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I am trying to finish my natural sciences requirement by taking the Biology CLEP.
My resources:
1) Cliffs AP Biology book -- This is probably too detailed for what the CLEP will ask about.
So far I have notes for the first 2 sections (33% Molecular and Cellular Biology & 33% Organismal Biology)
I am trying to learn and relearn this material each day, just memorizing is becoming difficult. (specifics anyway)
I find that if I take the notes once, then go over them over and over each day, I learn more and more instead of just cramming it all and moving on.
2) I am watching and rewatching the 8 or so Standard Deviants videos. Good overview explanations.
3) 7 days before CLEP I will be focused entirely on taking practice exams only and flushing out areas I need to relearn and adjust.
My questions:
When is enough, enough? And if I study 2-3 hours per day and 1-2 videos per day, do you think it would be wise to take the CLEP at the end of August at that rate? This is essentially the only thing I am working on outside of full-time work. It has been difficult for me to gauge if I am learning too much detail or not.
I'm looking for some guidance on when I am 'ready'.
Thanks!
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Are you using IC? They do have lots of flash cards for this test.
If I were you I would take 1 practice test now to gauge where you are any if there are specific areas you need to study.
Have you taken any other CLEP, if not you have no idea what they are like and a practice test would realy help.
If you haven't already done the natural science CLEP that practice test might also help because it is 50% bio.
At the rate you are studying and if you do 50-60% on practice test by test time you will probably be ready by the end of August if not before.
Good Luck
Linda
Start by doing what is necessary: then do the possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible St Francis of Assisi
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Thanks! I am working on finishing up an overview of the 3 topics, then I'm going to steer into practice exam. (based on your suggestion)
I am getting through populations today, and then I'll work on practice tests to see where I am weak.
Do you recommend Peterson exams then, or do you have any others in mind?
I'll be using IC to prep for the practice exams -- that's my next resource.
Basically, right now I am just building the context of the basics of all of the topics.
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The Peterson's tests are useful at assessing your readiness. It's hard to say what percentage correct you need. 60% should be plenty. Maybe 50%, but I'd like others to provide feedback.
The problem with biology is that it is so broad it is very easy to over study. I made this post to help people study more efficiently
http://www.degreeforum.net/general-educa...ology.html
63 CLEP Sociology
75 CLEP U.S. History II
63 CLEP College Algebra
70 CLEP Analyzing and Interpreting Literature
68 DSST Technical Writing
72 CLEP U.S. History I
77 CLEP College Mathematics
470 DSST Statistics
53 CLEP College Composition
73 CLEP Biology
54 CLEP Chemistry
77 CLEP Information Systems and Computer Applications
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Yes I like the petersons practice test and I prefer 60% right to feel good on the real thing.
Don't miss Freeclepprep.com they also have a practice test.
Look in your local library for a copy of REA or official CLEP study guide and practice test. It does not need to be a new copy I don't think this test has been updated in years( If I am wrong someone please correct me here).
Also don't forget the Specific exam feedback forum and I think someone posted a study guide there.
Linda
Start by doing what is necessary: then do the possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible St Francis of Assisi
Now a retired substitute Teacher in NY, & SC
AA Liberal Studies TESC '08
BA in Natural Science/Mathematics TESC Sept '10
AAS Environmental safety and Security Technology TESC Dec '12
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I would also suggest using IC. One month is only $20 - that's all you need.
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Thanks for all of the feedback!
I'll get cracking on the tests and read some of these wiki articles.
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48.9% on free clep test, that's a good wake up call for what I really need... Plant knowledge and body system knowledge.
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Celebrant Wrote:48.9% on free clep test, that's a good wake up call for what I really need... Plant knowledge and body system knowledge. 
Good for you - zoning in on those areas where you need more work. Khan Academy and Google will be your friends in filling in those gaps in knowledge.
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If you'd like to take another practice test in a few days (for free) go to your library and get the Official Study Guide for CLEP. Any year is ok, biology hasn't been updated in forever. There is an official practice test in there.
You can also use Peterson's which provides you 3 online timed practice tests (though not official, considered very accurate) for $20.
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