Advanced Placement classes are becoming a big part of the high school experience at AGHS, offering students the chance to challenge themselves and earn college credit. AP teachers prioritize making sure their students can succeed and pass the AP test.
There are currently 18 AP classes on campus: AP European History, AP U.S. History, AP Gov, AP Statistics, AP Calculus, AP Pre-calculus, AP Environmental Science, AP Chemistry, AP Bio, AP Lang, AP Lit, and more.
According to James Carter, head of the AP department, Some classes are favored more than others.
“[The most popular] AP Classes are English [language] Composition and English Literature, AP U.S. History, and this year AP Pre-Calculus,” Carter said.
One of the bigger benefits of taking AP classes is the opportunity to prepare for college-level work. Teachers emphasize that these courses help students develop important skills such as critical thinking, reading, writing, and study habits. If a lot of students experience a more rigorous workload while still in high school, it will mirror the college experience they are preparing for.
Teachers also highlighted the importance of finding effective study tools, since there’s no best way to study for AP exams. What works for one student may not work for another. Some students benefit from reviewing videos, while others prefer class notes, practice exams, or test prep books. Many teachers also provide extra support, such as review sessions, practice exams, and online resources, through platforms such as Google Classroom.
“There are a lot of study tools for AP Statistics (probably true for other courses as well). I think the best study tool is whatever works best for the individual student,” AP Stats Teacher Joseph Warrick said.
AP tests have been highly successful at Arroyo Grande High School.
“Last year, 86% of students passed their AP test with a 3 or higher,” Carter said.
A lot of teachers feel very strongly about the AP course they teach. They believe that their course should be taken by many to improve their social skills, their work ethic, and to prepare them for college and the real world.
“I really think everyone should take this class. It helps students understand the world around them and how humans impact it. As future voters, they’ll face decisions about things like climate policy, energy, and pollution. These are all topics we cover. I believe a lack of science literacy is behind a lot of the challenges we see today,” AP Environmental Science teacher Katie Boos said.
Taking AP courses at AGHS is common for student college prep. It’s recommended by a lot of staff on campus to take as many AP courses as possible.
