AP Classes

In her letter “Stop Grade Padding” (May 18), Sarah Vinnedge forgets what was going on in the 1980s when the UC system was complaining about “straight-A” students who were performing so poorly. Turns out that the straight-A students included students taking regular courses instead of honors and AP classes because they couldn’t risk getting a B in those demanding classes and preferred the easier ride to an A in the less-challenging regular class. The point differential was established to make the harder course worth taking.

I have taught both AP and regular history classes, and believe me, there is a world of difference in the dedication of the students. It’s not padding--it’s building muscle that will help students survive the rigors of university-level courses.

Abraham Hoffman

Canoga Park