What should I do if I want to self-study Pre-Calc and go straight into AP Calc BC at school?Answered
Hello! I'm a freshman in Geometry. Next year I have to take Algebra 2, but I really want to take Multivariable Calculus in high school. The Academic Dean at my school is very strict about skipping prerequisites. I don't even get to skip Coding in Python for AP Computer Science Principles next year even though I made a web program. My school also doesn't allow for students to double track in Algebra 2 and Pre-Calc. So do you think it is likely for me to self-study Pre-Calc throughout my sophomore year using artofproblemsolving.com and other resources then in January next year, ask the Academic Dean if I can test out of Pre-Calc by passing the Honors Pre-Calculus final? Is this even a good idea? I don't know anyone who has ever done this at my school.
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3 answers
Hi!
I am a dual enrolled student. I am taking Calc 2 at the college I dual enroll at right now. I also took pre-calc and Calc 1 last year at this college. In my experience pre-calc was a very easy review of algebra 2. If you are good at algebra then pre-calc shouldn't be too hard. The thing to remember is that it is meant to familiarize you with the tools you need to start calc 1. The most important things are being comfortable with graphs of circles, parabolas, ellipses, natural log function etc..., and how to create/manipulate those graphs, understanding basic limits, solving systems of equations, understand basic sequences and series, some courses include a bit of trigonometry and vectors as well. In conclusion, I think if you are good with algebra and take the time to study through pre-calc, with the resources you mentioned and just looking up learning objectives for pre-calc, then there is a possibility of doing well on that AP pre-calc exam and skipping the class. I hope all goes well for you!!
To expand on the previous response, I think it would also be a good idea to speak to your Academic Dean before you start self-studying Pre-Calc to ensure that testing out will be an option available to you. I'd also try to talk to the Pre-Calc and/or Calc teachers beforehand so that they can support you (having a teacher backing you up could make your Academic Dean more willing to let you test out). The teachers /may/ also be willing to give you class assignments or exams to use as practice to make sure you're able to test out.
Alternatively, you can see if your high school has any sort of partnership with a local college--for example, some school districts allow students to enroll in community college courses for free. If you're able to, you could take classes there and transfer the credits to your high school. If you try this, bear in mind that if you're not enrolled in a course specifically for high school dual-enrollment, there may be an adjustment period. However, you seem like a very bright and motivated student, so that might not be a problem for you.
To add to Thinker's list, another resource that may be helpful is https://math.stackexchange.com (this is generally more for if there you're struggling with a specific problem rather than a larger, overarching concept).
Hi! I'm also a freshman in Geometry. That's unfortunate; some schools allow you to skip, while others are stricter. You should definitely give it a shot to see if you can make the final. Even if you are unable to skip, the amount of knowledge you will gain is priceless. It will also improve your Math SAT/ACT scores, increasing your chances of getting into college. So, in the end, it is worthwhile to go above and beyond. I hope this helps.
In addition, I recommend AoPS as a great Math & CS in-depth learning platform: https://artofproblemsolving.com
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Wow! You must be a genius if you're studying those hard classes in high school right now! Thanks for the advice! I hope honors pre-calc will be easy enough to self-study. Also, your list of concepts I need to study for pre-calc is really helpful! I'm so glad there are so many nice and kind people on this app. :)