Beyond Biology: Meeting College Requirements Through AP Success – Shellee Howard Talks with Michelle Pardue

Michelle Pardue’s Background

32 years teaching experience, 25 years teaching AP Biology

Chose teaching to inspire future medical researchers and practitioners

AP Biology Course Approach

Treats AP Bio like a sports season: “I’ve been prepping them all year to get ready for this test.”

Balances content delivery with test-prep strategies

Exam Focus Shift

Now emphasizes scientific thinking, data/graph interpretation, and time management

Multiple‑choice section: 60 lengthy questions in 90 minutes—practice under timed conditions is essential

Free‑response: requires concise, factual answers, not essay‑style writing

Key Study Resources

AP Classroom (College Board): videos, topic reviews, practice questions

AP prep books for targeted review (use early in study cycle to avoid burnout)

Peer‑to‑peer study groups to reinforce understanding

Strategies for Improvement

Identify and highlight FRQ command words (e.g., “describe,” “identify”)

Skim MCQs efficiently by knowing material—helps find answers faster

Time drills: simulate exam timing to build pacing skills

Parental Check‑In Questions

“Do you know the exam structure? (# MCQs, time limits, FRQ format)”

“Has your teacher taught test‑taking strategies?”

If the answer is no, consider supplemental tutoring or online resources

Tutoring & Support Offer

Zoom prep sessions for AP and regular biology students

Email: [email protected] to arrange one‑on‑one strategy and content reviews

Final Exam Tip

Expect to feel underprepared on test day—it’s designed that way. Stay calm and focused, and you’ll perform respectably.

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