Thinking about taking an AP or Dual Enrollment class next year? Read this!
Teachers and students describe college courses offered
March 31, 2021
We offer 16 Advanced Placement and two Dual Enrollment courses. Both AP and Dual Enrollment are college level courses which means students can earn college credit while still enrolled in high school, as well as prepare for college and potentially save time and money.
Like many underclassmen considering AP and Dual courses, I would only sign up after having the reassurance from my older peers who had already taken the class. Many told me the classes were manageable and that the teachers are considerate of us being high school students, even though they are college level courses.
Reassured, I ended up taking 10 AP’s in my high school career and not floundering, but flourishing as a student. As I took more courses, I recognized that each class is connected to one another in different ways. I learned many new skills, and I feel unafraid of attending college after making these decisions. But as a senior, my high school course selection process is over. Now it is your turn and I’m hoping to provide you with something I didn’t have: a one-stop spot for information about all of the AP and Dual Enrollment classes you can choose from.
The SunDevil Times has asked students to review their favorite AP/Dual classes as well as rate their difficulty level from 1-5, one being the easiest and five being the hardest.
Students who responded to the survey overwhelmingly reported that they were satisfied with their choice to sign up for these classes.
In addition to student input, the AP and Dual teachers have shared information on the workload, benefits, and other general information about their courses.
Principal Leanne Turnbull-Palette encourages students to consider signing up for college level courses.
“There are so many benefits to taking advanced/rigorous coursework while in high school,” said Turnbull-Pallette. “By taking these college level classes, students are provided with opportunities and experiences that prepare them for college level work and expectations. One of the greatest benefits of taking these courses in high school is that students can learn how to be in college classes without paying college prices. Additionally, the level of support is far greater, and students can work directly with the teachers if they are struggling. Regardless of the content, the work in advanced level courses is designed to push and challenge your thinking. Students learn to work collaboratively with peers, learn to manage their time more effectively, and learn how to overcome challenges.”
Additionally, students who do well on their AP exams earn college credit. Some have even earned enough credits to enter college as a sophomore.
Dual enrollment classes are another type of college course.
“Dual Enrollment courses are another way to earn college credits while in high school,” said Turnbull-Pallette. “The benefits of taking these courses are similar to AP courses. Students are provided with rigorous college-level work and access to work directly with the teachers. Dual enrollment courses are much cheaper than typical college courses.”
Lastly, Turnbull-Pallette encourages students not to be afraid of these courses.
“Our ultimate goal is to increase enrollment in advanced coursework for all of our students,” said Turnbull-Pallette. “Many are reluctant to take these courses for a variety of reasons. Don’t be afraid! I encourage students to take these risks from the ‘cheap seats’ in high school. The benefits of this exposure far outweighs the fears students may have. Teachers are very supportive and are willing to provide support. Some students do struggle in advanced classes and we encourage students to seek tutoring and support in lieu of dropping the class. In college, dropping a class would be quite expensive, and we want students to learn to not give up, but to find ways to overcome the challenges. These are valuable life skills we prefer students learn and practice with us before going to college where it could cost them greatly.”
AP Biology
Mark McGee, Teacher
What is the workload like for your class?
“There is a large amount of practice with AP-style multiple choice questions, FRQs, and lab work.”
What are the benefits of taking your class?
“Students develop the critical thinking skills to evaluate claims, make predictions, and to pose questions about the biological world. Students will gain a more thorough understanding of how living systems are organized, the processes of how they interact, and how they have evolved.”
Is there anything else you would like to add for the students who are considering signing up for your AP class?
“There are several AP sciences to choose from, but if you have a curiosity in life and the processes that have led to its unity and diversity, then AP Biology is for you!”
Charlie Hopf, Senior
Difficulty rating: 3
“McGee is a wonderful teacher. If you like science, you’ll love AP Bio.”
Ava Slutsky, Junior
Difficulty rating: 3
“While the content may be challenging at times, it’s less of a difficulty and more of an exciting new learning experience. Mr. McGee is always super helpful and he’s there to guide you whenever you may need. It may feel intimidating to ask for help, but he’s a very genuine person and is willing to give you help without judgement.”
