How Does Taking College Prep Courses Prepare Someone for College?
Purpose
College prep courses are generally defined as those courses that put kids on track to a college education. They consist of a variety of English, math and other necessary courses that will both enhance the students' knowledge about certain subjects and make them well-rounded individuals. By taking and passing these preparatory courses, a student should be prepared to enter the college world and be on par with his classmates. These classes also act as gauges, both for students and professors. Students can determine what college courses will be like, and professors can determine what students need to learn about a given subject.
Tests
Preparatory classes also provide information that could help students on standardized tests. These tests, including the SAT and ACT, provide colleges with an idea of what students have learned during high school and how well they are able to apply this information outside their traditional classrooms. Though it is not necessary to take college prep courses in order to do well on these tests, many questions center on the same subjects that prep classes do. This may provide an edge to the students who do take them. The SAT, ACT and, if applicable, any college entrance exam results, will be factored into a student's admissions application.
Actual Courses
There are certain courses that many colleges recommend in order to prepare high school students for the fast-paced cirriculae in college. These courses usually include four years worth of English classes, three years of math courses, including algebra, advanced algebra and geometry, three years of natural sciences, including biology, chemistry and physics, and three years of social studies, including sociology, psychology or political science. Depending upon a student's major, a college may also recommend courses in a foreign language or theatrical arts.
Do Your Homework
Some colleges, especially state-run institutions, may require students to complete certain classes before they can be accepted. Check with your guidance counselor to see if the colleges you want to apply for require the completion of certain cirriculae.
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