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AP European History: Sample FRQs

1. Question:

The Renaissance and Its Influence on European Thought and Culture
The Renaissance was a period of great cultural, political, and intellectual change in Europe. In your response, be sure to:

  • Analyze the key features of the Renaissance.
  • Discuss the role of humanism in shaping Renaissance thought.
  • Explain how the Renaissance influenced European art, literature, and politics.

Response Guidelines:

  • Define the key features of the Renaissance, including the revival of classical learning and the emphasis on individualism.
  • Discuss the role of humanism, its impact on the education system, and its influence on politics and culture.
  • Provide specific examples from art, literature, and political changes that show the lasting influence of the Renaissance on European history.

2. Question:

The Industrial Revolution and Its Social Impact
The Industrial Revolution brought profound changes to European societies. In your response, be sure to:

  • Analyze the social and economic changes brought about by industrialization.
  • Discuss the effects of the Industrial Revolution on the working class, women, and urbanization.
  • Explain the role of government in responding to industrialization during the 19th century.

Response Guidelines:

  • Analyze the economic shifts caused by industrialization, such as the rise of factory work and changes in production methods.
  • Discuss the social changes, including the impact on the working class, women's roles, and urbanization.
  • Evaluate government responses to these changes, including reforms, laws, and social policies aimed at addressing industrial issues.

3. Question:

The Cold War and Its Impact on European Politics
The Cold War had a lasting impact on European politics and international relations. In your response, be sure to:

  • Analyze the political, economic, and social divisions created by the Cold War in Europe.
  • Discuss the role of key events such as the Berlin Blockade, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and the creation of NATO and the Warsaw Pact.
  • Evaluate the long-term effects of the Cold War on European integration and the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Response Guidelines:

  • Examine the political and economic divisions in Europe caused by the Cold War, including the division of Germany and the influence of the superpowers.
  • Provide specific examples of key Cold War events and their effects on European nations.
  • Analyze how the Cold War influenced European integration (such as the European Union) and how it ultimately contributed to the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Grading Rubric for AP European History FRQs

The AP European History FRQs are graded on a scale from 0-9, based on the clarity of the response, the depth of analysis, and the extent to which the student demonstrates an understanding of historical concepts.

The Renaissance and Its Influence on European Thought and Culture (0-6 points)

  • 0-1 points: The essay lacks a clear analysis or is overly vague. Key elements of the Renaissance or its impact are not addressed or are incorrect.
  • 2 points: The essay offers a basic analysis but lacks depth or coherence. Some relevant points may be present but not fully developed.
  • 3 points: The essay provides a clear analysis of the Renaissance with some relevant points, but the discussion lacks depth or fails to address all aspects of the question.
  • 4 points: The essay presents a clear, organized analysis with relevant examples, but the depth of the argument is limited or not fully developed.
  • 5 points: The essay provides a strong analysis with relevant, well-explained examples. The connection between humanism, the arts, and politics is clearly articulated.
  • 6 points: The essay offers an in-depth, sophisticated analysis with nuanced examples. The response demonstrates a strong understanding of the Renaissance and its lasting impact on European thought and culture.

The Industrial Revolution and Its Social Impact (0-6 points)

  • 0-1 points: The essay fails to analyze the social and economic changes caused by industrialization or is overly vague.
  • 2 points: The essay provides a basic description of the Industrial Revolution’s impact but lacks a thorough or well-organized analysis.
  • 3 points: The essay offers a clear analysis with some relevant points, but the depth of analysis is lacking or incomplete.
  • 4 points: The essay presents a good analysis of social and economic changes, with relevant examples. The response may lack some depth or detail in certain areas.
  • 5 points: The essay provides a detailed analysis of the Industrial Revolution's impact on society, with clear examples and explanations of social changes.
  • 6 points: The essay presents an insightful and well-supported analysis of the social and economic impact of industrialization, addressing all key aspects of the question and using specific historical examples.

The Cold War and Its Impact on European Politics (0-6 points)

  • 0-1 points: The essay lacks a clear understanding of the Cold War's impact or is overly vague. Key events or divisions are not addressed correctly.
  • 2 points: The essay provides a basic analysis but lacks depth, and the discussion of key events or their impact is minimal.
  • 3 points: The essay presents a basic understanding of the Cold War’s impact on European politics but lacks sufficient analysis of key events or their effects.
  • 4 points: The essay offers a clear analysis of the Cold War's political, economic, and social effects, with some relevant examples, but may lack depth or detail in some areas.
  • 5 points: The essay presents a strong analysis of the Cold War’s impact, with clear examples and a thorough understanding of key events such as the Berlin Blockade, Cuban Missile Crisis, and the formation of NATO and the Warsaw Pact.
  • 6 points: The essay offers a nuanced, well-supported analysis of the Cold War’s long-term effects on European politics and integration, using specific historical examples and demonstrating a deep understanding of the period.

Sample Grading Breakdown (for one FRQ)

  • The Renaissance and Its Influence on European Thought and Culture: 5 points
  • The Industrial Revolution and Its Social Impact: 6 points
  • The Cold War and Its Impact on European Politics: 6 points
  • Total: 17 points (for all three FRQs combined)

These sample FRQs provide a glimpse of the type of questions students will face on the AP European History exam. They assess historical thinking skills such as analysis, comparison, and cause-and-effect relationships. The grading rubric ensures that responses are evaluated for their depth, coherence, and the student’s ability to provide specific, relevant historical examples. Let me know if you'd like additional examples or further clarification!