AP Calculus AB
Jason Byzewski, Teacher
What is the workload like for your class?
“45 minutes to an hour of homework a night most schooldays.”
What are the benefits of taking your class?
“Calculus is the culmination of just about every math class taken since kindergarten. Some of the benefits to taking the class in high school vs college is that calculus in college can sometimes be given in large lecture halls with someone who may not be trained to be a teacher. Even if you don’t excel in AP Calculus it is a great foundation for taking the course in college.”
Alex Nena, Senior
Difficulty rating: 3
“This goes for any other AP Class, but it is imperative to keep track of your assignments. When you stay mindful of the work you have to complete, you will realize that the class really is nothing to be afraid of. Doing extra study outside of class-time will also make a significant difference. As for the workload, you will sometimes be assigned to watch videos that will prepare you for the next class, so it is important to do those as well.”
AP Chemistry
Patty Cook, Teacher
What is the workload like for your class?
“AP chemistry is the equivalent of a year (2 semesters) of college chemistry and lab—so there is a lot of material to cover. Students are asked to explain how the microscopic structure of a substance determines its properties, make predictions and do inquiry-based labs.”
What are the benefits of taking your class?
“Depending on the college, a qualifying score on the AP exam could award you up to 8 credit hours of chemistry. That would free up a lot of time in your freshman year! But even without a qualifying score, the skills you will learn in AP chemistry would make your college experience in a lab based science class much easier. You will develop critical thinking skills that could be applied to many areas of study.”
Is there anything else you would like to add for the students who are considering signing up for your AP class?
“Many of my former students have told me they were so glad they took AP chemistry while still in high school. It made their college experience a positive one.”
Jaden Catalfamo, Senior
Difficulty rating: 2
“AP Chemistry is relatively easy as long as you dedicate the time to practicing and reviewing material. Mrs. Cook is an amazing teacher with a bunch of experience as well when teaching this subject, so you’ll be in great hands! The workload isn’t heavy at all; the most amount of work you might have would either be a progress check or a lab. AP Chemistry is definitely in my top 3 favorite AP classes that I’ve taken so far, and I have absolutely no regrets taking this class (especially since I’m going to be a STEM major in college).”
Joy Kissell, Senior
Difficulty rating: 5
“This class is the hardest AP class I have taken. The workload isn’t too bad; there isn’t any excessive reading to do, but there is a lot of classwork and labs to complete. This class is like a second math class, so keep that in mind before deciding to take this class. One tip I have is to study for tests and the exam (if you plan on taking it) further ahead than you think you will need because there is a lot of content to cover in this class. If you want to take a rigorous science course with lots of labs and calculations, this is the class for you.”
Rosemary Nelson, Senior
Difficulty rating: 4
“This is not just a class you can sit through. You have to commit to chemistry to get a good grade. Learn your formulas, ask questions, and do your homework please!! Be proactive. Take it from a future chem major, you don’t want to blow this class off!! It’s excellent preparation for college STEM courses. Don’t be afraid of chemistry!”
Emma Smith, Senior
Difficulty rating: 4
“The class wasn’t too hard and the workload wasn’t too heavy. Only take it if you’re good at labs though.”
AP Computer Science Principles & AP Computer Science A
Jason Byzewski, Teacher (AP Computer Science A)
What is the workload like for your class?
“No set amount of homework a night, but there are coding assignments in each of the 10 units that can take an hour plus to complete.”
What are the benefits of taking your class?
“Learning a computer language, Java, is a great first step on the road to being a programmer. Even if you don’t want to become a programmer, the ideas and concepts learned in class carry through to other STEM careers.”
Jennifer Kavanek, Teacher (AP Computer Science Principles)
What is the workload like for your class?
“Very little work outside of class, most assignments can be completed during class time.”
What are the benefits of taking your class?
“Learn to code, explore your interests through creating apps that interest you, learn about data storage and security concerns and open up the world of computer science!”
Is there anything else you would like to add for the students who are considering signing up for your AP class?
