I’m starting Junior year of high school this year, and I’m at a bit of a predicament. I’m taking AP physics, AP language and composition, and Calculus AB. But my physics teacher recently told me that it would be a good idea for me to also take the AP Physics C: Mechanics exam. He says its very similar to the AP Physics 1 class I’m already taking, just with some calculus mechanics added on. So, with some supplementary preparation added onto my AP physics studying to apply calculus, I could take the Physics C: Mechanics exam. Has anybody done some thing similar? Do you guys think it’s a good idea?
What would be your goal in doing that? What would it be intended to accomplish?
I want to apply to a university for physics, so I want to have some results to send out. And if there’s not that much extra effort, why not do it?
Well, for starters, it’s a waste, IMO, of $94 and 2-3 hours of your time.
You’ll have 3 AP scores to “send out;” the 4th won’t make or break an application.
Personally, if you think you can score well on the Physics C: mech exam, I would just take that. History has shown that most people who take the Physics 1 exam have scored poorly, so the opportunity for college credit is slim.
Is the physics C class offered at your school? Have you taken physics before? What level calculus have you taken or are you in?
Oops.
OK… I’m not sure it’s doable if you’re taking AB concurrently.
Have you taken physics honors?
Yeah, I have. The class isn’t offered. A guy did last year, and he got 5’s on both exams. He says it easily doable. The calc concepts included are simple according to him. I just figured if the content on the exams is the same and I’m already learning them for Physics 1 anyways, I minus well do both exams.