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The Art of Advanced Placement

17 October 2022
Neve M, Hope ‘23
Brentwood academics are vigorous and highly esteemed. No matter the class, or the level, all academics aim to educate and develop young minds. Post-secondary education is sought out by most Brentwood and we are lucky to have a plethora of Advanced Placement courses - 20 in fact - to help prepare us.

What is an AP course?

When asked about their course load, one can expect most Brentwood students to be taking at least one AP class whether it is AP Environmental Science, AP Chemistry, or any other captivating course. APs are offered throughout all grades, usually starting as early as Grade 10.

AP stands for Advanced Placement, high school courses in which college-level content and examinations are provided. In an AP class, the content for the AP exam is taught, then in May, the exam occurs. The exams are marked out of five, and a three or above is a pass.

The AP program was created by College Board, an American program. It is offered internationally and most universities worldwide acknowledge this credit. APs are significant when thinking about universities, not only boosting your applications with evidence of advanced learning, but also supplying you with college credit in some cases. Passing an exam with a score of three or over can earn you credit.

Many schools in Canada do not include AP courses within their curriculum, but Brentwood does. Ms Murtland describes the importance of AP courses, specifically, at Brentwood: “The AP program provides the opportunity for Brentwood students to challenge themselves with courses that are faster paced and contain material that allows for an easier transition to post-secondary studies. Many of the courses are able to introduce students to what they will experience in a first-year university or college course. In some cases, students can report their exam result to earn credit for a first-year course and then move directly into second-year level courses in that subject.”

The academic environment at Brentwood would not be the same without APs. Vigorous courses produce many benefits, and students are aware of this: some dedicate themselves to multiple AP courses, which is a challenging feat.

“I’ve always been a fan of AP courses here at Brentwood. They are academically challenging and time-consuming, but the benefits are worth it. I am in four AP courses this year, as well some as last year. It has been a hard journey, but I would never be where I am today without APs. They are my ticket to the universities I’ve always wanted to attend. It is amazing that Brentwood provides me with that opportunity”, stated Felicity B, Hope ‘23.

It is true that taking an AP course is an opportunity, not a burden. With an AP course, academics can open up in a way never seen before, all while providing you with generous benefits.

Make the most of the APs at Brentwood!

Neve M, Hope ‘23

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