“This is a great class for anyone interested in the computer science field but who maybe doesn’t know where to start! It is for both beginners & experts! No prior computer science knowledge necessary. You will love this class and get to experience the wonder of the code you write running real time as an app on your phone!”
Marc Erjas, Senior
Difficulty rating: 4
“Very practical uses 10/10, easy until you get to the end of the course when you are sorting algorithms.”
AP English 11 Language & Composition
Robin Lusk-Stancil, Teacher
What is the workload like for your class?
“The workload is very consistent. We write mostly in class timed, so there are no real out of class essays. We only have homework usually to read and that is usually short nonfiction passages or if we did not finish the class work of the day.”
What are the benefits of taking your class?
“It prepares them for college and ideally gets them 3 college credits in writing. It prepares them to do well in AP 12 or Dual Enrollment also.”
Is there anything else you would like to add for the students who are considering signing up for your AP class?
“Students taking the class learn a great deal, improve their skills, and are usually very thankful they took the class as they feel prepared and do well in college.”
Adelina O’Con, Senior
Difficulty rating: 2
“AP English 11 does not require a lot of work out of class, but be ready to write a lot of timed essays. The class is very useful if you wish to improve your writing skills and it adequately prepares you for the exam.”
Anna Watson, Senior
Difficulty rating: 3
“Critical thinking is necessary for this class.”
AP English 12 Literature & Composition
Summer Cozzens, Teacher
What is the workload like for your class?
“We do a lot of reading and analysis of literature. We study one major work per month (a novel or play) as well as several poems and short stories throughout the course. Most of the homework is reading or finishing assignments that are started in class.”
What are the benefits of taking your class?
“You will learn to think deeply, read critically, and develop your analysis skills. This will help you in any future classes you take–not just English! If you like reading, this is definitely the class for you. If you like poetry, or just want to get better at understanding it, we do daily poetry analysis. If you are a deep thinker and like discussing moral and philosophical ideas, you will enjoy this class as well. If you are interested in getting college credit, you can take the AP exam and earn 3 college credits for this course.”
Is there anything else you would like to add for the students who are considering signing up for your AP class?
“This course is designed to be taken in conjunction with AP English 11. While the AP 11 course is focused on writing and composition, the AP English 12 course is focused on reading and literary analysis. (We do write, but it’s mostly literary analysis.) The two courses together mimic the freshman English requirements of most universities.
You do not have to take AP English 11 in order to take AP English 12, though! If you took honors English 11 and you like to read and want to challenge yourself, you are welcome to take this course as well!
You can also take the course without taking the AP exam if you just like reading or want to build your critical reading and analysis skills in order to prepare for college. Check with the colleges you are thinking of applying to and see if they accept AP credits and what score you’d need to get on the AP exam in order to be exempt from your freshman English classes.
Marc Erjas, Senior
Difficulty rating: 4
“The heavy work is worth not having to take any exams”
Realyn Cora Morcilla Quiazon, Senior
Difficulty rating: 2
“Workload isn’t that much, as long as you pay attention to due dates (because sometimes they don’t appear in your “upcoming” bar) you’re good to go. She does want you to use some of your own time such as the weekend for example to do her work, because it’s an AP class after all, but she also gives us plenty of time and even extends it if needed. So far, we get new assignments everyday but they’re pretty easy to do, just a lot of typing and reading. We read only a few books, but put a lot of effort into analyzing them. She gives us a lot of days just to read a chapter. This class is very flexible and forgiving, you learn a lot, and you start to not mind typing up extensive paragraphs. In fact I began to enjoy it. I was also surprised at how much I engaged in the zoom meetings. If you’re lazy like me you might struggle, but I hope you try to at least discipline yourself and take some 15 or more minutes of your time each day to work on her stuff (I’m also trying to work on that). She’s very kind and sweet so it’s hard to not finish her work without feeling guilty. But anyways you’re awesome and I hope you enjoy this class as much as I have!”
AP Environmental Science
Cynthia Kube, Teacher
What is the workload like for your class?
