UMass Boston and the Boston Science Partnership organize practice AP tests under realistic conditions for 322 Boston high schoolers
On Saturday, April 12, UMass Boston hosted 322 Boston Public School students as they took practice AP science exams to get ready for the real thing four weeks later. The event was part of a comprehensive test preparation program run by the Boston Science Partnership (BSP), comprising faculty and graduate students at UMass Boston and Northeastern University who are working with Boston Public School teachers to prepare students from grades 6 through 12 for college coursework. Following the practice exam, UMass Boston faculty and graduate students will work with Boston Public School teachers through the weekend, with the goal of returning graded exams directly to teachers the following Monday so that the preparation process can continue.
“UMass Boston’s collaboration with the Boston Science Partnership is an extension of the university’s constant support for urban education,” said Chancellor J. Keith Motley. “UMass Boston faculty and students are playing a key role in helping hundreds of aspiring science students realize their untapped potential.”
Under test conditions, these devoted students, representing over half of all AP science students in the district, took intensive science exams and interpreted problems, explained concepts, and analyzed data. This mock test gave the students a hands-on experience of actual testing conditions, which helped them better prepare for the official test, which could give them a leg up in college and make a big difference to young people who hope to enter scientific professions or medical school.
“Over the past three years, both students and teachers have found this event to be extremely beneficial in increasing the success of students taking the AP exams,” said UMass Boston Provost Paul Fonteyn. “UMass Boston is proud to continue to support this endeavor and enhance the learning experiences of students in the Boston area.”
Collected statistics of the comprehensive AP support given to students by the Boston Science Partnership over the last three years have revealed that it is making a huge difference to AP exam scores in Boston. Results show that:
- 618 students took AP science tests in 2007-08, compared to 375 in 2006 and 183 in 2000. This is an increase of 336% in 7 years.
- 48% passed with a 3, 4, or 5 last year, the scores needed for college credit.
- 34 AP classes are currently offered by the Boston Public Schools in chemistry, physics, environmental science, and biology.
- 41% are offered at the city’s three exam schools; 59% at district and pilot schools.
Marilyn Decker, the senior program director for science in the Boston Public Schools, explains the success: “The AP practice sessions have been terrific for our kids. They love the chance to come to the university settings and continue their studies. And our numbers reflect their effort and the benefits of the partnership.”