AP Human GeographyAP
Patterns and processes shaping the Earth.
Overview
AP Human Geography explores patterns and processes that shape human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth's surface.
Why it matters
Develops spatial thinking and data analysis using maps, models, and case studies.
Skills you’ll build
- Spatial data analysis
- Modeling & mapping
- Case study evaluation
- Argumentation
Topic Breakdown (Units)
Unit 1: Thinking Geographically
- Scale
- Projections
- Spatial patterns
Unit 2: Population and Migration Patterns and Processes
- Population dynamics
- Migration
Unit 3: Cultural Patterns and Processes
- Culture & language
- Religion
- Diffusion
Unit 4: Political Patterns and Processes
- Statehood
- Boundaries
- Geopolitics
Unit 5: Agriculture and Rural Land-Use Patterns and Processes
- Agricultural hearths
- Intensive/extensive
- Von Thünen
Unit 6: Cities and Urban Land-Use
- Urban models
- Housing & transport
Unit 7: Industrial and Economic Development Patterns and Processes
- Sectors
- Globalization
Lessons & Notes
Unit 1: Thinking Geographically
Foundations of geographic thinking and tools.
- map types
- spatial diffusion
Unit 2: Population and Migration Patterns and Processes
Distribution, density, and movement of people.
- DTM
- push-pull factors
Unit 3: Cultural Patterns and Processes
Cultural landscapes and change.
- folk vs popular culture
- acculturation
Unit 4: Political Patterns and Processes
Organization of political space.
- sovereignty
- gerrymandering
Unit 5: Agriculture and Rural Land-Use Patterns and Processes
Food production and land use.
- Green Revolution
- subsistence vs commercial
Unit 6: Cities and Urban Land-Use
Urbanization and spatial organization.
- Burgess model
- edge cities
Unit 7: Industrial and Economic Development Patterns and Processes
Spatial patterns of development and trade.
- HDI
- outsourcing