Would it be better for a student to take AP Calc and get a B or to take a “slacker” math class and get a very high grade?
It would be better to take AP Calc AND get an A
ZBlue17: that’s the easy way out and it only applies if you’re talking Stanford.
The reality is that colleges want you to challenge yourself but also know your limits. So if you can get a B in an AP class, take the AP class. However, if you only get a C, you’re better off taking the Honors version or taking something else.
I’d never take a “slacker” class per say. Always go for the highest level, in which you challenge yourself, but could still succeed. In your case, I’d say go for the AP class, and just work extra harder. If you’re absolutely sure you can’t do it, take an honors class. Good luck!
If you can manage a B (or preferably A, obviously) then go for AP Calc. If you’re going to get a C or anything below it, take the “slacker” math class. It’s better to challenge yourself in something you have a high chance at doing good in rather than taking an easy class, but if you’re going to do bad then don’t both about the rigor of a course.
Put it this way: If you have a strong algebra and pre-calc/trig background, and can handle a good amount of new material on derivatives and integrals, you should be fine with AP Calc.