Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions 
of students and parents.

1. What is an advanced placement class?
2. How can I earn an A in this class?
3. What if I need extra help?
4. Will I be prepared for the AP exam in May?
5. How much work will be expected of me on a daily basis?
6. What are the most important skills for me to practice in this class?
7. How will this year's AP exam be different from those in the past?
8. How is the AP exam evaluated?
9. How do I know that this is a sufficiently rigorous and challenging AP course?
10. How can I be successful in this course, and on the AP exam?

What is an advanced placement class?

An advanced placement class allows a student the opportunity to 
credit for work done in high school.  As such, it is extremely 
rigorous.

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How can I earn an A in this class?

Quality work is only one factor in earning top grades.  Your 
grade will also be highly dependent on whether you stay on top of 
your work and complete assignments in a timely manner.  Further, 
grade obssession will not be tolerated in a class where you 
receive an extra credit point for a B or an A.

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What if I need extra help?

Make an appointment to see me, and I will be glad to make any 
explanations or provide the additional assistance you might need.

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Will I be prepared for the AP exam in May?

Yes.  Your chances of passing the exam are vastly improved by 
your practicing the necessary skills in an organized, timely,and 
consistent manner.  You will probably believe that there are too 
many timed writings to complete in this class, but experience 
shows that these are worthwhile.
preparation for the exam.

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How much work will be expected of me on a daily basis?

This is a very difficult question to answer because homework will 
vary from day to day.  My best estimate is one hour per day, 
minimum.  When a portfolio or major paper is due, you will spend 
more time.

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What are the most important skills for me to practice in this class?

Reading, writing, and critical thinking are ALL important.  Since 
all of these skills work together, you won't get better at one of 
them without affecting the others.

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How will this year's AP exam be different from those in the past?

The difference will not be that great.  In one of the three 
required essays, you will be given evidence to use, much like in 
the DBQ in history classes.

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How is the AP exam evaluated?

Your AP score (from 1-5) is based 55% on the three timed 
writings, and 45% on the 50-60 multiple choice questons.  If you 
answer just 50% of the multiple choice questions correctly and 
score "6" on the essays, you will receive a passing score.

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How do I know that this is a sufficiently rigorous and challenging AP course?

The College Board has asked every AP teacher in the nation to 
submit an audit, which includes a course syllabus and supporting 
evidence, for review by a panel of experts.  This panel and the 
results of their audit determine whether the course is "AP 
level."  A course may only bedesignated AP if the teacher has 
received approval from the College Board.  Every 
teacher at Maryknoll has "passed" the audit and been approved by 
the College Board.

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How can I be successful in this course, and on the AP exam?

Of course, there are no guarantees, but your desire to do well,in 
both the course and on the exam, will do more than anything to 
ensure your success. 
Good Luck!

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