Advanced Placement Mathematics, or AP Math, refers to college-level mathematics courses offered by the College Board in high schools across the United States. These rigorous courses are designed to challenge students with university-level content while still in high school, providing an opportunity to earn college credit or advanced placement based on their performance on standardized AP exams.
AP Precalculus is designed to prepare students for the rigorous study of calculus. This course focuses on functions and their applications, covering polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometric functions, and sequences and series. Students learn to analyze, interpret, and model real-world situations using various types of functions, building the mathematical foundation necessary for success in calculus.
AP Calculus is divided into two courses. AP Calculus AB covers fundamental concepts including limits, continuity, derivatives, and integrals, equivalent to one semester of college calculus. Students learn to find rates of change, optimize functions, and calculate areas under curves. AP Calculus BC includes all AB topics plus advanced concepts like infinite series, parametric equations, polar coordinates, and vector functions, equivalent to a full year of college calculus.
AP Statistics focuses on the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students learn to explore data patterns, design sampling methods and experiments, work with probability distributions, and conduct statistical inference including hypothesis testing. This course emphasizes statistical reasoning and communication, preparing students to make data-driven decisions. It is equivalent to a one-semester introductory college statistics course.
Taking AP Math courses offers numerous benefits for students. These rigorous courses can earn college credit and advanced placement, saving time and money in college. They provide excellent preparation for higher education and strengthen college applications, especially for STEM fields. AP exams are scored from 1 to 5, with scores of 3 or higher typically earning college credit or placement. Beyond academics, AP Math courses develop critical thinking skills and mathematical reasoning that benefit students throughout their careers.