Developing Critical
Knowledge and Skills

AP courses are built around well-defined goals for student learning that give teachers a clear understanding of what students should know and be able to do by the end of the course. AP students in all subjects develop their knowledge of key concepts and practices essential to each subject, including critical thinking, reading and writing skills. In AP English, history and social science classrooms, students learn to read complex texts carefully, see many sides of an issue, and write arguments and analyses grounded in evidence. In AP science and mathematics courses, students apply similar critical reasoning skills to investigate scientific questions and solve mathematical problems. In AP arts courses, students analyze, evaluate, create and perform as a means to deepen their appreciation and understanding of the arts. In AP world language courses, students develop and practice the speaking, listening, reading and writing skills essential for understanding other languages and cultures.