A good teacher will make more impact on AP Chem. I wouldn’t choose AP Chem if the teacher is so so. But it might matter less with AP Bio.
As it depends on the student, you would never know until you take the course. I would suggest to think about personal interest and career path instead. My D has decided to study chemical engineering since 10th grade, so it is a no brainer for her. You know if are interested in something, it would always be easier.
I would say pick based on what he wants to major in.
If pre-med, then Bio.
If engineering, then chemistry as you have to take it in college (but not Bio)
If history/business then whichever has the better teacher.
Many variables to make choice. Most important- STOP chasing the almighty gpa! people tend to do best when they like something. It could be the subject or the teaching of it that makes the difference. How about taking one this year and one as a senior? If he will likely just need the science credits for breadth requirements and his college accepts AP course credit then the biology may be the choice. If he plans on taking any more of the subject taking more HS chemistry will make it easier to grasp the principals presented in a college course. Not all high schools offer AP Biology because they prefer to cover different material but students can still do well on the AP Biology exam.
Oops. I had forgotten that. But in any case, it’s a very good idea for a student who’s starting junior year to seriously think about SAT Subject Tests, if he hasn’t taken them already.
Chem. is easier.
My kid thought bio was easier. She complained about chem, and she was a very strong chem student who aced the AP and SAT2 and never plans to take another chem class again. But if there is any possibility of engineering/chem majors, he should take chem. Otherwise, I recommend bio.
He decided to go with Bio as he has more friends in that class so it would be easier to share notes and fun to do labs/projects together.
^ That is a good reason.
And one all of us smart parents didn’t think of! 