The AP Program Clover High School

AP Opportunities at CHS Existing AP Courses (10): – Calculus (43), Statistics (19) – Biology (13), Chemistry (17), Environmental Science (14), Physics – US History (85), Human Geography (32) – English Literature and Composition (32), English Language and Composition – Spanish and French – Studio Art: 2-D Design (2) – Music Theory – Computer Science

AP Enrollment

AP Scores % with 3+ **2014 exams not yet administered

The Basics Advanced Placement Program ® (AP ® ) courses are college-level courses offered in high school. AP courses reflect what is taught in top introductory college courses. At the end of course, students take standardized AP Exams. Students who do well on AP Exams can earn credit and/or placement into advanced courses in college.

What Are AP Courses Like? AP courses typically demand more of students than regular or honors courses. Classes tend to be fast-paced and cover more material than typical high school classes. More time, inside and outside of the classroom, is required to complete lessons, assignments and homework. AP teachers expect their students to think critically, analyze and synthesize facts and data, weigh competing perspectives, and write clearly and persuasively.

The Benefits of AP Courses AP courses are challenging, but the work pays off. Students develop confidence, and learn study habits and time management skills essential for success in college.

How Can Parents Support Their AP Student? Encourage time management Remind your student to prioritize and to help them keep their priorities in order. Assist them with study groups. Designate specific places and times for studying and doing homework in the home.

AP Initial Qualification 92 on the PSAT and/or 42 on ACT Explore These scores place students in approximately the top 90% nationwide on each test. These scores represent the recommended scores for initial freshman admission into the AP Program.

AP Exams AP Exams are administered by schools worldwide on set dates each May. Exams usually last around three hours. Each AP Exam contains: – Multiple-choice questions – Free-response questions (essay, problem-solving, oral response)

AP and College Admission Colleges rank “Grades in college prep courses” and “Strength of curriculum” as the top two factors in the admission decision.* 85% of selective colleges and universities (less than 70% of applicants admitted)report that a student’s AP experience favorably impacts admission decisions. AP courses are seen as a sign that students are not afraid to challenge themselves thus most colleges and universities view AP coursework as advanced preparation for college.

AP Boosts Eligibility for Scholarships 31% of colleges and universities consider a student’s AP experience when making decisions about which students will receive scholarships. “Having the AP exam score can make the difference when it comes down to awarding precious scholarship dollars” – Edwina Harris Hamby, former Dean of Admissions, Fisk University “Having the AP Exam score can make the difference when it comes down to awarding precious scholarship dollars.” —Edwina Harris Hamby, former Dean of Admission, Fisk University

UNC Study What is the perfect amount of AP? Depends on the student Areas of strength, future goals, or a variety of classes For UNC, five is a magic number.

Top Ten admissions questions Wake Forest – SAT/ACT optional Academic Record -Curriculum -Grades

Typical grade level for courses 9 th grade Human Geography 10 th grade US History 11 th grade English Literature Physics 12 th grade English Language Calculus Computer Science Visual Art 11 th or 12 th Biology Chemistry Environmental Statistics French Spanish Computer Science Music Theory

Possible differences in 9 th grade schedule Fall (August – January)Spring (January – June) English 2 HonorsGeometry Honors World Geography HonorsPhysical Science Honors Spanish 1 or 2PE or ROTC Elective Fall (August – January)Spring (January – June) English 2 HonorsGeometry Honors AP Human Geography Spanish 1 or 2Biology 1 Honors PE or ROTC or ElectiveElective

Biology 1 Honors Curiosity – Science is about asking questions Energy – You get out what you put in Fun – LABS! Topics Atoms, Periodic Table, Bonding, Cells, Energy, Heredity, Ecology, Change over time

Biology 1 Honors Keys to Success Organized Notebook and Agenda Keep up with the course due dates Come to class prepared Additional reading assignments High level of participation in course discussions Vocabulary

Welcome to AP Human Geography!

What is Human Geography? Geography is the study of where things are located on Earth’s surface and the reasons for the location. (Where? and Why?) Human geography is the study of where human activities are located and why human activities are located where they are. (Examples: religions, businesses, cities, languages, ethnicities, agriculture, manufacturing, services, etc.)

Course Topics Geography: It’s Nature and Perspectives Population Cultural Patterns and Processes Political Organization of Space Agricultural and Rural Land Use Industrialization and Economic Development Cities and Urban Land Use

What to expect next year? High Expectations and High Rigor College level course –This means it will be challenging but you have opportunity to earn college credit.

Readings Per Class20 pages every 2 days Read carefully and thoughtfully and take notes as you read. You must outline each section before it is discussed in class. Study Hours Per Class 1.5 hours per day if you spread out the work appropriately Tests, Essays, Papers 1-2 tests per unit consisting of 40 multiple choice questions and 1 free response question. Covers large amounts of material. Includes high level analysis and application questions. Major ProjectsOne project per unit. Summer Work Consists of mapping, reading, and current event analysis. Graded. Due on first day of school.

Special Thanks to our Student Panel!!

Thank you! Please complete the forms and turn into your Middle School Office by Thursday, April 23.