Skipping Pre Calc

In 8th grade I got a C+ in Algebra 1 and had to retake it with about 5 other students (small private school).

Pretty much the worst thing in my life. I am now a Junior taking Algebra 2 and I hate being with the grade below me in math. I’ve matured so much since 8th grade and my grades are much better now.

My absolute dream is for my Senior year to return to Math with my normal grade class in Calculus, not only for my college app but also to be with my grade and not feel so pathetic.

How difficult is testing out of Pre Calc? I’ve spoken to my friends in it currently and they say it’s literally just review of Alg 2. Is this true? If I am fluid in Alg 2 and prepare to study all during summer for Pre Calc is it reasonable to test out of?

Is that something you school offers? At my son’s school, they do not as they want students to have it as a basis for Calculus. Also his high school includes Pre-Calc/Trig into one course. The ACT/SAT tests include these questions on the exams. If you were to test out of it, it may make it more difficult when taking those exams. Does you school or a nearby local college offer a summer course? That may be an option. Try setting an appointment with your school counselor to discuss various options. Congrats on your improvements and know there are plenty of good colleges that will not require Calculus your senior year should it not work out. It does not mean failure! Continue to study hard, focus on a strong GPA, and best of luck!

You could try to test out if you really feel proficient in the material, but make sure your decision is informed. Talk to classmates in Precalc and Calc, see if they are doing well/ if they feel prepared for higher level math. I am currently in Precalc, and I am finding it to be beneficial, but my school doesn’t have the option to test out.

The one aspect of your post that I am wary of is your not passing Alg 2. If math doesn’t come easily to you, don’t force it. There is no shame in being in a slightly lower class if doing so helps your overall understanding of the subject. The good news is that you can always adjust your schedule if the class you end up taking isn’t right for you (be it too easy or too advanced).

Good luck in whatever choice you make! I’m sure it will be the right one for you.

Take Pre-Calc at a community college over the summer.

Because you have worked hard to improve, I would counsel against anything that puts you in a class you are not 100% prepared for.

Based on what you’ve said, you don’t want to skip because you love math and it comes easily but because you don’t like being a year behind your peers. I understand that, but it’s not a great reason to compromise your foundation in math.

A summer class is an option, but if you do that, you’ll need to be committed to really mastering the material, not just finishing the class.

Good for you on your work so far.

I would study some trigonometry identities while you’re at it.

@assemblingphilosophies I am currently taking Algebra 2. I haven’t “not” passed it, it’s just my current math class. A- first semester and in S2 now.

I don’t want to damage my foundation in math, but I’m sure some studying in a summer over a test that I’ve hard is primarily review of Alg 2 shouldnt be too bad?