<p>So, I'll introduce you to the problem. In sophomore year, I took Honors Biology, because at my school you're required to take either Honors Biology or regular Biology in your sophomore year. Then, in junior year, I took Honors Chemistry, because Chemistry is also required and AP Chemistry is not offered. So, next year I can either take AP Biology or Physics, which is not Honors/AP at all. I've read on this site that most top schools heavily recommend that you take physics. But, if I take physics, I won't be able to say that I took the most challenging courses available. So, what should I do?</p>
<p>If you could take both, then take both.</p>
<p>If you cannot and are aiming for a major related to Bio, take AP Bio. If you do not want to major in anything related to Bio, take Physics.</p>
<p>I only have one open slot for science. I’m planning on majoring in Environmental Studies.</p>
<p>Take Physics, so you have the 3 sciences. It is not just for college, it is also for you and your education.</p>
<p>So it would be smart to take physics even though I won’t be able to check off the “most challenging course load” box? I’m more interested in Biology, but I can see why it would be important to take physics…ack, I’m confused as to what I should do</p>
<p>This year (junior year), I had the option of taking either AP Biology or Honors Physics. I ultimately went with Physics, because in doing so I would be exposed to all 3 branches of science (took Honors Bio and Honors Chem in my underclassman years; no higher levels were offered).</p>
<p>That was definitely one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in my high school career. </p>
<p>I can’t quite explain it, but after having taken physics, suddenly concepts from chemistry and biology that I previously struggled with make complete sense to me. I feel as though science at many high schools is taught out of order – in my opinion, physics should be taught first, then chemistry, then biology. Many of the concepts from physics feed into chemistry, and stuff from chemistry helps you understand biological processes better. </p>
<p>Not to mention, since I’m transferring to yet another high school for my senior year that doesn’t offer anything else beyond Honors Bio, Chem, and Physics, I’m glad I got my 3 core science classes down already ;)</p>