Summary
AP Human Geography students often possess strong content knowledge but struggle to translate that understanding into effective Free-Response Question (FRQ) responses. This interactive workshop focuses on practical, classroom-tested strategies for scaffolding FRQs while maintaining AP-level rigor and alignment with the APHG Course and Exam Description.
Participants will analyze common student breakdown points, unpack FRQ task verbs, and practice using scaffolds that support geographic reasoning, vocabulary, and evidence-based explanation. Emphasis will be placed on helping students move from description to analysis across human and cultural geography topics such as population, migration, urbanization, and development.
Attendees will actively engage with and share a variety of strategies and will leave with adaptable resources that can be implemented immediately. This session is designed for APHG educators seeking to improve student writing, equity of access, and confidence with FRQs while strengthening core geographic thinking skills.
Session Focus
APHG Educators | Human and Cultural Geography | Curriculum and Instruction
Conference Room
Lacy
Meet the Presenter
Allison Cecil is a National Board Certified Teacher and social studies educator at duPont Manual High School in Louisville, where she teaches AP Human Geography and Dual Credit courses in business and personal finance. She serves as an Assistant Chief Reader for the College Board AP Human Geography Exam. Allison develops inquiry-based curriculum and professional development focused on strengthening students’ geographic reasoning and evidence-based writing. Her recent projects include contributing as an author to History of Korea: Course Companion for IB History Paper 3 and leading classroom and community-based initiatives through the Korean War Legacy Foundation Veterans Legacy Project.
