1. Quick Guide to the 2017 AP Biology Exam

2. Basic Info
Section I: 90 minutes for 63 multiple-choice + 6 grid-in questions
50% of total score
Section II: Free-Response Questions
10 minute reading period to read/plan answers
80 minutes to write:
2 Long Free Response questions (~20 min each)
6 Short Free Response questions (~6 min each)

3. Content Big Ideas: Evolution
Cellular Processes: Energy & Communication
Genetics & Information Transfer
Interactions

4. Section I: Multiple-Choice & Grid-In Questions
Multiple Choice (63 questions)
Essential Knowledge + Science Practice
Requires more reading than in previous exams (paragraphs, diagrams, data analysis)
Grid-In (6 questions)
Integrate science and math skills
Calculate correct answer and bubble in the grid
Bring a four-function calculator (with square root) to use on the exam
A formula list will be provided for the exam

7. Multiple-Choice Strategies
Pacing is important! Give yourself about 1 min. per multiple-choice and about 3 min. per grid-in.
NO penalty for guessing!! Answer every question.
If calculations are required and more time is needed, skip it and come back to it later. (Make a mark in test booklet next to question to answer later.) Do the same with questions you can’t answer.
Lab-set questions are tedious. Skip the diagram/data, skim the question first, then go back to the diagram/data to seek the information.
Underline key words such as NOT or EXCEPT.

8. Multiple-Choice Strategies
Read each answer choice before making a final selection.
Use process of elimination! Cross out letters of incorrect choices in test booklet. Narrow it down.
If you absolutely don’t know it, GUESS! Don’t leave anything blank!
If you finish early, go back over as many items as possible to catch careless errors.

9. Free-Response Questions
During 10-minute reading period:
Skim each question
Identify which is easiest  hardest
Organize thoughts and outline essays on sheet provided
Circle or underline KEY WORDS
Be sure to address each directive listed. (eg. analyze, compare, contrast, describe, design, explain)

10. Free-Response Questions
If there are several parts, answer in sequence.
Write an essay! No bullet points or outlines.
Diagrams: Label them!
Calculations: Show your work and each step! Remember UNITS.
“Buzz words”: Define or describe them!
If you can’t remember a term, describe/define it.
Don’t leave any part of essay blank. Each point is worth 2X a multiple-choice point.
If time allows, proofread your essays!
Be kind to Readers: use good handwriting

11. On test day: Arrive early! (30 minutes before start time.)
Eat a good, nutritious breakfast!!
Bring a photo ID.
2+ sharpened #2 pencils + clean eraser
2 black/dark blue ballpoint pens for essay
Bring a watch.
Also, NO books, notes, laptops, cameras, cell phones