<p>If you can keep your GPA up, I think this absolutely would be worth it. The research experience is valuable and it sounds like the Honors Program at your school is great. All the things they’re telling you to do can be put on your application.</p>
<p>But just like @fullload was saying, GPA > Honors classes. If you had a shaky start, honors classes are a great way to <em>show</em> the admissions officers that you’ve changed academically. </p>