Introduction
The AP Precalculus course is a rigorous mathematics course that prepares students for the College Board’s AP Precalculus exam. The course covers a wide range of topics, including functions, graphs, trigonometry, and conic sections. Students who take the AP Precalculus exam can earn college credit and placement in higher-level mathematics courses.
Course Content
The AP Precalculus course is divided into eight units:
- Algebra and Functions
- Trigonometric Functions
- Analytic Geometry
- Vectors and Matrices
- Systems of Equations and Inequalities
- Sequences and Series
- Probability and Statistics
Each unit is further divided into several lessons. The lessons cover a variety of topics, including:
- Functions: Students will learn about the different types of functions, including linear functions, quadratic functions, polynomial functions, rational functions, and exponential functions. They will also learn how to graph functions and how to find the domain and range of a function.
- Trigonometric Functions: Students will learn about the six trigonometric functions: sine, cosine, tangent, cotangent, secant, and cosecant. They will also learn how to graph trigonometric functions and how to solve trigonometric equations.
- Analytic Geometry: Students will learn about the different types of conic sections, including circles, ellipses, parabolas, and hyperbolas. They will also learn how to graph conic sections and how to find the equations of conic sections.
- Vectors and Matrices: Students will learn about vectors and matrices. They will also learn how to perform operations on vectors and matrices.
- Systems of Equations and Inequalities: Students will learn how to solve systems of equations and inequalities. They will also learn how to use matrices to solve systems of equations.
- Sequences and Series: Students will learn about sequences and series. They will also learn how to find the sum of a series.
- Probability and Statistics: Students will learn about probability and statistics. They will also learn how to use probability and statistics to solve problems.
Exam Description
The AP Precalculus exam is a three-hour exam that consists of two sections: a multiple-choice section and a free-response section. The multiple-choice section consists of 40 questions that are worth 50% of the exam. The free-response section consists of six questions that are worth 50% of the exam.
The multiple-choice section covers all of the topics that are covered in the AP Precalculus course. The free-response section covers a subset of the topics that are covered in the AP Precalculus course.
Scores
The AP Precalculus exam is scored on a scale of 1 to 5. A score of 3 or higher is considered a passing score.
Benefits of Taking the AP Precalculus Exam
There are several benefits to taking the AP Precalculus exam. These benefits include:
- Earning college credit: Students who take the AP Precalculus exam can earn college credit for the course. This can save students time and money in college.
- Placing into higher-level mathematics courses: Students who take the AP Precalculus exam can place into higher-level mathematics courses in college. This can allow students to take more challenging mathematics courses and to progress more quickly through their college program.
- Improving problem-solving skills: The AP Precalculus exam is a challenging exam that requires students to use their problem-solving skills. Taking the exam can help students improve their problem-solving skills, which is a valuable skill for college and career success.
- Preparing for the SAT and ACT: The AP Precalculus exam covers many of the same topics that are covered on the SAT and ACT. Taking the AP Precalculus exam can help students prepare for these exams.
Conclusion
The AP Precalculus course is a rigorous mathematics course that can prepare students for success in college and career. The AP Precalculus exam is a challenging exam, but it can be a rewarding experience for students who are willing to put in the effort.
