AP Biology is a one-year intensive course designed to mirror a college-level introductory biology course. Students learn a wide range of biological concepts, principles, and skills that prepare them for future learning in biology and the sciences in general. Students prepare to take the AP Biology exam at the end of the year.   The AP Biology curriculum is based on four big ideas called “enduring understandings.” These big ideas can be distilled down to evolution, energy flow, genetics and heredity, and interactions and ecology. Throughout the course, these big ideas permeate all topics and serve to connect all concepts. Students spend about 30 per cent of class time performing experiments in the laboratory (known as labs). There are 13 inquiry-based labs that are emphasized for AP Biology. These require a large amount of autonomy from students and are student-driven. These labs give students experience with everything from animal behavior and mathematical modelling to advanced biotechnology techniques and help to reinforce the four big ideas of the course. By the end of the year, students are not only equipped to perform well on the AP Biology exam but will have a very solid foundation in their biology and science education as they continue through high school and into college.   To take this elective, students require ESL Level 3 or higher, an A- or higher in CP Biology or Honors Biology at CATS Boston or another American school. Returning students will also require the recommendation of current or previous instructor. New students will need suitable placement test results.  Taking the Advanced Placement test is a mandatory component of this course. Upon completing this course, students are eligible to take Multivariable Calculus or an independent study in mathematics. To take this elective, returning students require ESL Level 4 or higher, an A- or higher in previous course and the recommendation of their previous instructor. New students will need ESL Level 4 and suitable placement test results.