<p>Which would be the better class to take?</p>
<p>Any advice? Difficulty of the class, difficulty of the AP test, amount of work, etc.</p>
<p>AP physics C is def harder.</p>
<p>Stat is definitely easier than Physics C in terms of exam and courseload.</p>
<p>But Physics C is more interesting (for me, at least).</p>
<p>But every student, regardless of intended profession, should have some background in statistics (according to my math professor).</p>
<p>But physics is still more interesting.</p>
<p>I’d go with physics.</p>
<p>In statistics all I’ve learned is where several functions on my calculator are located.</p>
<p>Take Physics C.</p>
<p>How hard is AP Statistics really? Is it a lot like Algebra 1? Because I owned that class. I might have to take 2 math classes next year if circumstances arise, how does it sound to balance Precalculus and AP Stats in one year?</p>
<p>AP Stats is not any hardcore math class. You will probably find harder math in AP Physics C.</p>
<p>Well, AP Stat can easily be self studied for if you have a bent for math. Meaning that AP Stat is none too difficult if you enjoy (or can bear) the subject.</p>
<p>Physics C is harder in pretty much every way, but the AP exam has a more generous curve.</p>
<p>thanks to all who replied</p>
<p>I forgot to say I was looking for a relatively easy class. That would be statistics then. Hopefully it’s not too boring. More time to sleep I guess…</p>
<p>Take AP Stat. It’s an easier course but not a fluff one either. Good balance.</p>
<p>AP Statistics, with the exception of some Type I & Type II Errors (which my teacher add in for fun, not in AP curriculum) is decently hard. AP Physics C…that’s just…20 fold harder.</p>
<p>AP Statistics is definitely an easier course, and colleges know that. AP Statistics is still relatively rigorous compared to some of the other APs, but not so much as compared to AP Calculus BC or Physics C. That’s why not nearly as much credit is awarded for AP Statistics.</p>
<p>If you look at AP credits accepted at MIT, Physics C is accepted for a MAJORS physics credit. AP Statistics, however is not taken at all, not even for elective credit. At state universities, AP Statistics is often only accepted in place of Stat 101 and nothing higher. On the other hand, AP Physics C credit can be substituted for one or two semesters of a majors calculus-based physics class.</p>
<p>It’s really up to you in terms of interest and ability. If you’ve already taken some sort of physics, plan to major in physics/engineering or have a strong background in math/science, I’d say take physics. It will help more in the long run if you’re pursuing that career path. If not, then take AP Statistics. That’ll help you too, but the level of it nowhere near the level of first-year majors stat.</p>
<p>This is an extremely late reply to the topic but, I must say, whoever above said that Type I and Type II errors are added in for “fun” and are not in the AP curriculum did not take the AP exam this year. Anyway, back to the topic at hand, I recommend taking AP Physics C if you are a math/science person by nature. If not, take AP Statistics. The course is certainly easier for people who do not enjoy math in general (for example, me).</p>
<p>Note that AP Physics B and C are different. AP Physics B just covers mechanics and is not calculus based. AP Physics C covers both mechanics and electricity/magnetism and is calculus based (so students need to either have taken AP Calc AB or BC, or be taking it simultaenously with AP Physics C.)</p>
<p>To put this is perspective. My S took AP Calc BC as a sophomore, breezed through the class and got a 5 on the test. His teacher recommended he’s get more rigorous math by skipping AP Stats. So S is taking an on line class in linear algebra this year (getting an A) and multivariable calculus next year, as a senior. He’ll be doing a summer reserach internship doing climate modeling with a professor.</p>
<p>He went into AP Physics C having already taken AP Calc, plus a summer course in basic physics. After the AP Physics C tests (yes, two of the, in each of the area) on Monday, he said some of the FRQs in mechanics were “pure evil.” He said he’d be thrilled if he comes out with a 4 and 5 on the AP tests.</p>
<p>His conclusion: AP Physics C is the biggest academic challege he’s had yet, ever.</p>