How are AP Exams Scored

How are AP Exams Scored Students are often so wrapped up in performing well on an AP exam that they forget what the score actually means. AP exams are scored on a scale of 1-5, but the intricacies of how those scoresarrive at a particular number can be difficult to interpret, especially because scoring varies between exams. For students who are approaching their first AP exam, weve put together a guide on how AP exams are scoredto help you better understand your results. A breakdown of the AP exam score It has likely been emphasized to you that your score on an AP exam is importantbut why? First, it demonstrates your actual achievement on the exam and your knowledge of the subject. Perhaps more importantly, it helps postsecondary schools evaluate your readiness for certain subjects. It also doesnt hurt that a high score on the AP exam can mean you earn college credit before even being accepted to a college. Many colleges accept AP exam scores as being equivalent to introductory college coursework, allowing you to save money and time by advancing to different courses. You can earn a 1-5 score on an AP exam (a 5 being the best score), based on your performance on a weighted combination of multiple-choice and free-response questions. A score of five indicates that a student is extremely well qualified in a subject, while a score of one offers no recommendation for student advancement in a subject. A score of three is still qualified and means that you will likely advance (although it is up to your prospective college whether youll earn college credit for your score). The full meanings of each AP score are defined below: 5 = extremely well qualified 4 = well qualifiedthe minimum score many selective colleges require for college credit 3 = qualifiedgenerally considered as passing an AP exam (but will likely not qualify a student for college credit at a selective college) 2 = possibly qualified 1 = no recommendation Ultimately, students should check with schools they wish to apply to in order to verify the score they need to receive for advanced placement. [RELATED: 5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Taking an AP Course] AP exam scoring breakdown Each AP exam consists of a combination of multiple-choice and free-response questionsalthough, the type of free-response questions differ based on the test you take. For example, the free-response section of an AP U.S. History exam may involve a document-based essay, while the free-response section of an AP Calculus exam will involve solving complex problems. Exam Section How it is graded Multiple-choice Computer, typically accounting for 40-50% of total score Free-response College professors and experienced AP teachers, during annual AP reading in June Your multiple-choice and free-response scores are combined to determine your composite score. Your composite score is then translated into a five-point scale that is designed to ensure that the standards for a particular score are consistent from year to year (for example, that a 3 this year reflects the same quality of work as a score of 3 did last year). How to study for AP exams Each test will require a slightly different approach, as they have different requirements. Ultimately, the best way to study for any AP exam is to take the accompanying AP class, which will be specifically geared toward establishing the knowledge base for the subject. [RELATED: 4 Myths About AP Prep] Its also important to be very familiar with the AP exams structure and content before sitting down on test day. Seek out practice tests for the AP exam in your subjecttaking these in advance can help you adjust to the exams level of difficulty and pacing. Similarly, (if it applies to you), be sure to practice writing timed essays. Perhaps your AP tutor or AP teacher would grade a few of these practice essays against the standards of the actual exam. This is a great way to learn how to answer free-response questions on AP exams. There are previous versions of AP exam essay prompts available online, and this practice can make you more comfortable with articulating your ideas under a time constraint and on the fly. After youve completed your AP exam, youll be able to compare your scores to others in your area and also to the historical trend in scores for your subject test. In addition, youll be able to decide which schools you send them to (though a good score will translate well in every school). While the five-point scale approach to AP scores may seem complicated, each number corresponds directly with how many answers you answered correctly. Focus largely on performing well on your test and feeling prepared for test daythis can provide you with a confidence that is invaluable when testing. Any topics you want to know more about? Let us know! The Varsity Tutors Blog editors love hearing your feedback and opinions. Feel free to email us atblog@varsitytutors.com.

5 New Years Resolutions for Parents

5 New Year's Resolutions for Parents Parents can be a defining factor in their childs academic success, and the New Year is a great time to reflect on your habits. Checking in regularly with your student, celebrating their successes, and encouraging independence are just a few resolutions to consider setting in 2019. Keep reading to learn five New Years resolutions for parents. New Years resolution #1: set clear expectations and deadlines No matter their age, most students flourish with structure. Ensure that youre using clear and defined language when communicating expectations and deadlines to your child. For example: For younger students, establish a rule like, Homework must be completed before screen time. For older students, communicate clear expectations for grades, such as, Your GPA must remain above a 3.0. [RELATED: How Parents Can Help Students Setand AchieveAcademic Goals] New Years resolution #2: check in regularly Students also benefit from accountability. A daily check-in on homework and upcoming tests and projects is a great way to touch base with your child about schoolwork. Remind them of critical times, such as the end of a marking period. While older students may grumble, these check-ins are essential reminders and are helpful for keeping students on track. Additionally, winter break is a great time to check in with your children regarding their academic goals. Have an honest conversation about whats going well and what can be improved. Ask your older students what you can do to better support them in 2019. [RELATED: How Parents Can Help with Elementary Homework Challenges] New Years resolution #3: celebrate your childs successes Parents are often the reinforcers who ensure their children complete their work. However, parents also have the chance to truly celebrate their students successes. These celebrations are just as important as the reminders. Celebrations can be small things, such as positive words of encouragement, letting them choose the music on the way to school, or ice cream on a Friday night. New Years resolution #4: help your child be more proactive before stepping in Often, parents want to step in at the first sign of something going wrong for their children. By doing that, however, children lose crucial opportunities to navigate conflict and advocate for themselves. Support your child by giving them strategies to be more proactive. For example, if they dont understand the homework, encourage them to ask a friend. If they received less than stellar feedback on an essay, prompt them to set up a lunch meeting with their teacher to see how they can improve. Learning these skills now will serve them well in college and beyond. [RELATED: 4 Ways Parents Can Help High School Students Succeed] New Years resolution #5: set a good example All of these strategies are great, but if youre not truly implementing them, they will ring hollow for your very perceptive children. If youre encouraging your child to utilize good work habits, be sure to model these yourself. For example, running around the house before you leave for the day makes it difficult for your child to not do that as well. Perhaps you can both set out everything you need for the day the night before to ensure a calmer start to the day. Another idea might be to model task lists and calendar tracking. Your child will notice you making a to-do list for important projects and logging appointments on your calendar. That example may inspire them to do the same. Any topics you want to know more about? Let us know! The Varsity Tutors Blog editors love hearing your feedback and opinions. Feel free to email us at blog@varsitytutors.com.