High School Science Track Question/Advice Needed

[Anonymous]

We are new to MCPS and my daughter is a freshman at Churchill. I know I can ask this of her counselor but I want to do a little research and get some feedback from other parents before I do so.

My daughter loves science and, as of now, would like a career involved in a science-y field (perhaps earth science or chemistry etc). She's not very math-oriented, however - not a big fan so she isn't going to take AP Calculus, for instance. Does anyone know of a resource that might provide some guidance? I noticed a math track document online but didn't see one for other fields.

If your child is interested in science fields but perhaps not super "in" to math itself, can you share what courses they took?

Thanks very much!

[Anonymous]

For science, MD graduation requirements specify three NGSS-aligned classes (typically Biology, Chemistry, Physics).

The Churchill science courses are described here:

https://sites.google.com/mcpsmd.net/winstonchurchillhscourse/home-25-26/course-offerings/science

[Anonymous]

AP Physics C are calculus based. I think it's better take AP Calc AB at least and then AP Physics C if your daughter's aim is strong engineering or STEM programs in reputable colleges.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:AP Physics C are calculus based. I think it's better take AP Calc AB at least and then AP Physics C if your daughter's aim is strong engineering or STEM programs in reputable colleges.

That is nothing like what OP asked.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:We are new to MCPS and my daughter is a freshman at Churchill. I know I can ask this of her counselor but I want to do a little research and get some feedback from other parents before I do so.

My daughter loves science and, as of now, would like a career involved in a science-y field (perhaps earth science or chemistry etc). She's not very math-oriented, however - not a big fan so she isn't going to take AP Calculus, for instance. Does anyone know of a resource that might provide some guidance? I noticed a math track document online but didn't see one for other fields.

If your child is interested in science fields but perhaps not super "in" to math itself, can you share what courses they took?

Thanks very much!

What sort of career in chemistry without AP calculus? Lab assistant tech?

Math tracks are mostly locked in by 9th grade. Algebra, geom, algebra 2, precalculus, then calculus (stem and adjacent) or stats (humanities and social studies)

What class is she in now? Algebra 1? Geometry?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:AP Physics C are calculus based. I think it's better take AP Calc AB at least and then AP Physics C if your daughter's aim is strong engineering or STEM programs in reputable colleges.

That is nothing like what OP asked.

Calculus is basic for any STEM major. HS Calc AB is extremely rudimental. If a HS student can't handle that, I wouldn't recommend STEM major as their career path. It's going to be painful.

[Anonymous]

MCPS requires 3 science classes.

1. Life Science--Biology in 9th
2. Physical Science--Most kids take Chem in 10th
3. Earth/Space OR Integrated Science--most kids take physics in 11th. But there are many options that are not calculus based such as Environmental Science, AP Bio, or Astronomy with Physics.