AP Biology

Course Information

  • Level: 11th or 12th Grade

  • Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry

  • Carnegie Units: 1

  • Number of Grade Points: 5

  • Locations Offered: HLB, STHS

  • Course Code: 150307

Course Description

AP Biology is an introductory college-level biology course. Students cultivate their understanding of biology through inquiry-based investigations as they explore the following topics: evolution, cellular processes, energy and communication, genetics, information transfer, ecology, and interactions.

Skills Learned

  • Designing experiments and procedures to test a prediction or theory

  • Collecting and analyzing data

  • Interpreting data to draw conclusions

  • Developing and supporting a scientific claim with evidence

Lab Requirement

This course requires that 25 percent of the instructional time will be spent in hands-on laboratory work, with an emphasis on inquiry-based investigations that provide students with opportunities to apply the science practices. Note: Colleges may ask to see your lab notebooks and reports before granting you credit.

AP Exam

The AP Biology Exam will test your understanding of the biological concepts covered in the course units, as well as your ability to utilize the scientific method and analyze data. You are allowed to use a four-function calculator (with square root), scientific, or graphing functions throughout the exam. Students are permitted to use the AP Biology Equations and Formulas Sheet on the exam. This resource is available in Appendix A of the CED.

Exam Duration - 3 hours