With the end of the school year coming up, many AP students are getting ready to take the AP exam. First, it is important to understand what an AP class is and why students take the optional exam. The acronym, “AP”, stands for “Advanced Placement.” An AP class is part of a program of classes developed by the College Board in order to give high school students an introduction to college-level classes. High school students are able to gain college credits for this class if they take and pass the AP exam. A passing grade is a three or higher; the highest being a five. Students are also able to earn a boosted grade on a weighted grade point average (GPA). Although the exam does not affect your school grade, it is a popular option among AP students. How does a student start studying for an AP exam?

Mr. Anderson, a former AP World History and Government teacher here at West, has been asked to share some ways he would recommend for students to study for AP exams. His suggestions included focusing on time management while studying to prepare for timed tests. Mr. Anderson said, “I suggest being very aware of time management during the test and when taking practice tests the student should make sure to time themselves. Also, using the process of eliminating wrong answers for multiple choice to decide on the best answer is helpful.” Currently, Mr. Anderson is planning dates for study sessions after school for AP World History students. Ms. McMahon, a current AP US History teacher, also hosts after-school study sessions for students in AP history classes, providing useful skills that can be used not only in AP history classes, but also to increase productivity in students’ careers. Remember to study, get a healthy amount of sleep, and eat well, AP students. Good luck!