Advanced Placement Program
The Advanced Placement (AP) program is run by The College Board, a non-profit organization, since 1955. It offers a wide variety of rigorous, analytical and challenging college preparatory courses. Depending on performance, candidates can earn worldwide university credit (AP credit policy). The design, delivery and assessment in these courses offer a unique learning experience as it enables students to gain deep understanding of the subject, to develop advanced skills in writing and problem solving and to become actively involved in the teaching process.
The program consists of 33 courses from which a student can choose, provided the courses are offered at the school. ACS Athens will offer the following AP courses in the academic year 2012-2013:
- AP Calculus
- AP English Literature
- AP Chemistry
- AP Environmental Science
- AP Spanish
Courses run for one year, at the end of which, students take external standardized tests provided by the College Board and administered by the licensed school. The short duration of the AP courses compared to those of the IB, allows the students to design their own unique program which best fits their student profile and academic plans. In many instances, such programs have been proven to be more effective and timely for a great number of students.
Students receive a certificate for each AP course they complete. For each AP exam the student takes, the College Board awards various certificates and awards, one of which is the AP International Diploma.
AP course can help students acquire skills and habits necessary for success in college. The rigor and advanced level of these courses make the AP program widely accepted to universities and colleges around the world.
Benefits of the AP program:
- College credit depending on score
- Intense discussions
- Solving problems collaboratively
- Learning how to write clearly and persuasively
- Improving writing skills
- Sharpening problem-solving abilities
- Developing time – management skills
- Discipline
- College level study habits
- Flexibility for the “best fit” student profile
- Worldwide recognition
Teaching strategies of AP courses at ACS Athens follow the educational philosophy of the school and student guidance for the selection of AP courses follows our holistic, meaningful and harmonious philosophy in education. Students and parents of ACS Athens are welcome to view a presentation where students around the world share their positive academic experience from AP courses.