This AP course is a chronological survey of Western Art and an overview of art and ideas, beginning with Prehistoric and ending with Post-Modernism. In this course, students will have an opportunity to examine and critically analyze major forms of artistic expression from the past and present from a variety of cultures. Art will be viewed both as an expression of a culture and as an exchange of ideas across cultures. This course includes an investigation of art and art history through reading, slides, films, virtual tours, field trips, and art projects. Special attention will be given to the development of skills and knowledge necessary for written and oral interpretation of art. The AP offering in Art History is designed to provide the same benefits to secondary school students as those provided by an introductory college course in Art History: an understanding and knowledge of architecture, sculpture, painting, and other art forms within diverse historical and cultural contexts. Many colleges and universities offer advanced placement and/or credit to students who have performed successfully on the AP Art History Exam.