AP Comparative Gov Cheat Sheet and Review Chart

Introduction to Comparative Government

Objective: Understand and analyze different governmental structures globally.

• Focus Countries: Great Britain, Iran, Nigeria, Mexico, China, Russia
• Key Concepts: Governance, policy-making, political culture, political parties, elections, changes and reforms

Exam Format Overview

Multiple Choice Section (MCQ)

• Structure: 55 questions, 60 minutes
• Content:
  • Questions from 2020-21 have 4 answer options each.
  • Inclusion of 2 text-based sources with 2–3 questions each.
  • Inclusion of 3 quantitative sources with 2–3 questions each.

Free Response Questions (FRQ)

• Duration: 90 minutes
• Weight: 50% of exam score
• Question Types:
  1. Conceptual Analysis: Describe or explain a political concept.
  2. Quantitative Analysis: Analyze visual data to explain trends related to course concepts.
  3. Comparative Analysis: Compare political structures, policies, or institutions.
  4. Argument Essay: Craft an argument-based essay on a given topic.

Review Topics by Country

Key Concepts and Definitions

• Absolutism: Centralized control, historical relevance in European governance.
• Mercantilism: Economic policy aimed at strengthening national economies.
• Colonialism: Establishment of control over foreign territories for economic exploitation.

Preparation Tips

• Past Exams: Review past exam questions for structure and example content.
• Concept Focus: Pay special attention to how different concepts are applied in each of the focus countries.
• Practice Essays: Write practice essays, especially for the argument essay section, to refine your ability to formulate and support an argument efficiently.

Visual Aids

• Include comparative charts and graphs to visually summarize the political systems, economic policies, and key historical events for each country.
• Utilize flowcharts to explain the decision-making processes and power distribution in different government types.

Additional Resources

• Recommended Textbooks: List of approved textbooks that provide in-depth coverage of the course content.
• Online Resources: Links to online lectures, official guidelines, and sample questions from the College Board.