PASSAIC COUNTY TECHNICAL INSTITUTE
AP US HISTORY II
SUMMER READING ASSIGNMENT 2015
Summer Readings/ AssignmentPart 1- Historical Analysis Assignment (CR1c, CR5, CR6, CR8. CR13)
A- Students are to read three excerpts from the Historians listed here.
A. Richard Hofstadter- The Founding Fathers: An Age of Realism
http://cf.linnbenton.edu/artcom/social_science/clarkd/upload/the%20founding%20fathers--hofstadter.pdf
B. Charles Beard’s- An Economic Interpretation of the Constitution of the United States
http://teachingamericanhistory.org/library/index.asp?document=2324
C. Theodore White’s Unfinished Work entitled An American Idea
http://american-crisis.blogspot.com/2008/07/american-idea-by-theodore-hwhite.html
Then student must prepare your 2-3 page analysis of these works in connection with the
following theme.
America’s foundations rely on the principle of possibilities. Since our origin, we
have believed that all was possible here unlike any other nation of the world then
and now. Our political, economic and social norms reflect this belief even when
the actions and events through time might show otherwise.
Defend or refute this statement. Think of your own views. Provide your thesis with as
much supporting information as you can.
Your analysis is due on August 14, 2015 or before via email.
B- Political Cartoon Analysis
Based on your analysis. Research and select a political cartoon which supports your
opinion on that topic. If you wish you can creatively develop a political cartoon on
your own.
You will present your political cartoon with your analysis which supports your
choice and views on this topic in class on September 3, 2015.
Part 2- Reading for Enrichment {CR1b, CR1c, CR9, CR12, CR13}
Students are to select one of the books listed below and prepare an analysis of the content
in relation to the time period and the impact to the present day utilizing the suggested
focus questions.
Gideon’s Trumpet by Anthony LewisWhat was the real significance of the case Gideon v. Wainwright as we look at it
fifty years later? Explain your understanding of the Constitutional process involved in
this case. Analyze the benefits of our constitutional democracy.
(One Test Grade which is due on Friday, August 21, 2015 via email)
(or)
The Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison
Twenty Years at Hull House by Jane Addams
Explain the historic times which determined the development of the book. Why did such
actions and events occur? How did this book change the events of history? What impact
did the book, the ideas presented and/or the author have on our history?
(One Test Grade which is due on Friday, August 21, 2015 via email)
FYI- Textbook work: You have our textbook to work with till next June.
The American Pageant
We will begin with Chapter 28 on Progressivism to continue on with the domestic
reform policies that Mr. Rosenfeld left off with in June. The Chapter REPS for this
Chapter will be due on September 9, 2015. We will have a Quiz on that day to assess
your basic understanding of the material using a series of AP Multiple Choice Questions.
This will occur with each chapter on the day the REPS are due.
FYI- Chapter 27 REPS on Imperialism will be due on September 22, 2015.
You can contact me with any questions.
My contact information is the following:
Email: cpagano@pcti.tec.nj.us