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 earn college 
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.

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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 be designated 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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