Physics Honors or AP Calculus?

Question

I have the choice of taking physics honors or AP Calculus. The problem is that I love both science and math ( and I have to if I want to be an internist). But the problem with me is that I don't know which to choose. If I choose Physics Honors, and pass, I'll complete all my needed Science credits. If I take AP Calculus and pass, I'll have a college credit (and higher GPA)

Answer 1

Although everytime I see a Honors vs. AP question, I usually immediatly go for the AP.

But, this is a little differentl. I would go with Physics Honors, because

a) Don't you need all of your science credits to graduate? I apologize if I read the question wrong, but that's what it seems.

b) My teachers every year tell us that we should sign up for AP only to prepare ourselves for college classes, not because we can get college credit. The credit is not guarenteed and some colleges may not accept it.

c) If you're planning on taking a science/math related career, your college will probably make you take AP Calculus again since it's in your field.

d) You'll have an increase in GPA still with an honors course, although not as much.

This really is a tough decision. If you still can, I'd talk with other students that have taken either Honors Physics or AP Calculus and have them describe the workload, teachers, and other general information that might sway you one way or the other. Heck, if those are your only reasons for taking AP Calculus, consider perhaps talking to your counseler to take AP Physics or another AP science course?

I love math and science as well, and I'm planning on becoming an engineer someday, so I can relate to trying to figure out what to do. If I could tell you what I did, I would, but I am able to take both AP Physics and AP Calculus.

Good luck with your studies. =]

Answer 2

Tought dilema.  If you can take either class in the summer, do that. OR if you are able to take the calculus at a university while in high school, try that.  This is what my nephew did.

Answer 3

That's tough.  I would think that calculus would be more impressive to college admissions committees than physics, although again it's hard to pick one.  The AP is good as well, and as noted will raise your GPA.  You can always take physics in your first semester, or even indicate that you will take during the summer after graduation.