So in order to take Ap calculus, I have to take pre-cal, and I just finished taking Algebra 2 as a junior. I passed strongly with an A, but I am wondering how hard pre-cal is and if taking it online during summer is a good idea. I did very well in the trigonometry section and got an A on the chapter test. I basically know the entire unit circle, I also memorized the basic trig identities. I know that we are going to use logarithms, but the good thing is that I am very strong at that section. One last thing is that I know how to graph the exponential, logarithmic, and the six trigonometric functions.
This is going to depend on the online course provider and how much time per day you can spend on math. Some online classes are easy to plow through quickly, but not all are.
Why do you want to take Pre-calc in the summer? Are you looking to become a STEM major in the future?
I am currently taking pre calc in the summer and I am taking it on flvs. Uptill now it is really not that hard. I am in my 3rd module and I didn’t have to study at all since I took everything in Algebra 2. The course it self on flvs is unorganized. The lessons are not that helpful so if you are going to take it on flvs I recommend watching the recorded live lessons. Moreover, if you want to know the rest of the topics go to their website and see the lessons taught in pre calc.
At the moment, I’m teaching myself Algebra II in order to skip to Pre-Calculus next year. I’m mainly using Khan Academy and ThinkWell’s College Algebra to learn the curriculum (which I suggest you check out for their Pre-Calculus sections). I would also recommend finding out which textbook your school uses and looking through that to make sure the curriculum matches with what you’re supposed to learn.
The curriculum for Algebra 2 and Precalc vary widely across school districts, so you would be well served if you go through your district’s Algebra 2 and Precalc course overview and ensure that you cover all the topics your district requires. You might also want to consult with the Algebra 2 and Precalc teachers at your school before you start, they might be able to lend you a textbook over the summer, or send you some practice material.
I’m taking it online, and I suggest you read a couple Pre-calc books before you start the class. The lessons are not what you might expect so it’s easier to read a book and watch videos
Depends on how your online teacher is. With my experience with online classes, the teacher tends to be horrible with responding to emails. Material wise, precalc is basically algebra 2, except a little harder, and with polar coordinates and matrices thrown in there. If you passed algebra 2 with flying colors, precalc will be easy. If you don’t get something, there’s lots of online materials and lectures you can learn from online.
If you plan on taking AP Calc, because you’re a senior, try to take BC. If it’s too hard, then drop down to AB. It’s a lot easier to switch out of BC in the middle of the year than it is to switch into it.