AP Bio Review

AP Biology (known also as Advanced Placement Biology) is the study of life and how it works. Students generally take this foundational course anytime in their high school years, preparing themselves for more advanced learning in health science and engineering later on. Passing the AP Biology exam can result in college credit — helping you to get a head start on your journey in higher education.

Read on to learn everything you need to know to master AP Biology with Apex Learning Virtual School.

Studying for the AP Biology Exam

Looking to do well on your high school AP Biology exam? Steer clear of ineffective content and books provided by third-party sellers and learn exactly what you need to know to pass with this helpful guide.

Understand the AP Bio Exam Format

The first step to success when it comes to mastering the AP Biology exam is to understand the format of the test you’ll be taking. The College Board is a great resource for this, and you can explore information about the two sections on their website.

Students can expect multiple choice and free response areas of the exam, both of which are to be completed in 90 minutes from the exam start. Students will be expected to answer questions, interpret experiment results, and complete analysis of visual models throughout the exam. Below, we’ve listed some strategies and areas of focus for parents and students to consider as exam season nears.

Review Past Exam Questions

Reviewing past exam questions through the College Board’s website or through similar question sources is a great way to prepare for your upcoming exam. You can find AP Test-adjacent multiple-choice questions via reputable books like Sterling Test Prep, the Princeton Review, and others at your local bookstore.

Develop Effective Study Habits

Everyone uses different strategies to learn material. It can be helpful to take time and determine what works for you, allowing yourself to experiment with different learning styles. If you’re not sure where to start, you can try using different techniques like flash cards, Cornell notes, and other methods, and taking practice tests; using empirical data to help you figure out what works best for you.

Use AP Biology Study Guides

There’s no shame in using AP Biology study guides to prepare for your study sessions. They often have topics and activities that can help you to study strategically, making your strategies much more efficient overall.

Leverage Online Resources

There are many helpful online resources to consider as you prepare for your AP Bio exam. For example, you can access test prep Kindle books through Amazon’s free Kindle app, all of which can be accessible across your smart devices. There are also many Amazon Book Clubs that cater to students, which can offer helpful resources to promote a healthy mindset and test taking skills before the day of the exam.

AP Biology Practice Exams

AP Biology practice exams can be especially useful as you work to improve your test scores.

You can access them on the College Board’s website.

AP Biology Exam Scoring

The AP Biology exam offers clearer scoring compared to other AP exams. You can see the most straightforward breakdown on the College Board’s site under the scoring section, which offers a point-by-point breakdown that contributes to students’ test scores.

While this may vary slightly for your specific exam, depending on the year that you test, you can safely assume that the regimen will remain similar — with both the multiple-choice questions and free response sections offering a cumulative weight of 50% of your exam score each.

After the test, students are graded on the traditional AP test scale, ranging from scores 1 to 5. 1 indicates “possibly qualified” and 5 indicates “extremely qualified.”.

Best Practices and Study Tips for the AP Bio Exam

Time Management Tips

We know that exam prep season can be very stressful. However, time management is one of the best tools in your arsenal when it comes to managing stress and crushing it on your test. Here are some time management tips to remember as you begin to ramp up your study schedule:

• Be committed. Whether you’re starting your study steps or you’re clocking out for a break, stick with it and stay as consistent as possible.

• Take breaks. While studying all night might seem like a good idea ahead of exam season, it isn’t. Your brain needs breaks to properly process the information you’re learning, so be sure to build them in. Not sure where to start? Try the Pomodoro method.

• Study with a friend. Having an accountability partner is always useful. Don’t be afraid to reach out for extra support as you prepare for the exam.

Managing Exam Stress

Exam stress can get to even the most prepared students. Don’t feel “weird” or as if you’re failing if you start to feel overwhelmed. Instead, speak to a trusted friend, adult, or mentor who can talk you through your fears. While the exam can feel like a major hurdle, you’re more than capable of excelling.

Optimizing Study Habits

Like we said above, everyone studies differently. You’ll be able to approach the test confidently if you find a set of habits that work well with your unique learning needs. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different study methods. If you’re not sure where to start, speak with your teacher. They can give you tailored advice based on their observations of you in the classroom.

In short: Exam season can be stressful, but you are more than capable of success. Don’t be afraid to reach out for accountability and support from trusted friends, parents, or teachers. They’re all there to help and cheer you on this exam season.

Overview of AP Biology Content

Sometimes a birds-eye view of class topics is the best way to start your class experience off strong. Here’s how your AP Bio class with Apex Learning Virtual School will flow:

Cell Biology

• Lesson 1: Cell Structure and Function. Students will start the class off learning basic information about how organisms function at a cellular level; preparing them for advanced placement biology topics like organelles, functionality, and more

• Lesson 2: Cell Membrane Structure and Function. Cellular membrane structure is one of the most important elements of a cell. Students will learn the design and function of this component in their second class lesson, as well as key points of knowledge relating to the cell cycle.

