<p>My son took the Math II test and did very well. He needs to choose a second test. </p>
<p>He took regular Chemistry this semester and is on the waiting list for AP Chem for the spring. How well does AP Chem prepare one for the subject test in Chemistry?</p>
<p>If he doesn't get into AP Chemistry he will likely choose between US History and Literature. He will have US History in the spring (if he doesn't get the AP Chem class), but it is not APUSH as his school doesn't currently offer it. How well will a regular History class prepare him for the US History Subject Test?</p>
<p>What is covered on Literature? Are there vocabulary-type questions or is it mostly reading comprehension, inferencing, knowledge of literary terms, etc.? </p>
<p>Last, what are the curves like for these three particular tests?</p>
<p>Trying to find something that aligns with his course load so he doesn't have to study a separate subject. He understands he will have to do some prep for the test itself, but it would be nice if was at least something that overlapped with his regular school schedule so he doesn't have to undertake a completely separate subject.</p>
<p>(MaryMac15535’s mom here): My daughter just got done taking Literature (swapped from Chemistry), U.S. History, and Math Level 2 earlier this month. Even though she’s currently enrolled in AP Calculus, her Math Level 2 score was really mediocre (maybe could have been better if she’d studied more), but Literature was great (reading a LOT and paying attention in one’s HS English classes will help; she says it was mostly reading comprehension, rather than vocab/grammar). Chemistry might work IF he’s currently taking chemistry and studies from a study guide for the test (the College Board book which covers ALL the subject tests is up-to-date & an excellent value, if you can only afford one book). US History would work best if he takes the subject test right after finishing the course (my daughter took AP US History last school year, and her dad’s a major history buff), but diligent study & review can help make up for a delay between taking the class & taking the test.
I’ve heard that the Literature subject test actually has a tougher curve than most of the other subject tests - so I was especially happy that my daughter did so well on that one. Depending on which college your son is applying to (and his intended major and current academic strengths), I’d recommend either Literature or U.S. History over Chemistry. (MIT, though, would insist on a science test in addition to the Math Level II.)</p>