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Beyond Biology: Meeting College Requirements Through AP Success – Shellee Howard Talks with Michelle Pardue
Description
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: parduprep4bio@gmail.com 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.
Connect with Shellee Howard:
Email: shellee@collegereadyplan.com
Connect with Michelle Pardue:
Email: pardue5@verizon.net
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