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How to Train to Teach AP Biology

The guidelines for becoming an Advanced Placement (AP) teacher allow educators a lot of flexibility. High school teachers already have a college degree and/or license in their chosen subject area, so the assumption is that they are qualified to teach AP-level work. As AP teachers, educators are simply asked to continue coursework in their field of study and attend professional development opportunities for improving instruction. The College Board, which runs the AP program, has sponsored such workshops for both future and current AP teachers.

Things You'll Need

  • valid teacher certification
  • registration fee
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Instructions

    • 1

      Have valid teacher certification in high school biology, science, or equivalent field according to your state certification requirements. Gain some experience teaching high school-level biology or a related course in order to have familiarity with the course before moving on to teach an advanced version.

    • 2

      Check with school administrators, district curriculum officials, or a department chairperson to see if your district has its own guidelines for who can teach AP. For example, AP courses may be limited to teachers with tenure or a certain amount of experience.

    • 3

      Sign up to attend one of the College Board's official AP workshops. Choose a one-day workshop during the school year or a summer workshop for a weeklong experience, depending on your schedule. Ask your principal about stipend money that may be available to cover registration and/or travel costs and fill out any necessary paperwork to secure funding.

    • 4

      Attend the workshop. Bring copies of materials currently being used in your school's AP course, if any. Review essential topics to be covered on the AP examination and become familiar with the format of the test. Take note of any printed and online resources presented to you during the seminar that will help with future lesson plan creation and delivery.

    • 5

      Speak with fellow attendees to share insights into classroom management, content and other areas of concern. Share best practices to improve your style of instruction. Exchange contact information such as e-mail addresses in order to continue discussions.

    • 6

      Continue your professional development by following up on what you learned at the workshop and adding to your repertoire. Attend more workshops. Take part in the AP national conference or enroll in biology courses through your local college or university. Use these opportunities to expand your own knowledge and gain insight into educational practices for your classroom.

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