Students get a second chance at making it into AP and Honors English by taking a retake test.

AP English teacher Dr. Marks said, “this test gives students another chance to prove that they are ready to take the class which is designed for a higher level of analytical and writing skill.”

The retake test gives students who are upset about not qualifying for AP or Honors English and still believe that AP or Honors is the right level a second chance to prove that they are ready.

After the first application test for the English classes, the teachers collaborate and decide whether the student is ready for the class. Often times, if the student has not shown the proper level of English skills to match that of the courses’ required levels, he or she insists on taking the class anyways.

Marks said, “students who take the class even if they don’t meet the standards often struggle and we don’t want people to struggle.”

The initial test consists of, a multiple choice test, the junior assessment, and the teachers observations who is the current teacher of the student.

“The test is difficult because we want students to take the class that’s the right next step for them”, Marks said. “AP is not for everybody.”

The retake test, called an appeal, consists of one shot at a retake of a timed write. The English department then reads them and if the students show good analytical and writing skills based upon the prompt than the student is reconsidered.

Marks said, “the appeal gives us a better understanding about whether the advanced class is right for the student.