B+ or higher in PreCalculus Honors.
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.
“AP Calculus BC builds on a lot of concepts from Honors Advanced Algebra and Honors Pre-Calculus. You won't have any time to relearn anything from prior years so I highly recommend you feel comfortable with all concepts of the previous classes. If you enjoy critically thinking about mathematical concepts and challenging your underlying beliefs, AP Calculus BC will be a great match for you. As long as you do the money sheet and keep up in class, I'm sure that you will do fantastic!”
- Brennan Lee (Class of 2023)
“Congratulations! You've made it to the top of the High School math curriculum. AP Calculus BC can definitely be tough at times, but with the foundation you've presumably built up with Honors Pre-Calculus and Honors Advanced Algebra, AP Calculus BC will certainly be doable. AP Calculus BC has definitely been my favorite math course of high school, and I wish anyone who takes this class well to enjoy it!”
- Marcus Fong (Class of 2023)
“Don't be daunted if you haven't taken Honors Pre-Calculus. As a Humanities student, I was on the honors math track until junior year, when I dropped to regular Pre-Calculus because of my workload. This year, I was scared I'd be miles behind everyone else, but it was manageable and pretty fun. As long as you commit hours to the course and pace yourself well, it's a beneficial step in your mathematical journey.”
- Chelsea (Class of 2023)