“The workload for this class is minimal and manageable. The textbook readings are supplemental and support interactive note-making in class. Most weekly assignments are designed to be partially completed during class. Homework is rarely assigned. The expectation is that students spend time reading the text and relevant articles, reviewing notes and labs, and preparing for class discussions.”
What are the benefits of taking your class?
“This class will help you develop a deep understanding of the environmental issues we face locally, nationally, and globally. Environmental literacy and environmental stewardship are critically important for all citizens. Each of us has the power to make a difference in creating a more sustainable society. This class will provide you with meaningful and relevant experiences inside and outside the classroom – you will participate in many lab and field investigations that will help you develop critical thinking and problem solving skills.”
Is there anything else you would like to add for the students who are considering signing up for your AP class?
“This class is for EVERYONE—not just for those who are interested in science. APES is an exciting learning journey where we recognize and develop our connection with the planet, and realize the great need to protect it. APES is an applied science, which means it is unlike any science course you have taken before. It draws from foundational concepts in earth science, biology, and chemistry, but focuses on understanding environmental problems and solutions. Join us!”
Willow Harris, Senior
Difficulty rating: 2
“If you do the work and a quick review of the material before tests and quizzes, you will do very well! The information is very interesting and applies to so many careers, it also allows one to learn about the importance of the earth and its resources!”
Anna Watson, Senior
Difficulty rating: 3
“Ms. Kube is one of the best teachers I have had at Salem. She is sweet and understanding about her students and helps them however she can. They way she teaches caters to multiple styles of learning and she makes sure all of her students are included in her class.”
AP European History
Laura Tyler, Teacher
What is the workload like for your class?
“It’s a semi-flipped class, so you’ll have homework most days consisting of video lessons followed by a quiz and a follow-up lesson the next class, with activities to practice content and skills. We also practice skills within the required exam elements of Multiple Choice Questions, Short Answer Questions, Long Essay Questions and Document-Based Questions.”
What are the benefits of taking your class?
“You’ll expand your knowledge on how Europe’s past has shaped our current society as well as the opportunity to earn college credit.”
Is there anything else you would like to add for the students who are considering signing up for your AP class?
“This class is more than just remembering dates and people. You will get to sharpen your tools of analysis and critical thinking and you’ll develop a deeper understanding of how and why events occurred.”
Deonni Fredrick, Sophomore
Difficulty rating: 5
“You have to write a lot of notes everyday and study, so if you’re not prepared for that don’t take the class. You also have homework and quizzes each class, and sometimes the questions aren’t always common sense.”
Erica Munisar, Senior
Difficulty rating: 4
“Many say AP Euro is difficult especially since it is the first college course for underclassmen, though I would add that it is a very interesting class. Mrs. Tyler is kind and does not assign textbook readings as she mostly likes to present the information to her students instead. Test scores are dependent on how well one pays attention. I signed up for this class in my senior year because I wished I had decided to take it sooner. This class is perfectly doable and I would recommend it to anyone seeking out an impressive high school and college career.”
Kellin Williams, Sophomore
Difficulty rating: 4
“Take a lot of notes, you’ll need them.”
AP French
This is a distanced learning course offered by Salem High School.
Adelina O’Con, Senior
Difficulty rating: 3
“It is a very helpful class if you wish to further your understanding of the French language and culture; however, it can be difficult if you did not grasp the language well enough from the previous levels.”
Ava Slutsky, Junior
Difficulty rating: 3
“The workload is not terrible, but you can’t go into it expecting no work. If you don’t work and practice, you won’t retain the language well. I’m very glad I took the class and got the credit.”
AP Human Geography
Kris Shows, Teacher
What is the workload like for your class?
“Medium.”
What are the benefits of taking your class?
“Learn about your world! Where people are, how they got there, and what are they doing there. What is your role in the global community?”
Is there anything else you would like to add for the students who are considering signing up for your AP class?
“This is an Advanced Placement class. Expectations are that when you enroll, you understand the benefits, requirements, and the consequences of not completing your work.”
Brianna Massenburg, Freshman
Difficulty rating: 4
“Try your hardest to pay attention. I know it’s hard, but you’ll thank yourself!”
Jess McMillan, Sophomore
Difficulty rating: 2
“It’s good for your first AP class. The workload isn’t that bad for an AP class and teaches you how to write FRQs. It also teaches you about cultures and where places are, so it makes you more knowledgeable about the world around you. Mrs. Shows is a very likable teacher as well and makes the class fun which is part of what makes the course great for your first AP class.”
Charlize Molinary, Freshman
Difficulty rating: 3
“If you are transitioning from being an eighth grader to a ninth grader, this class may be a bit difficult for you considering you may have little to no prior knowledge upon coming to Salem, and taking this class. Aside from that, the benefits are pretty amazing! You receive a college credit. During the time of COVID, the workload can seem like a lot, but it is a reasonable amount of work considering it is a college/AP course.”
AP Physics 1
Chris Jackolski, Teacher
What is the workload like for your class?
“I think it’s a standard amount of work, but it certainly helps to do extra if you want a 4 or 5. (It’s a tricky exam.)”
What are the benefits of taking your class?
“Physics gives you a better understanding and appreciation of how the world works. Appreciation is a good word. If art class gives you art appreciation, then science classes like physics should give you science appreciation. In addition, I hope that students come away from this class as better analytical thinkers – being able to decompose a problem into more manageable components and steps.”
AP Psychology
Sarah Clark, Teacher
What is the workload like for your class?
“Homework is usually about 7-10 pages reading from the textbook”
What are the benefits of taking your class?
“The benefits of taking AP Psychology is gaining a better understanding of yourself and others. The class also prepares you for success in college courses.”
Namarta Sharma, Senior
Difficulty rating: 4
“This class is mainly about memorization and how well individuals are able to comprehend the material that is taught. So it depends on how well one can manage their time to take notes & study outside of class because in class there are assignments where you have to apply what you learned the night before (from notes). It’s a great class that many students should take even if they aren’t planning on majoring in it or having it as a career path. It allows you to learn more about the mind and during it, learn about yourself as well.”
Khristina Smith, Senior
Difficulty rating: 2
“This class is absolutely amazing if you love learning about people and how/why they act the way they do. The workload is pretty light considering it’s an AP class, and it is very interesting. I definitely recommend this class!”
AP Spanish Language and Culture
Leah Donohue, Teacher
What is the workload like for your class?
“Most of the work is done in class. Outside of class students are expected to listen to Spanish for about 20-30 min a week (student choice within parameters) and do a discussion board every other week on it. In a normal year, we have a reading or listening that students have an entire week to complete that is outside of class. Other than that, it is about talking/discussing on a variety of topics with the use of authentic texts/audios.”
What are the benefits of taking your class?
“Students get to use the language that they have been studying over the course of the past 4 years in an authentic manner. It allows students to grow in confidence with the language and truly sets them on the path to have a minor/major in Spanish. It also makes my students a much more valuable potential hire because they grow in their fluency of the language and this is valuable to employers.”
Is there anything else you would like to add for the students who are considering signing up for your AP class?
“If you are in Spanish IV, and you want to continue studying it – it is a valuable AP class and one of the most accessible. We are unique in that students are coming into class with prior knowledge of the subject matter. They can also use skills they have learned in other classes. It is also one of the national AP exams that has the highest pass rate due to this fact.”
Jordan Millar, Senior
Difficulty rating: 2
“Overall, I find this class very fun and it allows a lot of creativity. We do a lot of group discussions, as well as debates, and the environment is very relaxed. The teacher is very understanding and she is always there to provide help because she truly wants the best for her students.”
AP Statistics
Jason Byzewski, Teacher
What is the workload like for your class?
“45-60 minutes of reading, vocab and answering questions a night.”
What are the benefits of taking your class?
“Every person should take Statistics. This way they can not get scammed, bamboozled, or swindled by media, casinos or other parties.”
Anna Watson, Senior
Difficulty rating: 5
“Pay attention. Do the reading and focus on what you are reading. This class is heavy reading based and requires good critical thinking and comprehension skills. It really is a great class and I encourage people to take it.”
AP U.S. Government and Politics
Mikki Sturgis, Teacher
What is the workload like for your class?
The workload for AP Go Po is project based, collaborative, and similar to a college-level course. There are tests, quizzes, and assignments weekly.”
What are the benefits of taking your class?
“This is not just a class; it’s reality!”
Is there anything else you would like to add for the students who are considering signing up for your AP class?
“In class we will not just learn politics; we will also do politics. As Goethe said, “Thinking is easy, acting is difficult, and to put one’s thoughts into action is the most difficult thing in the world.” I hope that by mixing theory, facts, relevant contemporary issues, and opportunities to act on your knowledge you will have the tools necessary to become political. So sit back, relax, and get political.”
Ethan Foley Grade, Senior
Difficulty rating: 3
“Keep up-to-date with current events so that you can relate what you learn to what is happening in the world.”
Marian Herboso, Senior
Difficulty rating: 3
“For an AP class, it’s going to have work you need to do in and out of class everyday, but for me, it’s just the right amount. It doesn’t take up a lot of time to do, and the material in this class is easy to understand with how modern it is, and how much we’ve learned about our government throughout our years in school. I think this class is really beneficial if you want to understand what’s currently going on in politics and want to shape your beliefs a little bit more. Everyone should definitely take this class because it teaches us things about our government on a deeper level— things that can still be applied to the system we have today. It shows how important it is to be open-minded with politics, and that views can change. Having discussions with other students here can be really interesting!”
Adriel Tabilin, Senior
Difficulty rating: 2
“Of the 34 courses I’ve taken throughout my high-school experience, this has to be one of, if not, my favorite course. The workload wasn’t that bad. It’s somewhat loaded but it’s quick to go through. We often got to do work in partners or groups so if a lot of your friends sign up for the course, the class is even easier. We get to do fun projects, engage with each other, and have discussions that are passionate and make you want to say something. Overall, the class was pretty easy, engaging, and enjoyable for me. Given that we were in a digital environment, Ms. Sturgis did her best to make the class really fun and I think she did. If you like and/or enjoy Social Studies, I highly recommend you take this course. It was one of the highlights of my senior year. :-)”
AP U.S. History
Tabb Pearson, Teacher
What is the workload like for your class?
“Rigorous (especially in a 4×4 setting); Requires good reading/study habits and self-discipline”
What are the benefits of taking your class?
“One gets an in-depth look at the history of this great nation and gets to experience it at the college-level…and even get the opportunity to earn college credit. (Our history is also full of great stories.)”
Is there anything else you would like to add for the students who are considering signing up for your AP class?
“It’s especially helpful if you have a history of taking upper-level English classes so that you’ll be able to handle the reading/studying/writing demands associated with AP USH. Having and building good study habits is a key to a positive experience.”
Delaney McCoy, Senior
Difficulty rating: 1
“This was one of my favorite classes that I took in high school. The workload was reasonable and I felt like if you kept up with the pace of the class and stuck to the reading guides for notes, then the class was easy to follow along with. I personally enjoyed the lecture style teaching, and all the information on the test and quizzes was highlighted and mentioned on the reading guides and quizzes. There wasn’t anything regarding material for tests and quizzes that was out of the blue. If you’re looking for a fun, interactive, and manageable class then I would definitely take APUSH. You won’t regret it.”
Reagan McCoy, Senior
Difficulty rating: 4
“AP US History has a very rigorous workload with reading almost every single night, normally a full chapter or almost a full chapter. There is some form of a test or quiz every single class, whether it be a normal quiz, reading quiz, or a test. I really enjoyed the class, I like learning history so it sparked interest for me, but the learning style is definitely different. Mr. Pearson teaches in more of a lecturing format, and reviews information from the front of the class, with a relevant story or interesting tidbit here and there. I liked the lecturing style of teaching, it kept my attention and offered a different, new way of reviewing and learning information that I hadn’t experienced with my other classes. I really enjoyed the class, but be prepared for a lot of reading and note taking to be prepared for reading quizzes, however there are bonus questions on almost all of them to help your grade. The class is great; I had a lot of fun taking it, though it is a lot of work, there are interesting stories, activities, and lessons that will keep you engaged.”
