Advanced Placement (AP) Chemistry
Advanced Placement (AP) Chemistry is an introductory, college-level course that is offered at Orange Vista High School. We will expand on the CP chemistry concepts and attain a more in-depth knowledge of the field through experimentation, advanced data analysis, problem solving, and writing to meet the standards of a freshman-level university course. That being said, AP chemistry is rigorous, and the expectations are high. The course will arm students will essential knowledge and skills that they will in need in upper division courses at a university. Any student who is considering a science or math major in college, and/or wants to pursue a science-related career, will benefit from taking this class.
Equity and Open Access:
Per the College Board, any student who is willing and academically able must be given an opportunity to take an AP class. A willingness and desire to be in the class is most important. A student can be denied access or removed if they are deemed academically unable to take the course, and/or are not meeting the expectations.
Requirements to take this class:
Prior to taking AP Chemistry students should complete one year of CP or Scholars Chemistry, one year of CP or AP Biology, and one year of or be concurrently enrolled in Algebra 2; a year of CP or AP physics is recommended but not required. The student must earn a 'C' or higher in all prerequisite courses to be eligible; if concurrently enrolled in algebra 2, the student must earn a 'C' or higher in algebra 1. If you do not meet any of these prerequisites, you might still be allowed to take the class if you get a recommendation from your current chemistry teacher, your counselor, the AP teacher, and can demonstrate mastery of basic chemistry and math skills prior to the start of the year. (See the summer assignment)
SCHOLARS PROGRAM: If you are in the scholars program, you might be able to take AP Chemistry before completing biology and physics, provided you have already met the chemistry requirement. Please speak with your counselor if you're interested.
Lastly, all students must have a strong work ethic, good attendance, and be motivated enough to complete the challenging tasks and assignments that this class requires. AP Chemistry is tough; it is meant for the serious student who is looking to prepare themselves for college-level rigor. You will need to spend a significant amount of time outside of school preparing for the class and AP exam. It is recommended that you form study groups with your classmates; this is done often by college students, and research has shown it improves their understanding of the material.
For more information about this course and to add your name to the interest list, come to talk to me in room 537.
Equity and Open Access:
Per the College Board, any student who is willing and academically able must be given an opportunity to take an AP class. A willingness and desire to be in the class is most important. A student can be denied access or removed if they are deemed academically unable to take the course, and/or are not meeting the expectations.
Requirements to take this class:
Prior to taking AP Chemistry students should complete one year of CP or Scholars Chemistry, one year of CP or AP Biology, and one year of or be concurrently enrolled in Algebra 2; a year of CP or AP physics is recommended but not required. The student must earn a 'C' or higher in all prerequisite courses to be eligible; if concurrently enrolled in algebra 2, the student must earn a 'C' or higher in algebra 1. If you do not meet any of these prerequisites, you might still be allowed to take the class if you get a recommendation from your current chemistry teacher, your counselor, the AP teacher, and can demonstrate mastery of basic chemistry and math skills prior to the start of the year. (See the summer assignment)
SCHOLARS PROGRAM: If you are in the scholars program, you might be able to take AP Chemistry before completing biology and physics, provided you have already met the chemistry requirement. Please speak with your counselor if you're interested.
Lastly, all students must have a strong work ethic, good attendance, and be motivated enough to complete the challenging tasks and assignments that this class requires. AP Chemistry is tough; it is meant for the serious student who is looking to prepare themselves for college-level rigor. You will need to spend a significant amount of time outside of school preparing for the class and AP exam. It is recommended that you form study groups with your classmates; this is done often by college students, and research has shown it improves their understanding of the material.
For more information about this course and to add your name to the interest list, come to talk to me in room 537.
