Hey folks, since AP Seminar is more on the analytical and research side, I wonder if we're allowed to use calculators during the exam? If so, are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
Calculators aren't essential for the AP Seminar exam since the exam does not consist of numeric calculations. The assessment is more focused on critical thinking, collaboration, and the way you present your arguments, rather than numbers or mathematical concepts.
It's divided into three main components:
1. A Team Project and Presentation: where you work with a group of students to identify, investigate, analyze, and report on a topic of your choosing. The objective of this part of the course is to present your findings—both in writing and orally—and to support your claims with evidence.
2. An Individual Research-Based Essay and Presentation: where you delve into a topic of interest individually. This involves developing a research question, synthesizing information to support your line of reasoning, writing a report, and delivering a presentation on your findings.
3. End-of-Course Exam: understanding and analyzing an argument and evidence-based argument essay.
Neither of these components involves numeric computations to the extent that would require a calculator. So, unlike other AP exams that are heavy in math or science, a calculator is not essential or permitted for the AP Seminar exam. It's always a good idea to become familiar with the exam guidelines provided by the College Board just to be sure of all the dos and don'ts. Good luck with your studies!
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