Choosing the Right Grade 9 Math Stream in Ontario
Ontario removed the Grade 9 math split in 2021. Here is what parents need to know about MTH1W, why the course still matters, and how to set your child up for the Grade 10 Academic path.
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Articles from the Exploring Scholar teaching team on AP and IB preparation, contest math, SAT, university admissions, and tutoring strategy. Published continuously since 2007.
How to Write a Strong IB Extended Essay
The IB Extended Essay is a 4,000-word independent research paper that can add up to 3 bonus points to your IB score. Here is how to approach it from research question to final submission.
Read More →AP English Language vs AP English Literature: A Decision Guide
AP Lang covers nonfiction and argument; AP Lit covers fiction, poetry, and literary analysis. Here is how to decide which one to take, and whether both make sense for your schedule.
Read More →AP Physics 1 vs AP Physics C: Which Should You Take?
AP Physics 1 and AP Physics C cover similar topics but are built for different students. Here is how to choose the right course for your goals and math background.
Read More →SAT vs ACT: Which Should Toronto Students Take?
Both the SAT and ACT are accepted equally by US universities. For most Toronto students, the SAT is the better starting choice because Ontario's math curriculum aligns closely with SAT Math.
Read More →How to Prepare for the Euclid Math Contest in Toronto
The Euclid Math Contest is one of Canada's most recognized high school math competitions, and Waterloo explicitly requests scores for Math and CS applicants. Here is how to prepare effectively.
Read More →AP Chemistry vs AP Biology: Which Is Harder?
AP Chemistry is harder for most students, with a 51% pass rate vs 67% for AP Biology. Here is how to decide which one fits your strengths and university goals.
Read More →10 Common AP Exam Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
After tutoring AP students for two decades, the mistakes we see on exam day are surprisingly consistent. These are the ten most common, and how to avoid each one.
Read More →How to Write the McGill Supplemental Application
McGill's supplemental essay is 250 words and can make or break a borderline application. Here is what admissions is looking for and what to avoid.
Read More →Why Toronto Students Struggle with Grade 11 Math
MCR3U is the biggest difficulty jump in Ontario high school math. Abstract function reasoning replaces procedural calculation overnight, and many students hit a wall in the first unit.
Read More →AP vs IB for University Admissions in Canada
Both AP and IB are respected by Canadian universities. IB can earn more credit at McGill, but grades matter far more than program name. Here is the real comparison.
Read More →What Makes a Great Math Tutor?
A great math tutor identifies exactly where understanding breaks down, not just where the grade is low. Here is what separates good tutors from ineffective ones.
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