1. AP Biology Jill Krajewski jill_krajewski@needham.k12.ma.us 781 455 0800 ext 2219

2. New College Board Curriculum “Big Ideas” are similar to the “themes” used in biology and chemistry. Content areas and learning objectives have been clearly defined; and use of Campbell Text strongly suggested. Data analysis and interpretation skills are stressed.

3. AP Test Second Monday in May, 8 am! Strongly recommended – What can the students get out of taking the test? Possible course credit (usually 4 or 5) More likely; preferential placement in a “honors” introductory biology course/section Self-awareness and practice taking a college-type, high- stakes final exam.

4. Beyond the test Laboratory skills – Using gel electrophoresis and other biotech equipment, experimental design, working with model organisms, preparing experiments/solutions Data analysis – Statistics – Use of Excel Practice writing in the science discipline – Build on lab report writing skills – Learn to model the lab similar to a paper in a life science journal

5. More.. Research – Learn to read abstracts, journal articles, and other science sources Discussion – Learn to use and pull from research to form a discussion during our weekly “journal club” End of year project…bring AP science to the elementary classroom!!

6. Double Block Necessary to meet the College Board guidelines for the course. Additional time spent on labs, learning statistics, learning to read science sources. Use of online text to practice AP type multiple choice. Practice of AP type open response and using rubrics to grade questions.

7. Bringing Science to Life Do you have a contact that might be able to bring the academic or research world into the classroom?  Looking for application of biology in the real world combined with a “tale of a scientist”  Particularly interested in science that crosses disciplines (would it cross over to our AP chem, physics students or our physiology/environmental science students)  Ideal candidate would be flexible and willing to spend time discussing the links to curriculum and how we can engage the students.  Guest lecture, tour of lab/company  Contact me by email or chat with me during period 2!