Advanced Placement
What is Advanced Placement (AP)?
“Advanced Placement” (AP) is a program of college-level courses offered PGHS. Courses are available in many subject areas, including English, history, humanities, languages, math, psychology, and science. The focus is not on memorizing facts and figures. It's on engaging discussions, approaching and solving problems together, and learning to write well. You'll get to study fascinating topics and ideas. Who knows? One (or more!) might just become the foundation of your future college major or career.
What are the benefits of taking AP courses?
Students demonstrate scholarship at national and international levels. AP courses allow students to compare their knowledge and understanding of a college-level subject with the high academic standards established by college faculty.
Students study in greater depth. Students who take Honors/AP courses learn a subject in-depth, develop analytical reasoning skills and form disciplined study habits that can contribute to continued success at the college level.
Students improve their chances of being admitted to the college/university of their choice. College admissions officers view Honors/AP experience as one indicator of future success at the college level.
Students are often exempted from introductory courses at college. Course exemption, based on success on an AP exam, gives students time to broaden their college experience.
Students are eligible for AP Scholar Awards. The AP Program offers several prestigious awards to recognize high school students who demonstrate college-level achievement on AP exams.
Students may be granted advanced standing in college. Students who earn scores of 3, 4, or 5 on AP exams may be granted course credits by their college/university.
Who can participate in the Honors/AP Program at Pleasant Grove High School?
All students at Pleasant Grove High School may participate in any AP and Honors courses of their choosing. Participation is based on a student's individual motivation and drive to meet the academic standards of the program.
Honors/AP classes are very demanding in terms of time and effort; if students are considering taking more than three Honors/AP classes next year, they are advised to consult with their counselor before doing so.
How do students enroll in Honors and AP classes?
Just sign up during course selection! Some AP classes have prerequisites but most do not. You can check if a class has a prerequisite by looking in the course catalog. Some courses also offer summer enrichment work.
Students who enroll in AP classes are expected to take the AP exams in May. The commitment to Honors/AP classes is for the entire academic year.