question about ap calculus bc
I'm actually a senior but I can't find that forum, I want to take ap calc bc but I've only taken up to alg 2 is it possible to learn the things I need to know for bc quickly? I really want to have that under my belt and I'm willing to work for it. I'm really trying to be good at math but I can't lie it's a struggle for me sometimes. I don't wanna have to take calculus in college haha but I started the bc course online (I'm homeschooled) and I am lost. Is self studying unrealistic?
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2 answers
Hi! I took AP Calculus BC as a sophomore last year and it's definitely a challenging course. You definitely need a background for pre-calculus. That being said, it's not completely unrealistic. If you have started the course already and want to challenge yourself, you should try to take the AP exam in May. Otherwise, it might be best to drop the course still early in the year and redirect your time and focus toward other courses and activities that will boost your college resume.
Although it is possible to self-study Calc BC if you are a highly self-motivated and disciplined student, its more challenging if you haven't taken Calc AB. Most of the BC exam takes concepts from AB and builds on them. I'd recommend learning the AP Calc AB curriculum (except for a few things like the disc and washer method that likely won't be on the BC exam) and then focusing on the BC concepts. That way, if you run out of time or struggle a bit, you can still take the AP Calc AB exam which might give you college credit depending on your score and the college's requirements. Focusing your efforts to get a 5 on AP Calc AB will be more worthwhile than getting a 1 or 2 the Calc BC exam. That being said, see how things go with the AP Calc AB curriculum, and assess yourself. If you can take on more and have ample time, start studying to BC concepts, and take the BC exam! Also be sure to check out your colleges policies for credit and whether that credit can actually be applied.
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I'm super late, but as a person who has taken BC and swiftly left the class, without pre-calc, you are essentially asking to fail the class. I don't think it is impossible to score well on the exam or do well in the class, but there's a reason why pre-calc is a prerequisite to BC.