AP® Biology

Course Overview:

AP® Biology is a rigorous, college-level online science course designed for motivated high school students who are interested in pursuing biology, health sciences, environmental science, or related STEM fields in college and beyond. Equivalent to a two-semester introductory biology course typically taken by first-year college biology majors, this course builds a deep conceptual understanding of modern biology while emphasizing scientific inquiry, data analysis, and real-world application.

Students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they explore biological systems from the molecular level to ecosystems. The course places a strong emphasis on science process skills, including experimental design, data interpretation, and evidence-based reasoning. As a college-level course, students are expected to demonstrate independence, strong time-management skills, and a willingness to engage in challenging, authentic scientific work.

This course is specifically designed to prepare students for success on the AP® Biology Exam, which may earn college credit depending on exam performance and institutional policies. Because the AP Biology exam requires students to analyze data and hand-draw graphs, students will gain experience using a variety of graphing tools, including online graphing platforms, spreadsheet software (such as Excel), and traditional hand-drawn graphs.

Instructional content is delivered through course materials and the assigned textbook, with meaningful feedback provided on labs, assessments, and authentic assignments. Students have regular access to their instructor for individualized support, questions, and guidance throughout the week. While the online format allows for some flexibility in pacing, the course follows a structured academic calendar with a defined fall start and spring end date to ensure students are fully prepared for the AP® exam.

Semester 1:

In Semester 1, students build a strong foundation in modern biology by exploring the chemistry of life, including macromolecules and enzymes, before diving into DNA structure, gene expression, and biotechnology applications. The course then shifts to cellular structure and membrane dynamics, followed by an in-depth study of energy transformation through cellular respiration and photosynthesis. Throughout the semester, students develop essential scientific skills through data analysis, graphing, and lab-based investigations aligned with AP® Biology expectations.

Semester 2:

Semester 2 expands on core biological principles by examining cell communication, the cell cycle, and cancer, followed by classical and molecular genetics. Students then explore evolutionary processes, beginning with microevolution and extending into macroevolution and speciation. The semester concludes with a comprehensive study of ecology, focusing on population dynamics and ecosystem interactions, and finishes with targeted AP® exam review to reinforce content mastery and exam readiness.