Algebra 2 as a Junior

Applying to College
1

So I had a horrible algebra 1 teacher 8th grade (got a b) and my high school counselor told me to take algebra 1 again as a freshman. So now I’m in algebra 2 as a junior, and am planning on taking accelerated pre calc next year, and includes Calc AB the second semester, (Hence the accelerated name I guess). However, I don’t want to major in mathematics/engineering… I was going to want to major in English. With a current 4.3 gpa as a junior, will my math courses put me at a disadvantage if I was to apply to selective schools like Boston college, notre dame, etc.

I need advice!!! I already feel like I’m over thinking…

2

Taking Algebra 2 during junior year is common. How many year of math will you have by the time you apply?

3

You don’t need to take Calc AB to major in English.

4

I will have all 4 years. I also feel like this accel pre calc / Calc AB will look better than just regular pre calc, and I might possibly add AP stats to totally bolster the math resume. I know I am overreacting as I am not interested AT ALL in the engineering field, but thanks again for taking the time to reply.

5

That’s because you are. :slight_smile: Accelerated pre-calc as a senior with your college plans is fine.

6

I think you should do math senior year because most colleges want 4 years of math, no matter what you’re majoring in.

7

Accelerated pre-calc with Calc AB in the second semester sounds extremely challenging. Pre-calc is one of the harder high school math classes offered. Unless you love math and are good at it, I would be think hard about taking on that rigorous level for math. As others have said, you don’t need Calc for an English major and getting a bad grade is not going to help your application. Regular pre-Calc may be a better choice. Talk to you guidance counselor.

8

Precalculus (with or without calculus) should be the minimum level of math to complete in high school if you are aiming for selective colleges. Note that many colleges have a quantitative reasoning graduation requirement; the more math you have in high school, the fewer courses you are likely to need to fulfill such a requirement.

9

Calc AB crammed into second semester of senior year? Sounds challenging- especially with the lack of motivation that is common after acceptance letters start flowing in. Is it a popular choice at your school?

10

At our school, kids who are not strong in math take college algebra and statistics instead of pre-calculus and calculus, is this an option at your school?

11

Well my school is kinda known for its grade inflation - yes I know many people who are currently in the “accelerated” course who came from alg2/alg2 honors and are getting A’s with enough work