FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Q: What is AP?
AP stands for Advanced Placement. The content of the AP course is equivalent to a first-year university course. AP courses prepare students in grade 12 to write a standardized AP subject exam.
Q: I have never heard of “AP” before. What is the origin of Advanced Placement?
The College Board, a non-profit U.S. organization, has run the AP program since 1955. Advanced Placement now delivers 37 courses in over 114 countries. The College Board is also the organization that delivers SAT and PSAT exams.
Q: What is Pre-AP at SJAM?
Pre-AP stands for “Pre-Advanced Placement”. The Pre-AP program at SJAM is a powerful enrichment opportunity to help students acquire the knowledge, concepts, and skills needed to engage in a higher level of learning. Pre-AP extends the current curriculum and enriches specific learning outcomes. Pre-AP prepares students in grades 9 to 11 for success in future senior AP courses.
Q: What courses are offered?
SJAM is currently reviewing our AP program, including course offerings. All offerings are subject to change, pending student interest, strength of applicant pool, and timetabling restrictions.
Grade 9 Pre-AP: Math, Science, *English
Grade 10 Pre-AP: Math, Science, *English
Grade 11 Pre-AP: Math, Chemistry, *Biology, Physics, *English
Grade 12: Pre-AP Advanced Functions, AP Calculus, AP, Chemistry, AP Physics, *AP Biology, *AP English
*pending interest in 2020-21
Q: Who is most suitable for Pre-AP/AP courses?
AP stands for Advanced Placement. The content of the AP course is equivalent to a first-year university course. AP courses prepare students in grade 12 to write a standardized AP subject exam.
Q: I have never heard of “AP” before. What is the origin of Advanced Placement?
The College Board, a non-profit U.S. organization, has run the AP program since 1955. Advanced Placement now delivers 37 courses in over 114 countries. The College Board is also the organization that delivers SAT and PSAT exams.
Q: What is Pre-AP at SJAM?
Pre-AP stands for “Pre-Advanced Placement”. The Pre-AP program at SJAM is a powerful enrichment opportunity to help students acquire the knowledge, concepts, and skills needed to engage in a higher level of learning. Pre-AP extends the current curriculum and enriches specific learning outcomes. Pre-AP prepares students in grades 9 to 11 for success in future senior AP courses.
Q: What courses are offered?
SJAM is currently reviewing our AP program, including course offerings. All offerings are subject to change, pending student interest, strength of applicant pool, and timetabling restrictions.
Grade 9 Pre-AP: Math, Science, *English
Grade 10 Pre-AP: Math, Science, *English
Grade 11 Pre-AP: Math, Chemistry, *Biology, Physics, *English
Grade 12: Pre-AP Advanced Functions, AP Calculus, AP, Chemistry, AP Physics, *AP Biology, *AP English
*pending interest in 2020-21
Q: Who is most suitable for Pre-AP/AP courses?
- Do you have a passion for learning?
- Are you highly motivated?
- Do your grades reflect superior academic potential? (recommended minimum achievement of 85% in the chosen subject area)
- Do you like to be intellectually challenged?
- Are you creative?
- Do you have critical thinking skills?
- Do you have an excellent attendance record?
- Do you complete assignments accurately and on time?
- Do you have strong organizational and time management skills?
- Are you capable of handling an accelerated pace of learning?
- Do you work well independently AND in a group as a leader
Q: How does a student enroll in a Pre-AP or AP course?
Potential Pre-AP/AP students select ACADEMIC level courses in MY WAY at course selection time. All potential students complete the application form which is available on the SJAM website. Students are accepted to Pre-AP/AP courses based on a review of their academic history by the SJAM Admission Committee. Parents will be notified by email of their acceptance .
*Note: Acceptance into Pre-AP is for a one year term; applications are reviewed annually.
Q: What grades do I need to take Pre-AP/AP courses?
Grade 8 students entering high school should have at least 85% in each strand of the Pre-AP subject they wish to pursue. Learning skills should be above satisfactory and comments must reflect a responsible learner. Current SJAM students should complete math contests to be considered.
Q: What does a Pre-AP or AP course look like?
According to the College Board Advanced Placement Program, Pre-AP Curriculum is one that is different in pace, depth, breadth, and/or complexity. AP course syllabi are audited annually by the College Board.
· Differing pace means moving through the content at a more rapid pace. For example, Grade 9 Pre-AP math would also include Grade 10 Polynomials and Factoring and Grade 10 Linear Systems.
· Differing depth means investigating layers within a discipline through patterns, unanswered questions, and ethical considerations. Grade 10 Pre-AP Science students could use their understanding of the properties of chemical substances and their reactions to analyse the health impact of various industrial processes (e.g., pulp and paper production, mining) on local populations.
· Differing breadth means extending the content through higher-order thinking activities. Pre-AP science students could complete a science fair project or visit the Perimeter Institute.
