As the end of the year approaches, students can look forward to SOLs and finals. Seniors and some juniors who take IB courses, however, also will have IB tests. The tests begin on May 4 and continue until May 24.
Usually, teachers take advantage of the next couple weeks to review and prepare for the tests. However, many classes are still struggling to finish with their curriculum due to the week that was missed in February because of the snow. “I felt like I was using as much time as possible, but then had to catch up,” IB Biology teacher Francesca Mast said.
Another thing that will be decreased this year is time to study for the IB tests. “It’s hard because it puts more pressure on the student. It cuts our review time,” said Mast.
Some teachers like IB Anthropology teacher Holly Miller has lost several weeks due to a change in the IB test schedule in addition to the snow days. “I got lucky last year. They gave me extra weeks to review because I was at the end of the schedule,” said Miller, “It’s been very stressful this year. I’ve had to take out a lot of activities and video clips. A big part of the class is missing.”
Students are also feeling the crunch. “I don’t feel very prepared right now,” junior Olivia Ko said, who is taking the IB Chemistry and IB Anthropology test this year.
For seniors who took IB tests last year, the system this year might feel somewhat different. After IB Coordinator Erin Albright resigned earlier this year, IB English teacher Shirley Campbell has taken up the helm. The transition from IB teacher to IB Coordinator has given her a different perspective on the program. “There’s a tremendous amount of behind the scenes work,” said Campbell.
Even though there is a weeks less time to prepare, as well as a new program head, Campbell stresses the importance of everyone being ready for the tests. “There should not be any surprises. Students should have multiple times for review,” said Campbell.
As IB Coordinator, Campbell has had to check for conflicts, such as a student having two tests at the same time, secure substitutes, and make sure there are not any scheduled fire drills during testing among others. “Equipment had to be ordered for the exams, even tables!” said Campbell.
While it may seem like there is a mad rush to get to the finish line, not everyone is stressing over the exams. “Either you know the stuff or you don’t,” said junior Jake Dang, who is taking the IB Chemistry exam.
