classroom peers.
2. Submit better college application essays.
3. Receive better letters of recommendation.
4. Report a more joyful learning experience.
5. Cheat less.

For a detailing of each of the above-mentioned claims followed by the answers I give when asked about these claims, click here.