· Differing complexity means seeing relationships between ideas within a topic and discipline. A Pre-AP English student could be studying an additional novel and examining relationships from multiple points of view.
Q: What are the benefits of taking an AP course and writing the AP exam?
The Advanced Placement Program enables students to pursue university-level studies while still in high school. Based on their performance on rigorous AP exams, students can earn credit, advanced placement, or both, in university. From a practical perspective, this allows a student to save time, save money, enroll in higher-level coursework, and perhaps pursue a double-major. On a personal level, a student can gain confidence in the ability to take on challenges, develop time management skills, and get a head start adapting to the challenges that come with university life.
Q: How are students assessed and evaluated in Pre-AP and AP courses?
All students are taught the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum. Pre-AP and AP students write the same final exam as students taking the corresponding Academic level course. The summative part of the course (assignments, tests, quizzes) will reflect Academic or University level and Pre-AP/AP content.
Q: Should students expect a lower grade in Pre-AP and AP because it is more challenging?
No. A true Pre-AP/AP student will have grades that are consistent with his/her previous academic performance. Any dramatic change in grade is a strong indicator that a student is better suited for a different stream of study.
Q: Can a student take a Pre-AP course in grade 10 even if he/she did not take Pre-AP in grade nine?
At this time, students can enter and exit the Pre-AP program at any academic year. Upon acceptance to a Pre-AP or AP course, a student may be asked to complete missed content through self-study prior to the start of the course. This requirement varies by subject .
Q: If the Pre-AP course is too hard, can a student switch to the Academic course?
The SJAM Admission Committee reviews each application carefully to ensure suitability for the program. Waitlists can form for certain courses, so it is preferable that a student commit to completing the scheduled course. If a student is questioning his or her ability to complete the course, they should speak to a guidance counselor as soon as possible. Changing a timetable is subject to availability of room in other classes and is never guaranteed.
Q: Can a student take the grade 12 AP course but not write the AP exam?
Yes. However, students are encouraged to complete the AP program by writing the exam. Writing the exam can be a great experience for students who are preparing for university.
Q: Can a student write an AP exam without taking an AP course?
Yes. Students can self-study and write an AP exam. Some universities require the AP course be completed along with the exam to receive advanced credit. Students considering study in the U.S. usually write exams in grade 11.
Q: If a student completes Enriched French (FSF4UX), will he/she be prepared to write the AP French exam?
Students in Enriched French can write the DELF (diplôme d’études en langue française) exam at a B2 level. The opportunity is also offered to students in FSF4UI at the B1 level. For more information visit http://delf-dalf.ambafrance-ca.org/en/ .
Q: When and where are the exams written?
AP exams are written in the spring (May) at SJAM. AP courses in grade 12 are scheduled for the first semester to allow students time to cover the AP exam content prior to writing the exam in the spring. Students writing exams must commit with payment (approx. $130 Cdn per exam) by early October.
Q: What score is necessary for university credit or advanced placement?
All decisions regarding credit and/or placement are made by the student's college or university, and the policy often varies between academic departments. Most will require a score of 4 or 5 on the final AP exam. Universities can also limit how many AP courses can be used for transfer credit.
AP exams are scored on a 1 to 5 scale as follows:
5 – Extremely well qualified (A+)
4 – Well qualified
3 – Qualified
2 – Possibly qualified
1 – No recommendation
Q: How will a university know if a student has taken a grade 12 AP course or exam? When will they see my exam result?
Students should consult with individual universities to see how AP courses and exam results will be used. NOTE: University of Waterloo does not use AP in admission decisions (as per information provided by the Associate Registrar, Oct 2020). Students could utilize “Additional Information Forms” during the application process to draw attention to their rigorous academic history. Students who wish to use AP exam results for university credit must arrange to have their results sent to the university from the College Board. AP exam results are made available in July.
Q: How will professional organizations treat the AP courses if a student chooses to use the results for university credit?
Students should always check with professional governing bodies (i.e. P.Eng., CPA) to make sure the AP course is accepted. Unless a student is absolutely certain of a career path, it is often advised that a student take the equivalent university course and complete it with confidence and excellent standing.
Potential Pre-AP/AP students select ACADEMIC level courses in MY WAY at course selection time. All potential students complete the application form which is available on the SJAM website. Students are accepted to Pre-AP/AP courses based on a review of their academic history by the SJAM Admission Committee. Parents will be notified by email of their acceptance .
*Note: Acceptance into Pre-AP is for a one year term; applications are reviewed annually.
Q: What grades do I need to take Pre-AP/AP courses?
Grade 8 students entering high school should have at least 85% in each strand of the Pre-AP subject they wish to pursue. Learning skills should be above satisfactory and comments must reflect a responsible learner. Current SJAM students should complete math contests to be considered.
Q: What does a Pre-AP or AP course look like?
