B+ or higher in PreCalculus or B or higher in PreCalculus Honors.
AP Calculus AB 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.
AB Calculus will enable the student to:
- Work with functions represented in a variety of ways: graphical, numerical, analytical and verbal.
- Understand the meaning of the derivative in terms of a rate of change and use it to solve a variety of problems.
- Understand the meaning of the definite integral as a limit of Riemann sum and as a net accumulation and use it to solve a variety of problems.
- Understand the relationship between the derivative and the definite integral.
- Communicate mathematics both orally and in written form.
- Model a written description of a physical situation with a function, differential equation or an integral.
- Use technology to solve problems, experiment, interpret results, and verify conclusions.
- Appreciate calculus as a coherent body of knowledge and as a human accomplishment.
A variety of assessment techniques is used in AP Calculus AB, including investigations, assignments, presentations of problem solutions (both written and oral), as well as more traditional tests and quizzes. An end-of-year project follows the AP exam in May.
“AP Calculus AB might seem like an easy class at first as it isn't as intimidating, fast-paced, or challenging as AP Calculus BC but that does not mean you should take it that lightly. There are still many complex topics covered that are similar to BC and if you procrastinate, you will fall behind. Do the textbook, Albert.io, and ap classroom questions as that will help you succeed. In short, the course will take you through a journey from applying limits to defining definite integrals and how the Fundamental Theorem connects integration and differentiation. And what could make it seem difficult is that it is a last stepping stone from all the prerequisite topics you have covered from algebra to geometry, and to precalc. Hopefully, you find this course as exhilarating and interesting as I did. Good luck and have fun!”
- Anonymous
“AP Calculus AB is definitely a challenging course and was a huge jump from Pre-Calculus. I'm taking Calculus AB concurrently with other Advanced Placement courses that are known to be rigorous and it often becomes hard to juggle both. But despite the challenge, it is a great course that will prepare you for any future in STEM. Best of luck!”
- Anonymous