Research honors courses

Overview

Planning to take honors courses sophomore year? Research now helps you make informed decisions during course registration.

What Are Honors Courses?

• More rigorous than regular courses
• Faster pace and deeper content
• Often more homework and projects
• May earn extra GPA weight at your school
• UC honors points start sophomore year

Common Sophomore Honors Options

• Honors English 10
• Honors Geometry or Honors Algebra 2
• Honors Chemistry or Honors Biology
• Honors World History

How to Research

Talk to Current Students

• What's the workload like?
• How does it compare to regular classes?
• Would they recommend it?
• What should you know before enrolling?

Talk to Teachers

• What preparation would help?
• What skills are most important?
• Who typically succeeds?

Check Requirements

• Are there prerequisites?
• Is teacher recommendation required?
• Are there placement tests?

Is Honors Right for You?

Consider Honors If You:

• Earned strong grades in the subject this year
• Enjoy being challenged
• Have good time management
• Are genuinely interested in the subject

Be Cautious If You:

• Already struggling with current coursework
• Have many other demanding commitments
• Are primarily motivated by GPA weight

The Balance Question

Remember: A's in honors < struggling in too many advanced classes

It's better to succeed in a balanced schedule than overwhelm yourself.

Encouraging Thought

Challenge yourself appropriately — honors isn't for every subject, and that's okay!