• Lesson 3: Cell Biology Wrap-Up.

Protein Structure and Functions

• Lesson 1: Protein Structure, Function, and Synthesis. Students will explore questions and discussion around how our cells function; covering key topics like protein synthesis and the related, facilitating structures.

• Lesson 2: Natural Selection and Speciation. Evolutionary concepts are discussed in this lesson, exploring the process of natural selection and speciation in the context of human existence.

• Lesson 3: Protein Structure and Function Wrap-Up.

Historical Perspective on Evolution

• Lesson 1: Earth’s History. After spending some time in an “up-close-and-personal” view of the body, students will prepare for evolution-related questions on the AP exam. The unit begins with a brief lesson of earth’s history and the start of humanity.

• Lesson 2: Evolutionary Relationships. Students will explore evolutionary relationships that are theorized to contribute to humanity’s genetic diversity; exploring details from Charles Darwin’s theories and other examples of evolution in global ecology.

• Lesson 3: A Historical Perspective on the Evidence for Evolution Wrap-Up.

Mechanisms of Inheritance

• Lesson 1: Cell Reproduction. As they kick off this unit, students will explore material related to cellular reproduction and the continuity of life.

• Lesson 2: Genetics and Gene Expression. DNA, nuclear function and structure, and nucleic acids will all be discussed in this lesson; placed in the context of genetics and gene expression across generations.

• Lesson 3: Mechanisms of Inheritance Wrap-Up.

Semester 1 Exam

• Lesson 1: Semester 1 Exam. Students will enjoy a cumulative test to help them prepare for both free response questions and multiple choice questions on the AP Biology AP Exam. Students will be offered supportive study material and a comprehensive study guide to help them succeed.

Homeostasis

• Lesson 1: Introduction to Metabolism and Homeostasis. Students will explore what keeps a biological organism stable. They’ll also learn what metabolism is and how it functions.

• Lesson 2: Adaptations, Behavior, and Learning. Calling back to our unit on evolution, students will explore how adaptation and behavioral changes apply as life continues.

• Lesson 3: Homeostasis Wrap-Up.

Cellular Energetics

• Lesson 1: Understanding Photosynthesis. All living things need energy. To kick off this section, students will explore the role of photosynthesis in plant cells.

• Lesson 2: Understanding Cellular Respiration. In this section, students will explore short-order questions and content related to cellular respiration; or the process of creating energy in the body.

• Lesson 3: Cellular Energetics Wrap-Up.

Cell Communication and Body Systems

• Lesson 1: Integrating Cell Communication and the Immune System. In this lesson, students will explore how cells communicate with each other and in immune functions.

• Lesson 2: Cell Signaling in the Nervous and Endocrine Systems. Building on concepts from prior lessons, students will explore signaling in nervous and endocrine system functions.

• Lesson 3: Cell Communication and Body Systems Wrap-Up.

Ecological Principles

• Lesson 1: Organisms and Populations in Their Environment. After learning about different elements of biology in the micro- and human-levels, students will explore the greater ecological picture of life.

• Lesson 2: Ecological Communities. Building on information from prior lessons, students will explore biology in the context of an ecological community.

• Lesson 3: Ecological Principles Wrap-Up.

Semester 2 Exam

• Lesson 1: Semester 2 Exam. Students will take a cumulative test to help them prepare for both free response questions and multiple choice questions on the AP Biology Exam. Students will be offered supportive study material and a comprehensive study guide to help them succeed.

Frequently Asked Questions About AP Bio

Is AP Bio the hardest AP class?

Different students find different classes difficult. That being said, there is no universally defined “hardest AP class.” If you find that AP Bio is difficult for you, consider reaching out to a teacher to ask about support options that can help. For example, you might benefit from a peer tutor that can dig deeper with you on certain concepts.

What topics are covered in the AP Bio review?

The AP Bio review serves as a cumulative “wrap-up” of all topics learned throughout the year. This means that you’ll likely cover the foundational topics, like cell structure, organization, energy functions, and more.

How will the AP Bio review prepare me for the exam?

The AP Bio review helps you to approach the exam with confidence, exposing you to similar question styles, topics, and other elements that you’ll run into on exam day. Many students appreciate the level of preparation and support provided by available AP Bio review options.

Ready to take the next step and enroll in AP Bio? Our online application process is designed to make enrollment as stress-free as possible. Take the next step toward your academic success today — browse our catalog to learn more about course offerings or contact us at 1.855.550.2547 to speak to an admissions advisor.