Monty Armstrong
Data based on 5 reviews.
What kind of test questions does this teacher use most often (choose one):
Multiple ChoiceIs the teacher available for extra help during study halls, lunchtime, before or after school, etc.?
Almost AlwaysThe teacher responds to emails promptly. Do you...
Strongly AgreeThe teacher posts in-class materials online for reference (slides, etc.):
Almost AlwaysThe teacher lets us know at the beginning of the course and along the way how much each part of the class (homework, papers, quizzes and tests) counts towards our total grade:
Strongly AgreeHow much homework does this teacher assign?
Way too muchThe amount of writing required in this class is:
Very HighThe teacher allows us to use technology in class (e.g. laptop, calculator, smart pen, etc.)
Almost AlwaysHow much memorization is required to do well in this teacher’s course?
Very HighWhat advice would you give yourself if you were just starting the class now?
Class of 2025
Three words: READ, THE, TEXTBOOK!!! The answers to the chapter tests are almost entirely within the book. Reading them, and UNDERSTANDING them, will give you the highest chance of success. It is also important to have analyzation skills. Multiple choice does rely on memorization, but it is more about how you approach the question. 1. Identify what the question is SPECIFICALLY asking! 2. Single out the most logical answers. 3. Use your memorized information to prove why this answer is correct. (If no answer makes sense, make an educated close guess). As long as you understand the textbook material and have a basic sense of history. You'll do good. Good luck!
Class of 2022
Read the book, seriously ToT, so much easier than all the hoops kids go through to cheat. It’s only 20-40 pgs of reading, the later APs will make that seem pretty light.
Class of 2021
To succeed in APWH, READ THE TEXTBOOK. It helps, a lot. His tests may seem difficult in the beginning, but if you read the textbook, and retain the info, you'll pass the class with an A. The Powerpoints only scratch the surface of what is on the tests. Also, actually pay attention when writing DBQs. They are graded on the same scale as the AP Test, and are usually 70 points. Tests are 100 points and Chapter Work + Lecture Notes + Review Chart + Test corrections = 100 points, so they balance out. If you write more than what is required for Notes and/or the Chart, you can earn extra credit.
Additional Comments
Class of 2022
I recommend this class to every kid who’s thinking of taking it. Armstrong influences every kid who comes through his class in a lovely way. As your first AP it will be pretty scary, and Armstrong is an intimidating person, but under the surface he’s one of the most invested teachers at Cerritos. Don’t mistake that care for him not being scary still, he struck fear into us every time someone cheated. Being disrespectful is just, embarassing. Also he’s funny, cracking jokes every once in awhile and giving anecdotes. Prepare to read the book, expect to do about 20 pages of chapter work and a 50 question MCQ every two or so weeks. I started off reading the book and then fell off 4 months in but I studied in other ways and passed with a 4. It may feel like a lot, especially at first, but it prepares you well for future APs, and challenges you to actually work rlly hard. Plus, there’s a community you’ll find in your fellow peers as everyone struggles together and forms study groups before tests, lends packets to copy/study (sorry Mr. Armstrong) and is generally kind to one another. I couldn’t have asked for a better teacher, because it might’ve not been what I wanted at first but it’s what myself and many peers needed to grow our skills and gain confidence. Plus, compared to AP lit (which is also a fun class w Mr. V), this isn’t that bad at all. If you want to ask questions, before school or at the very start of snack/lunch is def the best time btw. Good luck everyone!