Defends the grading of the advanced placement examinations in U.S. government and politics courses. Provides the criteria used for the selection of the readers. Points out among 27 readers in 1989, all had masters' degrees and 4 held doctorates in political science or international relations. Claims high school instructors in the program are…

Presents effective ways to combine classic political science readings with outside-the-classroom research assignments. Gives examples of projects that have worked well in preparing students for the United States government and politics advanced placement examination. (DB)

Responds to claims that teachers are inadequately prepared to teach advanced placement courses in U.S. government and politics. Contends that political scientists can assist secondary teachers by offering summer workshops. Defends the curriculum as an accurate reflection of a college-level course in introductory politics. (NL)

The Advanced Placement Program is based on the premise that young people can complete college-level studies while in secondary schools. It is an instrument of cooperation that extends the educational opportunities available to students by giving secondary school college-level courses appropriate college credit and placement. Advanced Placement…

Reports on a study of the free response essays in the Advance Placement U.S. history test from 1963-92. Asserts that there were four significant transition years: 1964, 1965, 1973, and 1976 and predicts another in 1994. Presents data indicating trends toward social history, cultural pluralism, and economic/business topics. (CFR)

Information for students, counselors, and parents to help in the evaluation of options and opportunities available for most college-bound students is presented in 20 articles. Titles and authors are as follows: "Getting the Most from Your High School Counselor" (James Warfield); "The Use of the SAT at Selective Colleges" (Judith Gatlin); "Tips on…