U.S. History Skillbook

About the Book

The Definitive Skill-Building Pathway for APUSH Mastery

Many AP U.S. History students master historical content but struggle to translate that knowledge into high-scoring essays. Success on the AP exam requires more than memorization—it demands the application of sophisticated analytical and writing skills under pressure. U.S. History Skillbook is designed to bridge this critical gap, breaking down complex Disciplinary Practices and Reasoning Skills into 37 clear, manageable lessons that build confidence and competence one step at a time.

Comprehensive, Classroom-Tested Practice

Developed by Sherpa Learning, a family-owned independent publisher founded in 2014, this resource has become a trusted classroom staple endorsed by top educators nationwide. The exercises are synced to the nine APUSH Historical Periods, making Skillbook an ideal year-long companion to any primary textbook or curriculum timeline.

• 37 Core Skill Lessons: Every lesson focuses on a specific historical thinking skill, providing a structured approach that builds from simple understanding to advanced inquiry, ensuring systematic mastery at every level.
• Expert Analysis Frameworks: Students master proven mnemonic strategies—including H.I.P.P.O. for document analysis, P.O.W.S. for establishing credibility, and the A.C.I.D. Test for thesis development—that make complex analysis memorable and systematic.
• Comprehensive Writing Support: Step-by-step guides and planner worksheets walk students through every stage of both the Document-Based Question (DBQ) and Long Essay Question (LEQ), from organizing evidence to crafting compelling conclusions.
• Authentic Source Variety: A wide array of primary and secondary sources—including maps, data tables, political cartoons, and illustrations—prepares students to confidently tackle any document type on exam day.

Guidance from an AP Insider

These carefully designed features reflect years of classroom experience and exam expertise. Authored by Michael Henry, Ph.D., who taught AP U.S. History for over 20 years, this resource provides the "Exam Leader's Edge." Dr. Henry served as an AP Exam Leader for 8 years and has extensive experience as a Reader and Table Leader, ensuring every exercise aligns precisely with what exam scorers seek and official scoring standards demand.

Essential Features for Success

• Detailed Answer Key: Thorough answers and explanations for every exercise provide immediate reinforcement and clear learning pathways.
• Robust Online Resources: Digital access to blank worksheet templates, detailed period summaries, and sample student responses.
• Versatile Implementation: Functions equally well as a primary textbook companion, a standalone writing tutorial, or a targeted review tool for study groups.

U.S. History Skillbook is more than a practice manual—it is a professional-grade learning pathway that transforms AP U.S. History from an overwhelming challenge into an achievable path to success.