Preparing Students for Advanced Placement Biology, An Introduction.
This intensive course for teachers (with an emphasis for experienced teachers), will focus on the newly redesigned AP Biology curriculum. Primary topics to be discussed will be the new reconstruction of the exam to be instituted in the 2020 exam. We will examine how the Science Practices and Four Big Ideas are now woven through eight units of Essential Knowledge and how the existing redesigned curriculum has been reconstructed for the 2020 exam. The lab component will focus on inquiry and labs from the College Board’s newly redesigned lab manual. Participants will also learn how to modify traditional experiments into inquiry-based models. Additional topics will include the integration of biotechnology, experimental design and technology into the AP Biology course; including how to use Vernier’s probeware in some of the labs. Participants will learn how to prep the labs, to perform the labs and how to analyze the results. Biotechnology labs that may be included are BioRad’s pGLO transformation lab and MiniOne’s pcr and gel electrophoresis.
We will also examine the new AP Biology exam design, and essay grading approaches. Teachers will learn how to write questions in the new style of the revised AP exam. In support of the AP Audit requirements, participants will begin to develop an AP Biology syllabus specific to their needs, in addition to our daily laboratory investigations, and data analysis work. Participants should bring a calculator, flash drive, and digital camera.
Participants should spend some time reviewing the new curriculum at AP Central prior to attending the institute. This is a free download and can be found at: http://advancesinap.collegeboard.org/science/biology.
The faculty have been selected for their teaching expertise, creativity, innovations in teaching and experience with the AP* Program curriculum. All faculty members are endorsed and certified by the Middle Atlantic Regional Office of The College Board and have demonstrated a commitment to excellence that is second to none.
Classes are scheduled from Tuesday - Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Class check-in begins at 7 a.m. with as brief orientation at 7:20 a.m.
Participants receive a catered lunch at a waterfront restaurant each day.
Morning and afternoon coffee/snack breaks are provided each day.
Instructors encourage sharing among participants that will enhance the knowledgeand skills of all participants for effective teaching. The opportunity to exchange and communicate with instructors and colleagues within the Middle Atlantic Region and beyond is a valued support resource for the entire school year.
Questions/concerns about your particular course can be addressed by going to course description and clicking on the instructor’s name. You will then be able to e-mail the instructor. Any problems call the Lewes Summer Institute office at 302-644-0277.