By Kyle Shubert, Staff Writer
March 3, 2025
ROCKLAND- Students who take AP classes feel the courses have helped them be exposed to how college courses will be and have allowed them to work more independently.
AP stands for Advanced Placement. The difference between honors and AP classes is that AP classes go through topics a lot faster.
AP classes can help students get college credits if they do well on the national exam at the end of the year.
While taking AP classes helps students' GPAs, it also helps them put more effort into class.
“I firmly believe that a student will get out of a class whatever they put into it regardless of the level. However, with AP kids they are well prepared for larger writing assignments and projects,” stated AP Research and AP Seminar Teacher, Ms. Janyce Kemp.
Rockland High School offers students 15 different AP classes, such as Biology, Calculus, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology, Euro, Seminar, Research, Environmental, Microeconomics, and more.
This year 158 students are taking an AP class.
While taking these classes, students are exposed to what it will be like to take courses in college.
The AP scores have a significantly increased over the past few years.
“I think AP [Language] offers a lot of opportunities for learning new things and new skills. It makes kids into better writers,” said English teacher Mr. Sean Carney.
AP classes allow more room for students to be pushed into developing new skills.
“In some ways, it's the same, it's just very fast-paced compared to other classes, it's not so much more homework but you kind of have to understand things quicker and do things on your own to make sure you understand each topic,” explained junior Kiley Murdock.
Taking AP classes helps push students into different practices and study tips to ensure they understand the topic
While taking AP classes, the students must be well prepared for the tests and projects they will be responsible for.
“I give them the topics we are gonna cover and a study guide, and I will answer any questions,” said history teacher Ms. Ashley Lipson.
The teachers are also a main part of how the students get to learn. Whether they do an activity or study guide, the teachers need to allow students to understand the topics correctly so they can do well in class.