Physics - Take it or Not?

<p>Ok, I'm having to pick classes for my junior year and I have one period left and I was thinking of taking Advanced Physics (equivalent to Honors in other schools). Originally, I was thinking there was no way I was going to take physics, because math is my worst subject (I am taking Advanced Pre-Calculus though) and I heard physics is a lot of math. A part of me does want to take it, I just don't want to set myself up to fail or get a C or D. So I was wondering if anyone could tell me what physics was like for them and if they thought it was hard or not.</p>

<p>Thanks.</p>

<p>I had this issue too- I’m a rising senior and a pretty poor math and science student (struggling to maintain a B+ in regular Algebra II and a B in chemistry). I asked my chemistry teacher what he thought about my situation, and he agreed that Physics is definitely the most math heavy subject. I’m going to be taking IB Environmental instead. </p>

<p>However, I think you and I are in slightly different situations; if you can handle advanced Precalc, then I don’t know why you wouldn’t be able to handle physics. It might not be enjoyable, but not everything is. The biggest drawback about not taking physics is that a lot of selective colleges like to see that on the transcript. While I am not too worried about this as I am not aiming to get into very many super selective schools, I’m not sure what your goals are. </p>

<p>What have you taken for science so far? Have you met graduation requirements? What will you take instead? Ask yourself these questions and then maybe talk with your guidance counselor before you make a decision. Good luck!</p>

<p>The hardest math you’ll actually encounter will be trigonometry. “A lot of math” is meant as in you’ll only be using basic algebraic methods extensively. In fact, math not being your best subject is more of a reason why you should take physics. You need that practice if you plan to be successful in Calculus, which I presume you’ll be taking next year as well.</p>

<p>In the end, Calculus and Advanced Physics actually require the same amount and level of math within your last four years, except in calculus you apply that math to solve calculus problems, and in physics you apply that math to solve physical problems. Actually understanding the concepts you learn in Physics also helps.</p>

<p>Then again, I’m assuming this is a class equivalent to AP Physics B and not C</p>

<p>I took physics my freshman year, and it was the hardest class I took. The math wasn’t hard, it was just understanding the concepts and which equation to use lol. Physics require high level thinking and a strong background in math. The easiest unit in Physics to me, was Trigonometry. I don’t know what your grade is in PreCalculus, but I think you should be able to handle Physics. I really liked that class, but I just wasn’t good at it.</p>