Arbor View High School Counseling

Arbor View High School offers 19 Advanced Placement (AP) courses. These courses are college level courses and the curriculum is designed and monitored by The College Board.   AP courses developed by College Board provide high school students with the opportunity to explore and engage in college level curriculum and materials.  Students in these courses are expected to participate in the Advanced Placement Testing Program implemented in May of each year. Students in these courses have the opportunity, through the Advanced Placement test results, to earn college credit for coursework completed in high school.  AP courses are rigorous and require students to develop and demonstrate the skills and knowledge necessary for success in post-secondary education.

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We believe that all college bound students should complete at least one Advanced Placement course prior to graduation from Arbor View High School.  AP courses can dramatically improve a student's chances of getting into college and be better prepared once he or she is there. Studies have shown that students who take AP courses and exams are much more likely to complete a bachelor's degree in four years or less. AP helps students improve their writing skills, learn problem-solving techniques, and develop rigorous study habits. After taking an AP course, students have the opportunity to take the corresponding AP Exam held each year in May, which, depending on their score, could earn them college credit and save them (and you!) time and money.

 

AP courses differ in content and intensity from most high school courses. Students should expect work that is similar to a freshman-level college course. Based on how students score on the College Board examination, many institutions will award college credit. But performing well on an AP Exam means more than just the successful completion of a course; it is the gateway to success in college.  Research consistently shows that students who score a 3 or higher typically experience greater academic success in college and higher graduation rates than their non-AP student peers.   Students are not required to take the associated College board AP exam to complete an Advanced Placement course; however, AVHS strongly encourages our students to do so.  In addition, College Board has authorized each course to use the AP course designation, and students will received a 0.50 weighted GPA for 4 semesters of AP Courses.  Additional courses will be weighted at .025 not to exceed 20 semesters.

 

Students and parents, therefore, should plan to enroll in Honors courses preceding Advanced Placement courses in the subject of interest. The student's guidance counselor is a valuable resource in this planning process.