AP calculus preparation books

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around recommendations for AP calculus preparation books, with participants sharing their experiences and preferences regarding study materials and strategies for achieving a high score on the exam.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks for specific recommendations for AP calculus preparation books.
  • Another participant suggests that obtaining actual old AP calculus tests may be more beneficial than relying solely on preparation books, noting that AP tests are generally easier than college courses.
  • A different participant mentions two specific preparation books, "5 Steps to a 5" and "ARCO Master the AP Exam," and seeks opinions on which is better.
  • One participant advises against using preparation books, claiming that past AP exams are the best practice material, citing their teacher's extensive collection of old exams.
  • Another participant expresses frustration at the difficulty of finding past exams and reiterates their interest in the two mentioned preparation books.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of learning the material thoroughly to succeed on any exam, although this perspective is challenged by others who seek specific resources for achieving a high score.
  • A later reply clarifies that the goal is not just to pass but to achieve a top score, indicating a desire for effective study aids.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the value of preparation books versus old AP exams, with no consensus on which specific book is superior. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to preparation.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention the difficulty in obtaining past AP exams, which may limit their preparation options. There is also a distinction made between the perceived difficulty of AP tests compared to college courses.

Who May Find This Useful

Students preparing for the AP calculus exam, educators looking for resources to recommend, and parents seeking guidance on effective study materials.

needhelpperson
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Which ones do you recommend? Please give an explanation as well. Thanx
 
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Are you just preparing for the AP calculus test? I never took that, but my son did and I imagine the ones for sale at the book store are pretty good. If possible get hold of actual old AP calc tests from the college board or whoever gives the test.

In my experience, AP calculus tests are a bit easier than actual college courses though. So it is often a mistake to bypass a college version of a course you have earned AP credit in.

I advise good students who do well on AP tests to take the beginning course in the same subject but on the honors level. It makes no sense to me for an honors high school student to get AP credit so he can go into a more advanced but non honors course in college.
 
thanx for your suggestion, but i was really looking for a specific brand of the preparation book. I've just searched for some, and the best 2 are "5 steps to a 5" and the ARCO Master the AP exam. Can anyone tell me which one is better of the two?
 
Don't waste your time or money on those books. If you search hard enough you can get copies of almost any previous AP exam. My high school AP calc teacher had every single AP exam since about the 40's-50's. or whenever the AP exam started. Trying the old tests are the best practice.
 
those past old exams are almost impossible to find. So I am resorting to just purchasing those books to help prepare for the actual exam. Any ways, I'm still wondering which book of the two, "5 steps to a 5" or "Arco master the ap exam", is better. Please, if you have any, provide some suggestions. Thanx.
 
just learn the material. then you can pass any exam. this may sound callous but it is true.
 
I'm aware of that, but I am not looking for just a pass. I actually want to get a 5 on it. So any help i can find, i guess i should take advantage of it.
 

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