Is taking 4 sciences in one semester reasonable?
I want to take grade 11 physics, biology, chemistry, and grade 12 chemistry all in grade 11. I would have two each semester, would this be too hard to organize? #science #school #courses #highschool #course-selection
5 answers
Beryl’s Answer
I admire your ambition and love of science, but to be honest, you have to look at not just the science courses, but how they fit in any other classes you are planning to take during the semester. You have to decide how much time and energy you want to devote to the science courses as opposed to the other courses. But please remember to take time out for yourself. We all need some work/life, school/life balance. Time to spend strengthening the bond with family and connecting with friends is important.
Raj’s Answer
It is great that you have strong interest in STEM curriculum. My advise will be to purse career in STEM, follow the motto "Slow and Steady wins the race". Do not be in a rush. Take the course load you are comfortable with keeping in mind other courses and other obligations (such as sports) you may have. If you over-burden yourself then you may get discouraged just in case you are not able to perform at the level you target yourself for.
Desiree’s Answer
If we presume each class is 1 semester in duration and that each class is offered both semesters, then one could hypothetically take the course load you propose. That is, take grade 11 chem the first semester (& say, Bio) with grade 12 chem the second semester (with, say, Physics). I took 2 science classes with labs each semester in my high school, so it's possible. But it is a lot of work, so you should prepare yourself.
Also, it doesn't serve your college application (or frankly, your learning) to take lots of fancy classes and get mediocre grades. If spacing out these classes will allow you to focus and study more and get higher marks, I strongly encourage that. Grades/GPA are one of the first factors colleges and universities look at. Having a tough course load with C's is not as meaningful as spreading out the courses and achieving As and Bs.... Don't set yourself for failure or a depressed GPA.
I agree with the other answers that mention ensuring you have time for sports, extracurricular activities, family and other commitments and responsibilities. You need to be realistic about how much homework and study these classes will require, and factor that into how you can balance that in your "real life", not just in terms of scheduling on a calendar.
Desiree recommends the following next steps: