What Changed? Old vs. New Curriculum

Here's what you need to know about new AP Biology Standards

Classic AP Curriculum NEW AP Curriculum
  • 12 required labs
  • 8 required labs, reducing breadth of content and encouraging greater depth in conceptual understanding.
  • General topic outline in the AP Course Description guide lessons.
  • Explicit, comprehensive curriculum framework is the basis of every lab activity.
  • Emphasis on teacher-directed, step-by-step labs with pre-determined questions and methods for investigation.
  • Emphasis on scientific inquiry, investigation, and student-directed experimentation.
  • Vague coursework objectives, so teachers feel the need to provide broad content coverage to ensure all material is covered.
  • Articulate clear learning objectives with guidance on what concepts and skills will (and will not) be taught and assessed.