A well-designed AP course in Comparative Government and Politics will provide students with the conceptual tools necessary to develop an understanding of some of the world's diverse political structures and practices. The course should encompass the study of both specific countries and their governments and general concepts used to interpret the political relationships and institutions found in virtually all national polities. Five countries form the core of the AP Comparative Government and Politics Examination. Four of these countries - Great Britain, France, China, and Russia/the former Soviet Union - are commonly covered in college-level introductory comparative politics courses. They are taught because they provide a foundation for developing paradigms of different types of political systems. The inclusion of a fifth developing country allows students to examine yet another source of theory building, as well as understand the political implications of different levels of economic development. For the fifth country, teachers may choose to cover India, Mexico, or Nigeria.

Comparative government and politics courses vary widely at the college level, in terms of approach, countries covered, and theoretical issues raised. However, despite diversity, certain topics are usually covered in all comparative politics courses. The following sections highlight the substantive topics on which all AP students in comparative politics will be tested.

I. The Sources of Public Authority and Political Power

II. The Relationship Between State and Society

III. The Relationships Between Citizens and States

IV. Political Institutions and Frameworks

V. Political Change

VI. The Comparative Method

Last Revised: July 22, 2005