AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based – Course and Exam Description

Introduction

AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based is a college-level introductory physics course designed for high school students. The course emphasizes foundational principles of classical mechanics and develops students' abilities to reason about physical phenomena using scientific practices such as explaining relationships, applying mathematical routines, designing experiments, analyzing data, and making connections across multiple topics.

Course Framework

Course Structure and Units

The course is organized into several major units, each focusing on a core area of physics. Each unit is further divided into topics that build conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills.

• Unit 1: Kinematics – Describes motion in one and two dimensions, including concepts of displacement, velocity, acceleration, and reference frames.

• Unit 2: Force and Translational Dynamics – Covers Newton's laws, free-body diagrams, friction, gravitational and spring forces, and circular motion.

• Unit 3: Work, Energy, and Power – Explores kinetic and potential energy, work, conservation of energy, and power.

• Unit 4: Linear Momentum – Focuses on momentum, impulse, conservation of momentum, and collisions.

• Unit 5: Torque and Rotational Dynamics – Introduces rotational kinematics, torque, rotational inertia, and equilibrium.

• Unit 6: Energy and Momentum of Rotating Systems – Examines rotational kinetic energy, angular momentum, and conservation laws for rotating systems.

• Unit 7: Oscillations – Discusses simple harmonic motion, frequency, period, and energy in oscillatory systems.

• Unit 8: Fluids – Covers properties of fluids, pressure, buoyancy, and fluid dynamics.

Science Practices

The course integrates science practices that are essential for scientific inquiry and problem-solving:

• Modeling – Creating and using representations of physical systems.

• Mathematical Routines – Applying algebraic and quantitative reasoning to solve problems.

• Experimental Design – Planning and conducting experiments, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions.

• Argumentation – Justifying claims with evidence and reasoning.

Laboratory Requirement

Students are expected to engage in hands-on laboratory investigations, which are essential for developing experimental skills and understanding physical concepts. The course recommends a minimum number of lab hours and provides guidance on setting up and conducting experiments safely.

Exam Information

Exam Structure

• Multiple-Choice Section – Assesses conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills across all units.

• Free-Response Section – Includes questions requiring experimental design, data analysis, and qualitative/quantitative translation.

Students are allowed to use scientific or graphing calculators on both sections of the exam.

Sample Task Verbs

• Calculate – Perform mathematical computations.

• Justify – Provide reasoning or evidence for a claim.

• Represent – Use diagrams, graphs, or equations to model physical situations.

• Design – Plan an experiment or procedure.

Appendix: Key Equations and Concepts

The course provides a table of essential equations and definitions. Students are expected to understand and apply these equations in various contexts.

• Kinematics:

• Newton's Second Law:

• Work:

• Kinetic Energy:

• Potential Energy (gravitational):

• Momentum:

• Impulse:

• Rotational Kinematics:

• Torque:

• Rotational Inertia:

• Angular Momentum:

• Simple Harmonic Motion:

• Pressure:

Table: Major Units and Topics

Additional Info

• Prerequisites: Algebra II or equivalent mathematical background is recommended.

• College Credit: Many colleges and universities offer credit or advanced placement for qualifying AP Physics 1 exam scores.

• Equity and Access: The course is designed to be accessible to a diverse range of students, with a focus on supporting underrepresented groups in STEM.