What's This Class Like?

Well, if you feel confident after Chem I, then I recommend that you try AP. But, be warned! At first AP is basically the same as Chem I but then stuff gets HARD....if you like science and lab work then I say, go for it. Friends will always be there to help you out ;)

hmmm...sorry

Okay, well I'm not technically in AP Chem, but my teacher is teaching my class like it is, and it's not too bad. We've been doing AP Chem problems and whatnot. I found regular chem to be okay, not too bad, but a good sophomore class. My current Chem class is a bit harder, but it's not unbearable. I think it would be easier if I hadn't had a year of physics between the two chems. For me at least, this class is mostly based off Chem one, but more detail. We have learned some stuff that's totally new, but I have an awesome teacher and I really like chem, so I may be a bit off the wall... :)

My teacher doesn't really teach us... It's mostly a self-taught class. But if you like chemistry, I'm sure you'll be able to do well. A lot of it is based on practicing the problems. The only reason I'm getting through the class is because I absolutely love chem, even if it's the hardest class I have.

Well, here's the thing about chemistry. One - you have to consider your major, how far you have to go into chemistry, and what college you're planning on taking it at. Two - you have to consider the teacher and how well you learn under them. Three - you have to consider your work load and determination. If your major doesn't require you to go very far into chemistry - like you only need 1 or two classes, then it might be considering taking AP to try and get that class out of the way. If you do have to go farther then it might be better to wait until college so you get the same caliber chemistry education. And if you're going to a technology institute like MIT or caltech or Georgia tech then it might be best to wait because you have to get a 5 on the exam which will be tough, and you might end up being a bit behind in your next class. However if you were planning on taking your chemistry at a community college - transfering in or whatever - then AP chem might be the way to go.

The teacher is also important - especially if you don't like the subject. A good teacher can make a subject easier to learn. Also compare class size to 10-30 in high school to the 30-40 in a small college to 150-250 in larger colleges. You can get better one on one in a smaller AP class, plus you can get a tutor - which you can get in college too - if you need it. And then of course, there's the matter of time. Either way, when you take chemistry you're in for a lot of work. There's no changing that. If you're up to it, I think if you put in the work you can do well in AP if you've got the right mix. Sometimes it just won't work out - make sure you're not in one of those situations. Just make sure you look out for yourself first.

Personally I took AP because I got a C in Chem 1 and felt that I should have a basic knowledge of chemistry before I got to college. I ended up having to take it again in college - got a 3 in the exam, needed a 5 - but I was more prepared for it and it wasn't as tough in college. And remember whenever (and if you take it, which sounds like you are) we'll be here with advice hopefully in a timely fashion. And you can always IM me or e-mail me if you have any questions or want advice or help or anything. I've still got my chem book and I know how to use it.

Well, you're more than likely to have to take chemistry in college. Feel free to post again if you decide to take it and are having problems. We're here to help!