When you are choosing your classes for high school, you are given a choice between honors and prep classes. But what’s the difference?
Many think that honors is just a harder class at a higher level and prep is the easy way out, but sometimes that’s not the
case.
A normal high school math class will consist of taking notes in class, doing some group work, and getting a worksheet to complete for homework.
An average AP or Honors math class consists of mostly the same thing. The difference between the two is that honors classes progress and go through concepts at a faster rate and learn a higher level of math.
Honors classes tend to be a little more work and a lot more dedication to pass the class.
Prep class students tend to have less classwork and homework, and more freetime after school.
On the other hand, honors students face higher level classwork and exams, and receive more homework every night.
Some people don’t like the extra challenge it is to take an honors class, which is fine because it’s not a requirement to take any higher level classes in order to graduate or get into college.
You can still get into a good college without taking higher level classes.
One of the advantages of taking honors classes is the GPA boost. The grade you get actually counts as a letter higher than what you have.
For example, if I was taking AP History and ended the semester with a C, it would actually count as a B in terms of GPA.
Another advantage is that it gives you a higher chance of getting into a top tier college, if that’s what you’re planning to do after you graduate.
Having Honors and AP classes on your record helps convince admissions officers that you can handle the rigorous and challenging courses of college classes.
Honors classes can also give you a better academic experience and help you grow. Meaning that taking an honors or AP class might help give you a better understanding of the subject and help you explore deeper concepts.
On the flip side, honors classes can also take a toll on mental health and happiness levels.
With the more intense workload, you would have less free time, since most of it after school would be focused on homework and studying.
With this can come increased stress and pressure, which can affect your mental health and even lead to depression.
Not to mention the high standards you face in order to pass the class. With more work involved, you are spending more time and dedication to that class.
That’s why for some, choosing the prep class is the easier, straightforward class. Prep classes allow your schedule to be more flexible and have time for activities outside of school like sports or clubs.
But if you love challenges, hard work, or want to get into a really good college, honors classes might be more of your route.
When it comes to choosing between honors and prep classes, you should opt for the class that supports your goals for the school year and works better for your schedule.