AP PreCalculus Tutor: Prepare For Fall 2023 In San Jose
We provide the highest-rated tutoring services to middle school, high school students, and adults in the San Jose Bay Area.
What is AP Precalculus?
AP Precalculus Course Description
AP Precalculus is a new course developed by the College Board that will start in Fall 2023. It will equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in other college-level math and science courses. Students will develop a strong grasp of modeling and functions and explore real-life, dynamic situations through graphical, numerical, and other means of representation.
The course focuses on key content and skills that are commonly found in college precalculus courses, which are fundamental for pursuing careers in various fields such as mathematics, physics, biology, health science, social science, and data science.
Why Take AP Precalculus?
With half of American students starting Algebra 1 in ninth grade and encountering calculus for the first time in college, solid preparation for advanced math is necessary. AP Precalculus provides an opportunity to earn AP credit, motivates students to persist in four years of high school math, and helps better prepare students for success in higher-level math classes and any subsequent math they may need in college.
Those who plan to take calculus in high school will also benefit from AP Precalculus with the comprehensive and practical concepts taught in the course.
AP Precalculus Curriculum
There are four main units in the course:
- Unit 1: Polynomial and Rational Functions
- Unit 2: Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
- Unit 3: Trigonometric and Polar Functions
- Unit 4: Functions involving Parameters, Vectors, and Matrices
A breakdown of the topics in each unit can be found on College Board’s plan document.
Is Precalculus Hard?
AP Precalculus is designed for students who have completed both Geometry and Algebra 2 or Integrated Math 3 at any level, but how difficult a student finds it varies depending on individual factors such as their background, level of preparation, and learning style.
While regular precalculus courses are generally considered challenging due to the introduction of advanced functions and new topics, students who dedicate themselves to regular practice, seek help when needed, and maintain a growth mindset can successfully navigate the course and prepare for future college-level math and science courses.
AP Precalculus Exam
What is the AP PreCalculus Exam?
The AP Precalculus exam is a comprehensive assessment of the concepts and skills taught in the course. The first exam will be administered in May 2024. Although it is unclear so far which colleges will accept scores on the AP Precalculus exam, for all other AP subjects, students can receive college credit for the given course and/or the opportunity to take more advanced college courses. AP Precalculus is comparable to one semester of college precalculus. It will provide your future college student with useful knowledge and a head start.
In order to receive college credits for this course, students are encouraged to earn a score of 3 or higher.
How is the AP Precalculus test scored?
Sections 1 and 2 are both scored using computers, selected college professors, and expert AP Calc AB teachers. They are all combined to create the composite score. Each student’s composite score is then converted into a 1-5 scoring system.
Students who get a score of 3, 4, or 5 will be able to submit their test results to prospective universities. This provides them with college precalculus credit and/or advanced placement in future courses at those schools.
How long is the AP PreCAlc exam?
The duration of the Advanced Placement Precalculus exam is 3 hours. It is divided into two parts: a multiple-choice section and a free-response section.
What is On the AP PreCalc Exam?
All units taught in the course except for the 4th will be on the exam. Students are expected to:
- Algebraically manipulate expressions, equations, and functions.
- Understand mathematical representations of scenarios.
- Demonstrate mastery of mathematical communication, providing precise justifications of answers.
AP Precalculus Exam Format
The College Board ensures the AP Precalculus Exam has consistent question types, scoring guidelines, and weighting. This way you and your student know what to expect on the day of the exam.
Calculators are allowed only in Section I Part B and Section II Part A, per the AP Exam Calculator Policy.
section 1
Consists of a total of 40 multiple-choice questions. Students are given 2 Hours to complete the section. It is worth 62.5% of the total AP Exam Score.
- Part A has 28 questions, no calculator, and 80 minutes to complete.
- Part B has 12 questions, graphing calculator required, and 40 minutes to complete.
CONCEPTS In SECTION 1
- General types of functions
- Algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions
- Analytical, graphical, tabular, and verbal types of representations.
Section 2
Consists of a total of 4 free-response questions. Students are given 1 Hour to complete the section. It is worth 37.5% of the total AP Exam Score.
- Part A has 2 questions, a graphing calculator is required, and it takes 30 minutes to complete.
- Part B has 2 questions, no calculator, and 30 minutes to complete.
