AP® Human Geography

All-Gender Course; Prerequisite - Completion of one year of eighth grade; Full-year course
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This course revolves upon the five core themes of geography: location, place, region, movement, and human-environment interaction. Students learn how to study the systemic patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of the earth's surface (including agriculture, industries, markets, and urbanization). Students learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their research and applications. The curriculum reflects the goals of the National Geography Standards. Using personalized learning options, collaborative discussions, and creative synthesis applications, students will develop an appreciation of the variables that geographers consider when analytically problem-solving for the contemporary challenges facing our world. Core competencies developed throughout the course include: the ability to develop and apply multivariable analyses based upon the themes of geography; active engagement with current events; and collaborative problem solving that evaluates the potential unintended consequences of interventions into local, regional, and global communities. Students taking this course are well prepared for the AP® Human Geography Exam in May.
WHAT STUDENTS SAY

"AP Human Geography is teaching me about why and where certain things happen in the world. It's teaching me more about the world we live in and giving different perspectives, which I think is really interesting. I like hearing the views of other students too because we don't always have the same view on the topic."

​"I felt that everything was very relevant to my understanding of the world and improved me as a global citizen. I appreciate the skills I have acquired such as time management, taking risks, learning how to struggle a little bit, and dealing with discomfort.” “

"This semester in AP Human Geography was very fun and very interesting. I found myself learning a lot about different concepts and applying them on the exam felt very satisfying. I really enjoyed all of the discussions we had during the semester, and I learned a lot about my classmates who also take this course….I also wanted to learn more about different cultures, and I also can say that was also a successful endeavor.” 

WHAT STUDENTS DO
Learning is an active process at One Schoolhouse. Students design, create and apply. And, they engage with classmates and connect with their teachers through discussions, video conferences, and projects. Specifically, in this class students will:
  • Set goals that drive their learning. Students reflect regularly on their growth, and meet on video chat with their online teacher to review progress towards their goals.
  • Have choice in how they learn new content and practice new skills. Students are given agency to determine the best ways for them to learn.
  • Apply what they are learning to the real world. Learning is meaningful and connects to concepts outside the classroom.
  • Practice constructive engagement in a diverse and changing world. Students interact with classmates from across the country and around the world.
  • Gain academic maturity. Online learning takes greater discipline and independence than a traditional face-to-face classroom. Teachers support students to build this skill.
MEET A TEACHER FOR THIS COURSE
SIGNATURE ACTIVITIES
Examples of signature activities and projects for this course are:
  • Collaborative student driven discussions
  • Mapping games
  • Optional deeper dives into unit themes ​
COURSE APPROVAL
This course is approved by the College Board and the NCAA. 

One Schoolhouse is fully accredited with the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges through December 1, 2025; we are an approved online publisher for the University of California. ​
Kerry Smith
Humanities Teacher
B.A., Oglethorpe University
M.A., Ohio State University