<p>How intense are the math and science classes at Choate? (especially the courses in the summer program, if any one of you have any knowledge of it, please let me know)</p>
<p>Additionally, I plan to enroll in the Princeton Review SAT prep class. Is it rigorous or will it be a waste of my time?</p>
<p>I cannot address the summer program or the SAT prep, but I can tell you that how “intense” the math and science courses are at Choate have more to do with your personality and how you approach learning than the courses themselves. Choate has both regular and honors tracks for both math and science so, if you are high-performing and crave intensity, the honors courses will serve you well. Choate science is based on the “physics first” model where students take physics, then chemistry, and then biology. The idea behind this sequence is that students will get the most out of biology if they have a strong foundation in physics and chemistry first. Also, Choate offers a signature Science Research Program that has produced several Siemens Competition finalists.</p>
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<p>The math department also offers a far-reaching curriculum with the usual geometry/algebra/calculus sequences, but also offers statistics, probability, game theory, topics in discrete math, real analysis and such. There are also the regular/honors/AP tracks here. Students take a math placement test in the summer to determine where they should enter the sequence and at what level. The departments work with students to make sure they are placed where they will best thrive. Again, if it’s intensity you crave, you will find that Choate competes well among its peers in math as well as science having taken first place in the American Mathematics Contest this past March.</p>
<p>You do not need to be concerned about “topping out” in either discipline or not being able to find an intensity level to suit your learning style and needs.</p>
<p>I can also speak to the high level of peer, faculty, and advisor support along the way. Our son has not found Choate to be a “sink or swim” environment. Instead, he has enjoyed the academic challenges knowing that help is easily available and generously given whenever needed and there is no stigma in seeking it out. In fact, the more help you seek, the better you will do.</p>
<p>I’m not sure if you are concerned about not enough intensity or too much intensity. My take is that each student seeks his level and finds it. Feel free to PM me if you wish.</p>