Benefits of Pursuing AP Calculus BC Despite Having an 'A' in AP Calculus AB

Calculus AB is widely recognized as being equivalent to college Calculus 1, while Calculus BC aligns more closely with college-level Calculus 2. Following Calculus 2 would be Calculus 3, often referred to as multivariable calculus. By taking Calculus BC, you take a significant step further in your mathematical progression.

Additional Learning Opportunities

AP Calculus BC offers a range of additional topics that are not covered in Calculus AB. If you perform well in AP Calculus BC, you can potentially receive college-level credits for Calculus 2, providing you with a considerable advantage. This can lead to several benefits, including financial savings, flexibility in coursework, and the opportunity to explore additional interests.

Strategic Approach to Timing

I recommend waiting until your senior year before taking Calculus BC. By waiting until you are finishing high school, you can maintain a stronger grasp on the material until you need to apply it in college. There are also specialized books designed to guide you through the BC curriculum. For instance, one book might focus on the first term, while another covers the second term. Although there is some overlap between AB and BC, the material in BC is crucial for subsequent mathematical studies. Regular review is helpful to reinforce your understanding.

College Credit and Future Prospects

Calculus AB is considered equivalent to college Calculus 1, and Calculus BC is equivalent to college Calculus 2. The advantages of taking AP Calculus BC vary based on your future college plans and specific course requirements. If your chosen college accepts AP scores for credit, you can potentially earn credit for Calculus I and II. Additionally, since the topics in Calculus AB are a subset of those in Calculus BC, you would already be familiar with about 60% of the content on the AP Calculus BC exam.

Specialized Field Considerations

For students aiming to apply to top science or engineering programs, a strong background in AP Calculus BC is often expected. Taking the BC course offers a smoother transition into the more advanced topics covered in the first term of college Calculus 2. On the other hand, if you are pursuing a degree in a different field, AP Calculus AB may be sufficient.

Considering the steps outlined above, pursuing AP Calculus BC, even if you have already earned an 'A' in AP Calculus AB, can offer significant long-term benefits, particularly for students with aspirations in STEM fields.