The Problem
How does this affect college and AP students and teachers?
Since the Alexandria Area High School established their modified AB block schedule, many AP and college students and teachers have found it more difficult to go in depth in all of their course work and understand the concepts before the national AP exam in May. There is also a decrease in the amount of instruction time between students and teachers.
What is an AB block schedule?
An AB block schedule is where six to eight classes are divided up between two alternate days so students only take three or four classes per day throughout two semesters. In an AB block schedule, classes or blocks run between 85 and 100 minutes. Students receive their course credit at the end of the academic year.
Why should people be concerned?
While teachers are noticing a decline in consistent instruction time in the classroom, many students are having to work harder outside of class to understand and complete the college course material. If students aren't understanding or completing the course material, then they might not get the college credit.
