Tips for Excelling in AP Physics: Advice from a Struggling Top Student

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a high school student struggling in AP Physics B and C, achieving test scores as low as 23% despite being a top student and studying diligently. The student expresses frustration over their performance compared to peers, particularly a football player who scores significantly higher with less effort. Key advice includes analyzing test results for specific mistakes, focusing on personal understanding rather than comparing to others, and addressing potential misunderstandings of core concepts.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinematics and motion principles
  • Familiarity with AP Physics B and C curriculum
  • Basic calculus knowledge, particularly from Calculus 2/3
  • Experience with test-taking strategies and error analysis
NEXT STEPS
  • Analyze common mistakes in physics problem-solving
  • Review AP Physics B and C exam formats and scoring rubrics
  • Practice with additional resources like Khan Academy's physics modules
  • Engage in study groups to discuss challenging concepts and problem-solving techniques
USEFUL FOR

High school students enrolled in AP Physics, educators seeking to support struggling students, and anyone interested in improving their understanding of physics concepts and test-taking strategies.

sammy852
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This is not a physics question. Just hoping for advice for any people who taken this course in high school. My school is a block schedule so I take AP physics B and AP physics C in one year. Currently, the first semester i am making 23% on tests and the highest was a 40%. I am one of the top students in the school and I read the textbook at least twice a night. How come I still have the lowest grade in AP physics while a football player who do nothing but flirt with girls get about 70s% on his assignments? I am really depressed. I have never make anything lower than a 96% since elementary school. The class is killing me. I watch almost every video on Youtube there is on kinematics and Motion but I still don't get 50s. Why is this class so hard. I am definitely motivated?

Can anyone provide my with advice.

Oh yeah I finish precalculus in ninth grade and calculus in tenth grade. I am a senior taking Calculus 2/3.
 
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You need to analyze your test results. What kinds of mistakes are you making? Are they stupid mistakes like using the wrong "sign"? Are they boneheaded mistakes like using your left hand for the right hand rule? I have done that. Are you misunderstanding the concepts? How are you doing on homework problems? Don't concern yourself with the football player-- he could simply be gifted in physics. Concern yourself with yourself. Fix yourself.
 
Moderator's note: thread moved from Introductory Physics to Academic Guidance.
 

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