May has been a month of exams! Every day a new test is being proctored across different locations (large gym, small gym, library, and classrooms). It’s safe to say that testing is on the front minds of almost everyone in Atherton.
Sophomores and Juniors take Kentucky Summative Assessments (KSA). This assessment is a state-wide testing measure for all students in the Kentucky public school system. Sophomores take the reading and mathematics portion, while juniors take the science, social studies, editing and mechanics, and writing portions.
AP exams are the final tests that consolidate a year of AP coursework. The Advanced Placement program offers college-level courses to high school students for college credit. The scores range from 1-5, where gaining a 3 garners college credit. Atherton offers many AP tests like Human Geography, Language and Composition, World History, and more.
Atherton, an international baccalaureate school, hosts many IB tests at this time. Similar to the AP program, IB offers college-level courses for college credit. Unlike AP, the program is international and the courses span for up to two years. Students have opportunities to become IB diploma candidates, which contribute to added college credit.
From KSA, AP, IB, to finals, Many students reflect on the exams they’ve taken.
Luca Ross (11), took part in both junior KSA testing and AP Gov.
“I felt like KSA went well,” she says. “I felt confident in most everything and it was pretty chill.”
For her AP government test, she feels that she performed especially well.
“I feel really confident about AP Gov. Mr. Ellard’s prepared us very well. I’m glad I took the class.”
Students in the IB diploma program also reflect on their experiences. Some IB tests span multiple days.
On May 15-16, seniors in all IB math classes took Paper 1 and Paper 2.
Ruth Santiesteban (12) is in standard level IB Analysis and Approaches. She feels as if the test was difficult,but she ultimately did fine.
“Paper 1 was really hard. Most of my friends agreed about that. We had Paper 2 today and it was so much better!” she says.
Whether you take IB or AP, you’re most likely in the midst of exam season. Fortunately, many tests have been fully completed!
Here’s what’s on the docket for IB next week:
5/20: French Papers 1 and 2
5/21: French Listening
5/21: Math AA HL Paper 3