Shortchanged: How Advanced Placement Cheats Students

Explore the compelling narrative found in Advanced Placement by Annie Abrams, a thought-provoking book that dives deep into the intricacies of the Advanced Placement (AP) program and its impact on contemporary education. The author presents a well-researched critique of the program, drawing attention to the cultural and political ramifications it has on our education system. Through 80 pages dedicated to the origins and evolution of the AP program, Abrams reflects on how...

Explore the compelling narrative found in Advanced Placement by Annie Abrams, a thought-provoking book that dives deep into the intricacies of the Advanced Placement (AP) program and its impact on contemporary education. The author presents a well-researched critique of the program, drawing attention to the cultural and political ramifications it has on our education system. Through 80 pages dedicated to the origins and evolution of the AP program, Abrams reflects on how the intentions of its founders have been overshadowed by corporate influence and the obsession with standardized testing.

This insightful book covers four significant AP courses: English Language and Composition, English Literature and Composition, United States History, and United States Government and Politics. Abrams doesn't shy away from discussing the restrictions these curricula impose on educators and students alike. She warns of a learning environment stripped of autonomy where teachers are disempowered, and students are only prepared for success in a high-stakes testing culture.

In a candid tone, Abrams acknowledges the inconsistencies and shortcomings present in these popular academic offerings, adding weight to her argument that the essence of learning is being replaced by a transactional scheme. This book is not merely a critique; it is a clarion call for educators, parents, and policymakers to rethink what education should embody. Readers will find themselves questioning the purpose of education as they journey through the pages filled with poignant commentary and suggestions.

The emotional heft of this book lies in its brave confrontation of a system that often prioritizes grades over genuine learning. Advanced Placement provides a much-needed lens through which we can view the proliferation of standardized education models and their broader implications on society.

Target Audience

• Educators seeking to enhance their professional practice
• Parents wanting insight into educational systems
• Students pursuing a deeper understanding of their curriculum
• Policy makers focused on educational reform
• Academics examining the sociopolitical dynamics of education

Occasions

This book makes a perfect gift for anyone looking to engage critically with the principles of education, particularly on occasions such as Graduation, Teacher Appreciation Week, or Educational Reform Conferences.

Key Features

• In-depth analysis of the AP program's history and its current implications
• Thought-provoking critique of educational practices
• Personal anecdotes from the author's experience in education
• A call for dialogue around education's purpose
• Insight into the intersection of policy and pedagogy

Comparison with Competitors

Unlike other education-focused books that simply praise or condemn the AP system, Advanced Placement offers a nuanced perspective. While some books might gloss over the challenges faced by educators and students, Abram’s work demands a reckoning with the societal expectations surrounding education.

Emotional Appeal

This work resonates with anyone who has felt the pressures of standardized education and its impact on creative learning and emotional intelligence. It serves as a reminder that education should be about nurturing the whole student—not just preparing them for tests—but also for life.