The AP Comparative Government and Politics course is a challenging but rewarding journey. A well-structured pacing guide is crucial for success, ensuring you cover all the material thoroughly while managing your time effectively. This guide offers a flexible framework adaptable to different teaching styles and student needs. Remember to consult your specific AP curriculum and teacher’s syllabus for detailed assignments and assessment schedules.
Understanding the Course Structure
The AP Comparative Government exam focuses on six countries: China, Iran, Mexico, Nigeria, Russia, and the United Kingdom. The course examines these nations' political systems, focusing on their similarities and differences. The exam assesses your understanding of concepts like:
- Institutions: Executive, legislative, judicial branches; bureaucracies; military
- Political Participation: Elections, voting behavior, political parties, interest groups, social movements
- Public Policy: Economic, social, and foreign policies
- Comparative Politics: Theories and concepts applied across countries
- Sovereignty, Authority, and Power: How power is distributed and exercised within each nation
Suggested Pacing Guide (Semester System – Adjust as needed for year-long courses)
Semester 1:
- Weeks 1-3: Introduction to Comparative Politics & Research Methods: Begin with foundational concepts – defining key terms, understanding the comparative method, and developing analytical skills. Introduce the six countries and establish a comparative framework. This lays the groundwork for the rest of the course.
- Weeks 4-7: United Kingdom: Dive deep into the UK's parliamentary system, focusing on its history, institutions, and political parties. Analyze the role of the monarchy, Parliament, and the Prime Minister. Explore key policy areas and challenges.
- Weeks 8-11: Russia: Examine Russia's transition from communism to a semi-authoritarian system. Analyze its institutions, political parties, and the role of the president. Consider the impact of its history and geography on its political development. Analyze the challenges of democratic consolidation.
- Weeks 12-15: China: Explore China's communist political system, its economic reforms, and the role of the Communist Party. Examine the relationship between the Party, the state, and the people. Discuss China’s evolving role in the global community.
Semester 2:
- Weeks 16-19: Iran: Analyze Iran's theocratic political system, focusing on the interplay between religious and political authority. Examine the role of the Supreme Leader, the Parliament, and the Guardian Council. Discuss the challenges facing Iran's political system and its impact on its domestic and foreign policies.
- Weeks 20-23: Mexico: Study Mexico's transition from authoritarianism to a more democratic system. Analyze the impact of its history, its institutions, and its political parties. Discuss challenges including drug cartels, corruption, and economic inequality.
- Weeks 24-27: Nigeria: Examine Nigeria's challenges in consolidating democracy, including ethnic and religious diversity, corruption, and economic inequality. Analyze its institutions, political parties, and the role of the president and the military.
- Weeks 28-30: Review and Exam Preparation: Dedicate ample time to reviewing all six countries, practicing comparative analysis, and preparing for the AP exam. Utilize practice exams and review materials to identify strengths and weaknesses.
Addressing Potential "People Also Ask" Questions
How can I effectively compare and contrast the six countries? Create a comparative chart that organizes key information (political systems, institutions, policies, etc.) for each country. Use this chart as a tool for identifying similarities and differences, facilitating effective essay writing.
What are the most important concepts to focus on? Master core concepts like sovereignty, legitimacy, political participation, and public policy. Apply these concepts to each country to build a strong understanding of their political systems.
How can I improve my essay writing skills? Practice writing comparative essays using past AP exam prompts. Focus on constructing clear arguments, using evidence effectively, and developing strong thesis statements. Seek feedback from your teacher or peers to improve your writing.
What resources are available to help me succeed? Use the official AP Comparative Government and Politics textbook, supplemental readings, and online resources. Engage with your teacher and classmates for support and discussion.
How many hours per week should I dedicate to studying? The amount of time needed will vary depending on your learning style and prior knowledge. Plan for consistent study time throughout the course, dedicating more time as the exam approaches.
This pacing guide provides a robust framework. Remember flexibility is key. Adapt it to your learning style and seek support from your teacher when needed. Good luck!
