AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Course and Exam Description

Overview

• Updated Course and Exam Description effective Fall 2024
• Includes course framework, instructional section, and sample exam questions
• Visit AP Central for the latest updates

Key Principles of AP Courses

1. Clarity and Transparency

   • Clear expectations and course frameworks

2. Evidence-Based Learning

   • Focus on independent thinking and scientific method

3. Opposition to Censorship

   • Intellectual freedom for teachers and students

4. Opposition to Indoctrination

   • Encourages analysis of different perspectives

5. Respect for Cultural Diversity

   • Use of primary sources for study

6. Equity and Access

   • Respect and inclusion of diverse student backgrounds

7. Choice for Parents and Students

   • Informed enrollment in AP courses

Course Framework

• Science Practices: Integral to study and application in physics
• Course Content: Suggested sequence and expectations for content knowledge

Units

• Unit 1: Kinematics

  • Scalars and Vectors
  • Displacement, Velocity, Acceleration
  • Motion Representation

• Unit 2: Force and Translational Dynamics

  • Systems and Center of Mass
  • Newton’s Laws, Friction, Circular Motion

• Unit 3: Work, Energy, and Power

  • Kinetic Energy, Work, Potential Energy
  • Conservation of Energy, Power

• Unit 4: Linear Momentum

  • Momentum, Impulse, and Collisions

• Unit 5: Torque and Rotational Dynamics

  • Rotational Kinematics, Inertia, Equilibrium

• Unit 6: Energy and Momentum in Rotating Systems

  • Rotational Kinetic Energy, Angular Momentum

• Unit 7: Oscillations

  • Harmonic Motion, Energy of Oscillators

• Unit 8: Fluids

  • Fluid Dynamics, Pressure, Conservation Laws

Laboratory Investigations

• 25% of course time dedicated to hands-on laboratory work
• Emphasis on inquiry-based investigations
• Use of lab notebooks and development of practical skills

Instructional Approaches

• Use diverse teaching strategies like inquiry-based learning, modeling, and argumentation
• Develop skills in creating diagrams, performing calculations, and designing experiments

Exam Information

• Exam Duration: 3 hours
• Sections: Multiple-choice questions (50%), Free-response questions (50%)
• Includes concepts from all units

Preparation and Resources

• Use of AP Classroom for practice and progress checks
• Encouragement of diverse materials to enhance learning experience

Appendix

• Definitions and explanations of key physics terms and models
• Equation sheet provided for exam use

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the AP Physics 1 course and exam expectations, along with principles and instructional approaches to aid in teaching and learning the subject effectively.