As of right now, I’m a Junior in high school, and I’m trying to decide what would be most appropriate for me next school year. During last semester, I received a 100 in Algebra 2, and I was by far the person in my period to answer questions most rapidly. With that being said, my first thought is to take both AP Computer Science Principles and AP Statistics next year as the only AP courses I take. The other option is for me to take Pre-calculus online during the Summer in order to take AP Calculus AB in my Senior year as the only AP course I pursue. At my school, the AP application process occurs in January, so I have to decide rather quickly. My potential college majors are Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, and Physics. It would be great if some of you could give me advice. Thank you.
Given the areas you’ve indicated you are interested in, you should consider taking AP Calculus and AP Computer Science Principles. Good luck.
I’m interested in almost the same career path as you, and you should definitely take AP calc. In fact, my school recommends you double up you math classes (that’s what I did this year with algebra 2 and geometry) if you’re planning anything in engineering. But it looks like you missed that opportunity.
You defiantly have a strong math background. I don’t think your guidance counselor will oppose you taking precalc in the summer with your grades right now in algebra 2.
I actually was taking AP computer science this year, but had to drop because apparently you have to be in precalc (at least in my school) before you take it. In fact, most other kids in my class were in AP calc BC! It’s a whole other math course. And it’s all problem solving, meaning that they won’t teach you the math solution, you have to figure it out yourself with given constraints. It will actually be a good indication of engineering—it’s just like how it will be in college. They expect you to be a “problem solver” if you’re an engineering major.
DO NOT take AP calc, AP computer science, and AP stats together. You would be on a death sentence, no matter how good you are at math. Depending on what level calc you take (AB or BC) choose wisely. Taking AP computer science and calc BC would be a bad idea—but with AB it would be a better combination.
Is Pre-Calc/Trig plus AP CS an option? I know many will disagree, but I think it is ok to save Calculus for college. Get a solid background in high school math. The AB material will be covered in 1 semester in college instead of a whole year in high school.
I agree in that it’s probably a better decision to wait to take Calculus later on to get a better foundation in high school mathematics. Do you individuals think taking AP Chemistry and AP Computer Science Principles would be a better option, considering my interests?
That would be a better choice…if you are generally more interested in chemistry. AP CS Principles would be the better math elective to take if you are considering computer science as a major. DO NOT take it in place of precalculus, however.
What is your course load that you a plannning to take overall? That might help us determine what course of action would be best for you considering your course load.
Are you planning on only taking one math elective next year, or do you want to double up?
If just one, DEFINITELY take precalculus instead of the other two, especially if you are considering engineering.
I’d pick AP CS to help you determine if you want to major in it. If you decide to go with Engineering or Physics you can take Chem in college, if you decide to go with CS you probably won’t need it. It is helpful to pick these kinds of majors early.
I’ve decided that I’m probably going to pursue AP Computer Science Principles as the only AP course I take next year.
I’d pick AP CS principles and either pre-calculus honors or calculus.