What is the best way to prepare for AP Biology?

Question

I really didn't expect to get AP biology because I was told you actually had to take normal Biology before taking AP Bio, which I haven't taken. So I'm sure I can handle it but I'm just a bit nervous.

Science is my absolute is my best subject but I'd like to make sure that I know what I should already know . Like the basic of Biology. Is there any websites that can help me? How about advice and tips? Also, do they give out tons of homework like the guidance counselors say? Is it just like Honors?

Answer 1

some colleges actually require you take a lower level bio class like bio 156, 181 or 182.  if you are strong in biology and aren't required to take them don't.  the class isn't that difficult.

Answer 2

I'm with Robert on this one, it's been a while for me but I got a 5 so I'll pass on my advice. An AP class is generally considered above Honors level so the amount of homework will be greater. However it affords you the opportunity to really prepare for college in terms of time management.

The best advice for an AP level class of any variety is to stay on top of your work. It's very easy (especially once you get to college) to assume you can finish something later rather than sooner. Once you get an assignment, read it thoroughly and you can assess how much time it will really require.

No one likes to be the kid in class who asks all the questions but if you don't understand something, chances are someone else doesn't either. Even if you're the only one who doesn't get it, you have just as much right to the teacher's time to help as your other classmates.

In conclusion: ask questions, do your homework and put in as much time as you can afford without it consuming your life.

Answer 3

It's been a while since I had AP Bio but if any of the same holds true this might help you out a lot.

Make an outline of every chapter your teacher plans on covering.  Make sure you write down key words and concepts, biology is literally the building of one concept onto another until you have a clear picture.  Your textbook should come with a website that has review tips and such, since you'll be using a College level course textbook the resources in the book should be a very valuable resource.

As for homework, you should expect it to be one of your more intense classes, and it'll be rough but if science is your best subject as you say, you'll be fine.

Some websites that will help you:

wikipedia.org <- great as an overview but not as a source

answers.yahoo.com <- as you already know

http://www.aw-bc.com/campbell/ <-Has an AP bio section

You may also want to consider picking up one of the AP Bio test review books, as those are a great source to be looking at before the test!