Advanced Placement at Century H.S.

Reaching the top of the mountain

Objectives

• • • Understand the advantages of taking an AP course.

Explain the expectations of the teachers, students, and parents.

Explain how Century is performing in the AP exams.

"Too many of our high school students graduate without the skills needed to succeed in college. As a result, 40 percent of students entering four-year colleges and universities require some remedial education. By exposing students to Advanced Placement coursework, we can ensure that every child leaves high school ready to tackle the challenges of higher education. By raising standards and expectations, our students will learn more, become better prepared for college and the workplace, and expand their intellectual horizons.“ - Margaret Spellings, Secretary of Education

Advanced Placement Report to the Nation 2005

Advantages of AP

• • • Students who take no AP courses will have a 33% chance of completing a BA/BS.

Students who take 1 AP course have a 59% chance of completing a BA/BS.

Students who take 2 or more AP courses have a 76% chance of completing a BA/BS.

U.S. Department of Education 1999

Advantages of AP Continued…

• The University of Texas study concluded that a score of 2 out of a possible 5 points on an AP exam correlates with better college performance than that achieved by students who did not take AP or who skipped the AP exam; however, colleges usually give credit only for scores of 3 or above. Also SAT/ACT scores are improved and graduating rates are higher.

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Washington Post

What will the teachers expect?

– A student that has achieved a B or better in prerequisite courses – A student that is excited about taking a challenging courses to increase their success during the freshman year of college – A student with the ability to analyze content, draw comparisons, and reason through problems – A student able to read perceptively and independently and write clear, concise essays – Student that has goals to pursue an AP Subject related field – Student that aims to earn AP credits toward college courses

What makes a student successful in AP courses?

– Academic Preparation – Disciplined work habits – Organization – Time management skills – Motivation

How is this course different than the honors classes my child has taken in the past?

– More challenging and stimulating – Preparation is the expectation • Majority of work is done outside of class, to prepare for in-class discussion – Take more time and require more work – Studying is an everyday assignment

What new behaviors will I see in my child when they take an AP course?

– You will see them working over the summer to prepare their foundation skills – You may see them struggle at the start of the course – You will see them devoting time to homework – You will see them getting extra help – You will see them and their friends organizing study sessions – You might even see them get excited about getting a B on a test

How can I assist my child with doing well in AP courses?

– Preparation for AP courses should begin early – Participate in college and AP planning with your child and their advisor, principal, or teacher – Help him or her schedule time wisely – Encourage and require strong study skills – Set up a good study atmosphere – Your support is important!

Century AP Data

• • Number of AP seats filled – 2008-2009 = 722 – 2009-2010 = 751 • Of the 456 tests given in 2008-2009, 68% pass rate.

Equity and Excellence 35% – The number of seniors who have taken and passed at least one test.

What Schools accept AP credit?

• The link below is to search prospective colleges and universities to see what specific scores and credit they offer and or accept. • http://collegesearch.collegeboard.com/apc reditpolicy/index.jsp

Questions?