According to the College Board Advanced Placement Program, Pre-AP Curriculum is one that is different in pace, depth, breadth, and/or complexity. AP course syllabi are audited annually by the College Board.
· Differing pace means moving through the content at a more rapid pace. For example, Grade 9 Pre-AP math would also include Grade 10 Polynomials and Factoring and Grade 10 Linear Systems.
· Differing depth means investigating layers within a discipline through patterns, unanswered questions, and ethical considerations. Grade 10 Pre-AP Science students could use their understanding of the properties of chemical substances and their reactions to analyse the health impact of various industrial processes (e.g., pulp and paper production, mining) on local populations.
· Differing breadth means extending the content through higher-order thinking activities. Pre-AP science students could complete a science fair project or visit the Perimeter Institute.
· Differing complexity means seeing relationships between ideas within a topic and discipline. A Pre-AP English student could be studying an additional novel and examining relationships from multiple points of view.
Q: What are the benefits of taking an AP course and writing the AP exam?
The Advanced Placement Program enables students to pursue university-level studies while still in high school. Based on their performance on rigorous AP exams, students can earn credit, advanced placement, or both, in university. From a practical perspective, this allows a student to save time, save money, enroll in higher-level coursework, and perhaps pursue a double-major. On a personal level, a student can gain confidence in the ability to take on challenges, develop time management skills, and get a head start adapting to the challenges that come with university life.
Q: How are students assessed and evaluated in Pre-AP and AP courses?
All students are taught the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum. Pre-AP and AP students write the same final exam as students taking the corresponding Academic level course. The summative part of the course (assignments, tests, quizzes) will reflect Academic or University level and Pre-AP/AP content.
Q: Should students expect a lower grade in Pre-AP and AP because it is more challenging?
No. A true Pre-AP/AP student will have grades that are consistent with his/her previous academic performance. Any dramatic change in grade is a strong indicator that a student is better suited for a different stream of study.
Q: Can a student take a Pre-AP course in grade 10 even if he/she did not take Pre-AP in grade nine?
At this time, students can enter and exit the Pre-AP program at any academic year. Upon acceptance to a Pre-AP or AP course, a student may be asked to complete missed content through self-study prior to the start of the course. This requirement varies by subject .
Q: If the Pre-AP course is too hard, can a student switch to the Academic course?
The SJAM Admission Committee reviews each application carefully to ensure suitability for the program. Waitlists can form for certain courses, so it is preferable that a student commit to completing the scheduled course. If a student is questioning his or her ability to complete the course, they should speak to a guidance counselor as soon as possible. Changing a timetable is subject to availability of room in other classes and is never guaranteed.
Q: Can a student take the grade 12 AP course but not write the AP exam?
Yes. However, students are encouraged to complete the AP program by writing the exam. Writing the exam can be a great experience for students who are preparing for university.
Q: Can a student write an AP exam without taking an AP course?
Yes. Students can self-study and write an AP exam. Some universities require the AP course be completed along with the exam to receive advanced credit. Students considering study in the U.S. usually write exams in grade 11.
Q: If a student completes Enriched French (FSF4UX), will he/she be prepared to write the AP French exam?
Students in Enriched French can write the DELF (diplôme d’études en langue française) exam at a B2 level. The opportunity is also offered to students in FSF4UI at the B1 level. For more information visit http://delf-dalf.ambafrance-ca.org/en/ .
Q: When and where are the exams written?
AP exams are written in the spring (May) at SJAM. AP courses in grade 12 are scheduled for the first semester to allow students time to cover the AP exam content prior to writing the exam in the spring. Students writing exams must commit with payment (approx. $130 Cdn per exam) by early October.
Q: What score is necessary for university credit or advanced placement?
All decisions regarding credit and/or placement are made by the student's college or university, and the policy often varies between academic departments. Most will require a score of 4 or 5 on the final AP exam. Universities can also limit how many AP courses can be used for transfer credit.
AP exams are scored on a 1 to 5 scale as follows:
5 – Extremely well qualified (A+)
4 – Well qualified
3 – Qualified
2 – Possibly qualified
1 – No recommendation
Q: How will a university know if a student has taken a grade 12 AP course or exam? When will they see my exam result?
Students should consult with individual universities to see how AP courses and exam results will be used. NOTE: University of Waterloo does not use AP in admission decisions (as per information provided by the Associate Registrar, Oct 2020). Students could utilize “Additional Information Forms” during the application process to draw attention to their rigorous academic history. Students who wish to use AP exam results for university credit must arrange to have their results sent to the university from the College Board. AP exam results are made available in July.
Q: How will professional organizations treat the AP courses if a student chooses to use the results for university credit?
Students should always check with professional governing bodies (i.e. P.Eng., CPA) to make sure the AP course is accepted. Unless a student is absolutely certain of a career path, it is often advised that a student take the equivalent university course and complete it with confidence and excellent standing.