As the AP season quickly approaches, teachers are giving their students extra opportunities to get ahead and ensure they are prepared for their tests. With the first AP exam being on May 5, 2025, it is crucial to start studying, so teachers are offering extra test prep sessions. The information for when and where these test preps will be held can be found on the “Class of” Google Classroom, as well as advertised by certain teachers.
The first AP exams on May 5 will include AP Biology and AP Latin in the morning, followed by AP European History and AP Microeconomics in the afternoon. To aid students in preparing, the College Board has posted the full AP exam schedule on their website: apcentral.collegeboard.org. Students must know when their test is so that they have ample time to prepare.
Why Should You Attend Test Prep Sessions?
Students may wonder, “Why should I spend extra time after school studying for my AP tests when I could just study at home?” The answer is simple: These prep sessions are more than just a review; they offer opportunities to practice and perfect test-taking strategies in a supportive environment where teachers are right there for assistance. Many prep sessions are set up as mock exams, closely simulating the actual AP test experiences. This allows students to familiarize themselves with the test format so that on the actual day of the exam, they are not caught off guard. For example, AP English Language and Composition hosted a three-hour-long mock exam in the cafeteria, designed to be identical
to the real one. By participating, students can experience the set-up of the test, practice working under timed conditions, and build the mental stamina needed to handle the pressure of such a long exam.
In addition to mock exams, teachers may also provide sessions to review the material covered throughout the year. Mrs. Lawler, for example, holds weekly reviews in her classroom every Wednesday leading up to the exam. This extra help is beneficial to students because it allows them to relearn concepts from earlier on in the school year.
Not everyone will be able to make these after-school sessions, especially with sports, extracurriculars, and other outside-of-school commitments. However, this does not mean they cannot benefit from them, and there are still many ways for them to stay on top of their prepping. Those who can’t attend can simply ask a friend who did what was covered during the session. Reaching out to teachers is also a great way to gather extra materials and aid with studying.
Make the Most of These Opportunities
With just over a month left to review, it’s crucial for Mariners to make the most of every opportunity to prepare. These prep sessions are designed to help students succeed, so take advantage of them. Whether attending just a few sessions or every single one, these efforts will pay off when it comes down to the exams in May.
So, get ready, Mariners, AP season is nearly here, and it’s time to prepare. Make a plan, attend those preps, and stay focused. Good luck, and happy studying! As Mr. Ocean says, “Flashcards now, essays later, prep today, and thank me later!”