Set your students up for APUSH free-response success with this skill-building bundle! This resource combines an interactive PowerPoint lesson with a hands-on investigation worksheet to help students decode, practice, and master the six essential AP History task verbs. Perfect for building confidence in SAQs, LEQs, and DBQs!

What’s Included:

PowerPoint Lesson: Mastering AP History Task Verbs

• Step-by-step introduction to the six AP History task verbs (Identify, Describe, Compare, Explain, Evaluate, Support an Argument)
• Student-friendly definitions and examples
• Built-in practice activities (Think–Pair–Share, Back-to-Back Face-to-Face, Compass Points, Peer Review)
• Common mistakes to avoid for each task verb
• Task Verb Hierarchy: from simplest to most complex
• Reflection and self-assessment prompts
  

Inquiry Investigation Worksheet: APUSH Task Verbs

• Detective-style analysis of task verbs in prompts
• Ranking activity to evaluate complexity of verbs
• Error analysis with sample student responses
• Strategic evidence selection practice using Progressive Era examples
• Synthesis and reflection section to plan improvement strategies
• Independent extension challenge with an actual AP free-response question
  

Classroom Uses:

• Skill-building lesson for the start of the year
• Ongoing review before major SAQ/LEQ/DBQ assessments
• Partner or small group activity
• Substitute-friendly, no-prep lesson and worksheet combo
• Test prep tool before the AP exam
  

Skills Reinforced:

• Decoding task verbs in AP prompts
• Structuring historical writing effectively
• Selecting and applying evidence strategically
• Reflection and metacognitive skill-building

Teacher Tip: Use the PowerPoint to introduce and model the task verbs, then assign the worksheet for independent or partner practice. Together, they make the ultimate APUSH skills package!