Achieving a Good Grade in an AP Physics Test with Self-Study

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the feasibility of achieving a good grade on the AP Physics test through self-study, particularly for students who have previously taken an honors physics class. Participants explore various aspects of self-study, including preparation time, resource recommendations, and personal experiences.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Homework-related
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the possibility of achieving a good grade through self-study, particularly given the limited time before the upcoming AP test.
  • Another suggests that hard work and a broad understanding of various subjects covered in AP Physics B are essential for success, indicating that preparation may need to be more accelerated than in honors physics.
  • A participant who took AP Physics C expresses uncertainty about the B test but emphasizes the importance of ensuring that a lower score is acceptable for college credit.
  • One contributor shares their positive experience with self-studying other AP subjects, asserting that with focus and the right resources, success in physics is attainable.
  • A participant recounts their own successful self-study of both AP Physics C tests, highlighting the importance of comfort with the material, discipline in studying, and the use of quality textbooks and study guides.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that self-study is possible but express differing views on the necessary preparation time and resources. There is no consensus on the best approach or the feasibility of achieving a good grade within a limited timeframe.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note the importance of having adequate time for preparation and the potential impact of test scores on college credit acceptance, indicating that individual circumstances may vary significantly.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering self-studying for the AP Physics test, educators looking for insights on student preparation strategies, and individuals interested in the experiences of others who have self-studied AP subjects.

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Is it possible to get a good grade in AP Physics test through self studying?

with only based on honors physics class...
 
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If youre willing to work hard. AP Physics B tests general knowledge of a wide range of subjects, so you might have to go faster than your honors physics class. What are you up to now?
 
There are some things to consider. If you take the AP test this May, that doesn't leave you nearly enough time to prepare, in my opinion. Although I took AP Physics C, I don't know much about the B test. And if you spend $80 on the test, you better be sure an appropriate lower score can get you any credit at the universities you're thinking of attending.
 
everything is possible. Hey, I self studied chem AP and computer science AB when I was in high school. If you focus on physics, you can do it!

(make sure to get some books though... get a barons, princeton review or something like that for self-studying... do every problem in the exercise, and you shall be fine)
 
I self-studied both AP Physics C tests (mechanics + E&M) and a couple more AP's also...and I did get 5's on them, so it's possible. It depends on how comfortable you already feel with the material, how disciplined with the self-studying you are, and how much experience you have with self-study.

Make sure you get a good physics textbook, but also, get a really good set of AP physics study guides (especially the Barron's)
 

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