AP Calculus AB/BC

Welcome  

In AP Calculus, you won't just learn isolated topics—you'll explore the big ideas of calculus, like modeling change and analyzing functions, which tie everything together into a cohesive whole. Both courses challenge you to think critically, using definitions and theorems to build arguments and justify conclusions.

What makes these courses truly engaging is their multi-representational approach to calculus. You'll encounter concepts, results, and problems expressed graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally, allowing you to explore connections between these different representations and deepen your understanding of calculus.

But it's not just about crunching numbers; clear communication is key. You'll learn to articulate your methods, reasoning, and conclusions effectively, honing your ability to communicate complex ideas with clarity. And with the help of technology, you'll reinforce your understanding of calculus concepts, confirm your written work, conduct experiments, and interpret results. 

AP Calculus isn't just about mastering math—it's about developing critical thinking skills and gaining a deeper appreciation for the power and beauty of calculus. 

Course Overviews 

In AP Calculus AB, you'll dive into the exciting world of calculus, focusing on differential and integral calculus. It's like taking the first half of a college calculus course and exploring how things change and come together.

In AP Calculus BC, you take things to the next level! It's like combining both the first and second semesters of a college calculus course. You'll apply what you've learned in AB to even more advanced topics like parametrically defined curves, polar curves, and vector-valued functions. Plus, you'll tackle additional integration techniques, explore new applications, and dive into the fascinating world of sequences and series. 

Prerequisites 

Before diving into calculus, it's important to have a strong foundation in math. Here's what you should consider:

• Take courses covering algebra, geometry, trigonometry, analytic geometry, and elementary functions.

• Get comfortable with various types of functions: linear, polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, inverse trigonometric, and piecewise-defined functions.

• Understand properties of functions, composition of functions, algebra of functions, and how to graph functions.

• Know the language of functions: domain and range, odd and even functions, periodic functions, symmetry, zeros, intercepts, and descriptors like increasing and decreasing.

• Understand sine and cosine functions from the unit circle and know their values at key angles like 0, π/6, π/4, π/3, π/2, and their multiples.

Building this solid math foundation will set you up for success in calculus!

Summer Assignment

AP Calculus AB/BC is like a college-level course—it moves quickly, and we've got a lot to cover before the AP exam in May. That means we won't have much time to go over basic skills in class. This summer assignment is all about practicing those skills so you can succeed throughout the year and ace the AP exam. If you need extra help, I've included some websites that might come in handy for the topics we're covering. Let's dive in and get ready for an amazing year!

Summer Assignment Pacing

To make sure you're ready for school in August, try to spend a few hours each week on this assignment starting now. Waiting until the end of June or early July won't give you enough time to prepare. Also, cramming the whole packet right before school starts won't be very helpful either. Instead, set reminders on your calendar and plan specific times to work on the assignment over the summer. This way, you'll be well-prepared when it's time to go back to school.

Grading

When the 2025-2026 school year begins, your math teacher will review your progress on the Summer Assignment and check that it's being fully completed, including all supporting work for your answers. Remember, if you don't complete the work, you won't receive credit. Your teacher will offer extra help if needed at the beginning of the school year. This assignment will count as a summative assessment in your first quarter grades.  Keep in mind that late assignments might be accepted, but there could be points deducted.  Due dates can be found here.