Western Civ 1

[pcs]

I am preping for this test and hope to take it Fed 5th or so. The posts all seem rather old. Anyone take it in the last few months that can provide any feed back. I am banghead trying to memorize all the names and places. Who thought of these names anyways!!

[gunit]

I know what you are saying about this test, I'm preping for the 16th and trying to get everything straight too.

[earlybird]

Names, dates and facts are important for this quiz, but it is equally helpful to understand the cultures surrounding certain times and places - such as music, government, entertainment, clothing, art, etc. If you've ever done ancient history (even in grade school), that is a great start for this test. I viewed it as a lot of trivia questions, and really quite enjoyed it.
Also, if you're a visual learner, this might be helpful:
Resource: The Western Tradition

Good luck!

[MissCLEP]

I agree with Earlybird. I didn't do any memorization of specific names, dates, or places. However, I was already familiar with about half of the material on the test, because I'd already studied it in high school. What I would really recommend you do (if you haven't done so already) is to get the REA study guide for this test. Lots of people have said that it's one of the best tools to use for this particular test, and I pretty much agree. If you have a good grasp if all the material in REA (not memorization of everything, but a solid understanding), and if you suppliment with a few other materials as you feel the need, you should be well prepared. When I took it, I felt prepared even though I had to make a lot of guesses, but I think I understood the material well enough to make educated guesses. This is where your knowledge of cultures and societies is helpful. IMO, with history tests most of the questions are more general and less about specific dates or names. Still learn them though, but don't stress too much.

Good luck! Let us know how you do!