Erica Munisar, Senior
Difficulty rating: 4
“I would rate this class a four in difficulty, because it does require an amount of thorough studying and reading to do well in the class. Mr. Pearson is a great storyteller (with many personal stories!) and one can easily tell that he is so very invested in his teachings. I looked forward to listening to his lessons at every 4A block. APUSH feels necessary for students that want to become properly prepared for college work!”
Adelina O’Con, Senior
Difficulty rating: 4
“This class is fairly easy if you are willing to commit to a hefty workload each night. While this class has been one of my favorites, I would not recommend it for everyone as it does require a lot of dedication.”
Dual Enrollment English 12
Kathleen Trace, Teacher
What is the workload like for your class?
“The workload for Dual is very doable. Students get a good amount of class time to do work so if they use that time wisely they shouldn’t have much homework.”
What are the benefits of taking your class?
“After successful completion of Dual English (which means a C or higher) there is no final test (like you would have for an AP class). You automatically have SIX college credits. Those credits are TCC credits and will transfer just about anywhere!”
“You’re so much better off taking this entry level English class in high school because Mrs. Pettay and I are there to walk you through each step. You likely won’t get that type of personalized instruction in the same class in college.”
Is there anything else you would like to add for the students who are considering signing up for your class?
“Taking Dual Enrollment English will prepare you for the type of writing you will do in college no matter what field you go into (math, science, engineering, arts, psychology…well beyond English classes). Also, you save a ton of money by taking the class now instead of paying full college tuition costs for the same classes. It’s only $135 a semester here, but on a college campus it can be upwards of $1,000 for the same classes. Many students who take Dual Enrollment English at Salem will not need to take ANY English in college. Even if you took AP English 11 and scored well on the test, you will still get SIX additional credits for Dual so the combination of those classes would get you NINE college credits.”
“You do not need to come from AP11 to take Dual. Both honors 11, and core 11 students in good standing are encouraged to take Dual!”
Amber Verzo-Rull, Senior
Difficulty rating: 2
“This consists of a lot of essays and MLA format. The biggest benefit of this class is that it is a guaranteed college credit (unlike AP) where there’s not really an exam to receive the credit, but it does cost $135. If you like expressing yourself through writing, this is the class for you. You even get to write your college essay and get help from your teacher and peers to review your essays before submitting. Overall fun class and not too difficult.”
Elizabeth Foxwell, Senior
Difficulty rating: 3
“If you excel in writing or some sort of creative form of art, it may be the class for you. Aside from how frequent you’ll be writing, you’ll learn what professors expect from college students and how to write at a college level. The class is very organized and that aspect is very helpful. As long as you follow the steps and stay organized, the class is easier. The class will progressively become more independent and ‘difficult’ so that you can display what you’ve learned. Other than that, the class isn’t necessarily all that difficult.”
Rosemary Nelson, Senior
Difficulty rating: 2
“You should take dual because it teaches you how to properly give constructive criticism during peer review. In college, you need to be able to read through lots of essays and quickly decide the strengths and weaknesses of the writer so that you can give (what we call them in the dance strand) “hugs and wishes” to the writer. It’s very deadline oriented, but other than that it isn’t difficult.”
Dual Enrollment Theatre
Sharon Byrd, Teacher
What is the workload like for your class?
“Self paced online units. Essays, presentations, play reading and analysis.”
What are the benefits of taking your class?
“Each course provides students the opportunity to earn 3 elective college credits through TCC for a total of 6 while providing a foundational understanding of the Theatre Arts.”
Is there anything else you would like to add for the students who are considering signing up for your AP class?
“Great class for self motivated, curious students with an interest in theatre arts and it’s origins.”
Willow Harris, Senior
Difficulty rating: 2
“As an academy student I found this class to be very enjoyable! Due to the college level most of the work is complete independently, so it is important to get the work done as you go. I am pursuing theater in college, so having this preparatory course has been very helpful to me. You not only learn performance reviewing skills, but you get to analyze and dig deeper into the historical side of theater!”