Concepts in Section 2
- Question 1: All about Functions
- Question 2: Non-Periodic Function Modeling
- Question 3: Periodic Function Modeling
- Question 4: Symbolic Manipulations
Tutoring For AP Precalculus
One on One Tutoring
One-on-one tutoring provides students with personalized attention and tailored instruction to meet their specific needs. With a tutor focused solely on their progress, students can work at their own pace and ask questions without feeling rushed or intimidated.
Personalized instruction also allows tutors to identify the student’s strengths and weaknesses and create a targeted plan for improvement. Students can receive immediate feedback on their work, and tutors can adjust their teaching approach to fit the student’s individual learning style.
Precalculus Review
Our tutors provide personalized guidance to help students enhance their understanding of Precalculus concepts and their real-world applications. Through one-on-one interactions, students can ask questions and receive immediate feedback on complex precalculus topics.
Our tutors also offer extra resources and exercises to reinforce comprehension and improve problem-solving abilities. By conducting a thorough precalculus review, our tutors help students develop the necessary skills to excel in the AP Precalculus course and perform well on the AP exam.
Precalculus Homework Help
If your child is struggling with math homework, finding the right tutor can make all the difference. MathTowne’s tutors provide personalized assistance and homework help, so students understand difficult concepts and get the tools needed to succeed in the coursework. Whether your child needs help with sinusoidal functions, logarithms, or other precalculus topics, a qualified tutor can provide the support they need to excel in their studies.
Precalculus Exam Prep
Our tutors assist students in preparing for school tests and the AP exam next year by conducting mock tests and exams to evaluate their understanding and address any gaps in learning. We provide comprehensive precalculus review, ensuring a strong understanding of precalculus concepts and formulas necessary for success on the AP exam. With our guidance and support, students will be better equipped to tackle the challenges of the AP Precalculus exam and achieve a high score.
How our AP PreCalculus tutors create results
Study skills & test-taking Strategies
Our team is dedicated to providing the necessary support for students to succeed in their academic goals. Our highly qualified AP Precalculus tutors help students to form productive habits.
These include time management, study skills, and test-taking strategies. These fundamental skills enable students to better overcome the challenges of achieving academic excellence.
in-home & online tutoring
MathTowne has online tutoring as well as in-home for whatever suits your needs. We guarantee our in-home tutors are professional, safe, and knowledgeable for your peace of mind.
If you choose to do remote lessons, we have some of the best online AP Precalculus tutors available. Our online math tutors are highly experienced in conducting fun and effective lessons and utilize various technologies to ensure student engagement.
I need help PRepping for AP PreCalculus
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Using MathTowne tutoring has increased my overall understanding of math and has made understanding topics a piece of cake. Working side by side with my math class ensures mastery of topics in necessary areas for success. Anh has helped me raise my math grade while also being a genuinely nice person. I would recommend their services to anyone looking for great teachers that are with you every step of the way.
– Rayan
Frequently Asked Questions
How is AP Precalculus different from regular precalculus?
AP Precalculus is a more rigorous and in-depth course than regular precalculus, as it covers a broader range of topics and is designed to prepare students for success in STEM majors and careers. Additionally, AP Precalculus includes an exam that allows students to earn college credit.
What are the benefits of taking AP Precalculus?
Taking AP Precalculus can better prepare students for success in STEM majors and careers, boosting readiness for higher-level math classes, and allow students to earn college credit.
Is there anything I can do to prepare for AP Precalculus before the course starts?
To prepare for AP Precalculus, it is recommended that students have a strong foundation in algebra and trigonometry, as well as experience with functions and their graphs. You can review previous math courses, practicing problems regularly, or out a tutor that will condense the material into the most important concepts for you to save time.
How to get an A in AP Precalculus?
From our combined schooling experiences, if you pay attention in class, take notes, ask your teacher questions, always do your precalculus homework, and learn from your mistakes you will do well in any class you take. If you are feeling confused or behind, hiring an experienced AP Precalculus tutor is an excellent way to boost your grade. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Where can I find an AP Precalculus tutor near me?
Unless you live in the middle of nowhere, there should be plenty of qualified tutors in your area. If you are looking for in-person lessons, MathTowne is an excellent source for AP Precalculus tutoring in San Jose. We are also happy to provide private online tutoring to you if you are not located in the Bay Area.
Can I skip Precalculus?
Our blog post briefly mentions this, but it will depend on the school and what class you would like to skip. If the math class has a Pre-Calc requirement, it may not be possible for you to skip Pre-Calc. The best way for you to skip Pre-Calc is to speak to your math teachers and counselors at your school. In the end, you may simply need to show proficiency via a test or completion of similar coursework.
