Overview of the AP Exam and Keys to AP Exam Success
Format of the Exam
Section I: Multiple Choice I 55 Questions I 1 Hour and 20 Minutes I 50% of Exam Score
· Quantitative Analysis: Analysis and application of quantitative-based source material
· Qualitative Analysis: Analysis and application of text-based (primary and secondary) sources
· Visual Analysis: Analysis and application of qualitative visual information
· Concept Application: Explanation of the application of political concepts in context
· Comparison: Explanation of the similarities and differences of political concepts
· Knowledge: Identification and definition of political principles, processes, institutions, and behaviors
Section II: Free Response I 4 Questions I 1 Hour and 40 Minutes I 50% of Exam Score
· Concept Application – 20 minutes suggested – 12.5%
Respond to a political scenario, explaining how it relates to a political institution, behavior, or process
· Quantitative Analysis - 20 minutes suggested – 12.5%
Analyze quantitative data, identify a trend or pattern, draw a conclusion for the visual representation, and explain how it relates to a political institution, behavior, or process
· Supreme Court Case Comparison - 20 minutes suggested – 12.5%
Compare a non required Supreme Court case with a required Supreme Court case, explaining how information from the required case is relevant to that in the non required one
· Argumentative Essay - 40 minutes suggested – 12.5%
Develop an argument in the form of an essay, using evidence from one or more required foundational documents