Advanced Placement Classes Are Not For All

Binta Diallo, Kenny Situ STAFF WRITERS

Advanced Placement (AP) classes have been in high demand for years, due to the fact that many students believe taking them will increase their chances of college admission. Although many students wish to be enrolled in these AP classes, the sad truth is that not everyone is actually ready for the hard work required. These college level courses are competitive and require dedication, which is why entrance into an AP class should require an application and letters of recommendation instead of being based on Open Enrollment.
Taking an AP class and passing the test qualifies students for college credit, so student in these classes need to be capable of college-level work. They must adjust to a greater workload and standard. However, since these classes currently operate on a first come, first served system for enrollment, some students end up with more than one AP class, while others receive fewer than requested. This system is unfair because students with a higher dedication and better work ethic may not be able to join the class, whereas students who are actually enrolled may have no motives of fulfilling the requirements that come along with the challenging course.
If the enrollment in AP classes was based on performance and skill, the percentage of students actually excelling in these courses would increase, along with grades and test scores. In order to take an AP class, students should be required to speak to the teacher, submit a letter of recommendation and fill out an application. Thus, students that are focused on the course and are aware of its standards will be considered for enrollment.
Students should also consult with previous students that have taken a course and attend AP Parent Night before making a decision about the course. The class syllabus and year-long plan would provide incoming students an understanding of what sections will be covered and the grading system. This would prevent students from signing up for AP classes without prior knowledge of the expectations involved.
All in all, students should not be selected into AP classes using the open enrollment system. Instead, selection should be determined by past grades and even recommendations from past teachers. If a student has taken an Honors class, the teacher can refer students that he or she deems prepared for the next level course. This could also encourage students to focus on the long-term goal and plan out their high school curriculum; if a student desires a certain major, then the student will plan ahead and focus on AP courses that are relevant. As a result, the students who deserve it will be put in AP classes where they they will be motivated and learn more.