B+ or higher in PreCalculus (Honors) and department recommendation.
AP Calculus BC is an introductory college-level calculus course. Students develop an understanding of the mathematics of change through their study of limits, derivatives, and integrals. Students approach applications and real-world problems involving differentiation and integration numerically, graphically, analytically, and verbally. The content of the AP Calculus BC course extends one college-level semester beyond that of AP Calculus AB.
In addition to the objectives for the AB Calculus course, the BC course will enable the student to:
- Analyze planar curves given in parametric, polar, and vector form.
- Interpret and solve differential equations using further methods, including slope fields and Euler’s method.
- Extend the concept of integration to a greater variety of applications and techniques.
- Determine and use Taylor polynomial approximations of functions.
- Investigate the underlying principles of calculus, particularly the use of limits applied to series, along with the concepts of convergence and divergence.
A variety of assessment techniques is used in AP Calculus, including investigations, journals, portfolios, projects, assignments, presentations of problems (both written and oral) as well as more traditional tests and quizzes. Investigations into further mathematical topics follow the AP exam in May.