Do I need AP Precalculus?

AP Precalculus is a course designed by the College Board to provide high school students with a comprehensive and rigorous preparation for college-level calculus. It is part of the Advanced Placement (AP) program, which offers college-level curricula and exams to high school students. Here’s an overview of AP Precalculus and its differences compared to traditional precalculus courses.

AP Precalculus Overview

Curriculum and Content

1. Polynomial and Rational Functions (30–40%)

2. Exponential and Logarithmic Functions (27–40%)

3. Trigonometric and Polar Functions (30–35%)

4. Functions Involving Parameters, Vectors, and Matrices (Not assessed on the AP Exam)

Emphasis

Conceptual Understanding

Strong focus on understanding the concepts behind mathematical procedures.

Application

Application of mathematical concepts to real-world problems.

Preparation for Calculus

Designed specifically to prepare students for the rigor of AP Calculus AB and AP Calculus BC.

Assessment

AP Exam

Students take an AP exam at the end of the course, which includes multiple-choice and free-response questions that test their understanding and ability to apply concepts.

College Credit

High scores on the AP exam can earn students college credit or advanced placement in college courses.

Traditional Precalculus Overview

Curriculum and Content

1. Functions

Study of various types of functions including polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions.

2. Algebra Skills

Emphasis on algebraic manipulation and solving equations.

3. Trigonometry

Coverage of trigonometric functions, identities, and equations.

4. Sequences and Series

Introduction to sequences, series, and sometimes limits.

5. Analytic Geometry

Study of conic sections and other geometric concepts.

Emphasis

Procedural Skills

Focus on mastering procedural skills and techniques for manipulating and solving mathematical expressions.

Preparation for College Math

Aims to provide students with the skills needed for college-level math courses, including but not limited to calculus.

Assessment

School Exams

Assessments typically include quizzes, tests, and a final exam created by the school or district.

No Standardized Exam

There is no standardized national exam like the AP exam, so college credit is not typically available through traditional precalculus.

Key Differences Between AP Precalculus and Traditional Precalculus

Depth and Rigor

AP Precalculus

More rigorous and in-depth, with a focus on preparing students for the AP Calculus courses and the AP exam.

Traditional Precalculus

Emphasizes foundational skills and prepares students for various college-level math courses but may not be as rigorous as AP Precalculus.

Exam and College Credit

AP Precalculus

Includes an AP exam that can potentially earn students college credit or advanced placement, depending on their score and the policies of their chosen college or university.

Traditional Precalculus

Does not include a standardized national exam, so students do not have the same opportunity for college credit.

Curriculum Design

AP Precalculus

Designed by the College Board with a standardized curriculum and assessment framework to ensure consistency and rigor.

Traditional Precalculus

Curriculum can vary significantly between schools and districts, leading to differences in depth, topics covered, and instructional methods.

Application and Conceptual Understanding

AP Precalculus

Greater emphasis on applying mathematical concepts to real-world problems and developing a deep conceptual understanding.

Traditional Precalculus

While applications are covered, the focus may be more on procedural skills and algebraic manipulation.

In Short

AP Precalculus offers a more rigorous and standardized curriculum with a focus on preparing students for AP Calculus and providing opportunities for college credit. Traditional precalculus courses vary in depth and content but generally aim to prepare students for a range of college-level math courses without the same level of standardization or the potential for college credit through an AP exam.