Don’t Delay, Prepare Today!
By: Alicia Cruz
“The pressure is on to pass A.P. exams, but with enough motivation, you can fly by them all.”
A.P. exams are now three months away. Are you prepared to show off what you’ve studied for this whole year in just three short hours? Many students at L.A. High have gone through this journey more than once, while others are experiencing it for the first time.
Before you take the exams, it is important to understand the grading scale. The scores vary from 1, being the lowest, to 5, being the highest. In order to get a passing score you must earn a 3 or above. There are many perks that come with receiving a passing score. For example, you may save yourself tons of money by receiving college credit for each test you pass.
It is also important to understand how each test is individually graded. All tests have multiple- choice sections and short-answer questions, but some also have essays to write. By knowing exactly what you will have to do, you will have time to prepare yourself for however many A.P. exams you are taking. Although each A.P. exam varies, here are preparation tips that can apply to any A.P. exam you take.
Advice from past A.P. Test takers:
“Don't stress too much about it, you know. The more you worry the more you second guess yourself. Study moderately and relax heavily the day before”
-Alex Escobar, Taken 2 A.P. Exams
“Remember to relax and study. Figure out how to pace yourself [during the test]”
-Jeanelle Lopez, Taken 3 A.P. Exams
“Relax. When taking the exams relax. Prior to taking it make sure to study. Not intensive studying, but small chunks of material. Create study groups amongst peers. The morning of, have coffee and bring a snack that will relieve the nerves. If you know you'll fail regardless, just try, a 2 is better than a 1”
-Edwin Rios, Taken 3 A.P. Exams
“Study using the practice tests. It really helps!”
-Virginia Njenga, Taken 4 A.P. Exams
“ Review any material you are unsure of and, of course, you shouldn't do that with only a week left before the tests. And also get plenty of sleep the night before a test. Don't stress yourself out too much... the tests aren't as imposing as they may seem.”
-Willie Contreras, Taken 4 A.P. Exams