Practice Makes Passing by Lily Majors
Students at Melbourne High School prepared for the AP Lang exam through timed practice tests with Mrs. Courtney Boos. Mrs. Boos had run these exams for six years, offering three throughout the year to simulate the real test. “The goal is for students to earn a score of 3 or higher and earn college credit,” said Mrs. Boos. “Most students improve their multiple-choice questions each time and make corrections to their essays,” Mrs. Boos said. “They also get better at managing their time and writing more in the short time provided,” Mrs. Boos added.
For junior Joli Bartczak, the practice tests helped build confidence and improve skills. “Mrs. Boos gives feedback and that was really helpful knowing what to change,” Bartczak said. “Repetition is a very effective study method for me,” Bartczak said. She also studied with flashcards and AP Classroom practice. “Being able to fully experience the actual test multiple times is really nice,” Bartczak added.
As the exam approached, students continued improving through repetition and feedback. Mrs. Boos said students became more confident with each test, while Bartczak felt prepared to pass. With more practice exams ahead, AP Lang students at Melbourne High continued strengthening their performance before test day.
Caption:
AP Practice Prep: Joli Bartczack focuses on her computer as she completes an AP Language practice test. Bartczack participated in one of several timed exams led by Mrs. Courtney Boos to prepare students for the official AP test. The three-hour exam included multiple-choice questions and essays designed to improve time management and writing skills. “Mrs. Boos gives feedback and that was really helpful knowing what to change,” Bartczack said. “Most students improve their multiple-choice questions each time and make corrections to their essays,” Boos said. Photo by Lily Majors

