Curiosity got me here folks, I'm wondering if there are any official studies on the least liked or most difficult high school classes? I'm asking both for my own curiosity and for an opinion piece I'm writing for the school paper. Thanks!
Sure thing! When we look at anecdotal evidence from a variety of students, the consensus seems to fluctuate heavily based on personal interests, strengths, and teacher effectiveness. However, a few courses tend to frequently surface when discussing "challenging" or "least favorite" subjects. Here are some of them:
1. Math Courses (Algebra, Calculus, Geometry): Math can be a tough sell for many high school students. This is usually due in part to the complex and abstract ideas they explore, which may not be as tangible or relatable as other subjects. Advanced Math courses like Calculus especially tend to be difficult for students not intending to move into a STEM field.
2. Science Courses (Chemistry, Physics): Like math, the abstract and complex topics in subjects like Chemistry and Physics can be challenging for some students. These subjects often require a good grounding in math, which can make them doubly difficult for those who already struggle with mathematical concepts.
3. Foreign Languages: Learning a foreign language can be quite the hurdle for some, particularly because it demands learning a whole new grammar and vocabulary set, often with different language structures and sounds.
Remember, the courses students find challenging or dislike greatly depends on their personal academic strengths, their learning and teaching styles, and their future ambitions. As an example, a student interested in History might love their English Literature class while they struggle with Chemistry, and vice versa.
In your school paper, it would be great to highlight these variations and emphasize that what might be one student's most challenging class could be another's favorite. Also, this could be approached as an opportunity to promote resources that can help students succeed in their most challenging subjects, like tutoring centers or study groups. Lastly, remember to stress the importance of all the subjects in providing a well-rounded education, irrespective of difficulty or personal preference.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.