1. Why Advanced Placement?

2. AP Biology Many colleges grant credit or placement for qualifying AP Exam scores Allows students to bypass intro-level coursework which makes it easier to double major or study abroad AP students are more likely to complete college within four years Students who take AP courses say it makes them feel more confident and prepared for college Studying for AP Exams helps students better retain all that they learned in class and is likely to prepare students for other college coursework in the subject Substantial cost savings ($93 to take the exam vs. $2000- 3000 to take college introductory biology course)

3. Exam Information Registration in March through the Guidance Office AP Biology Exam will be given Monday, May 12, 2014 at Heartland Community College Exam fee is approx. $93 Results are sent to students in July

4. Change is here… Many chapters are now omitted from the test. Exam format is different ◦ 73 multiple choice ◦ 6 grid-in ◦ 2 long free response ◦ 6 short free response Much more inquiry-based Students drive learning in labs

5. AP Biology Exam Scoring Multiple choice + grid-ins =50% of the score (80 min.) Free response section = 50 % of the score (80 min. + 10 min. reading period) Scored on a 5-point scale Generally, credit is give for a score of 3 or higher

6. AP Biology Exam Scoring AP Exam Score Qualification Equivalent Grade in College Course 5Extremely qualifiedA 4Well qualifiedB 3QualifiedC 2Possibly qualifiedD 1No recommendationF

7. AP Biology Exam Stats 2013 E XAM D ATA Score National Average Normal West 55.4%6.8% 421.4%24% 336.3%62% 229.5%6.8% 17.4%9%

8. Tips for Success on the AP Exam Have great attendance Keep up with the coursework Read the textbook, especially following in-class presentations Do practice test questions offered through class Get an AP Review Guide (i.e. Barron’s or Princeton Review) Utilize practice questions and tips on AP Central (apcentral.collegeboard.com) Start reviewing a couple of hours a week beginning second semester

9. Year National Average 20063.05 20073.04 20082.68 20092.71 20102.65 20112.70 2012 2013