Under construction! Site being updated for 2024-25 AP Physics changes

Science Practices

All AP Physics courses have the same 3 science practices to focus on, each having several skills we teach and assess. Expand each practice to see what skills are needed and find links to examples and tips for each.

Practice 1: Creating Representations

A. Create diagrams, tables, charts, or schematics to represent physical situations.

B. Graph data with appropriate scales and units.

C. Sketch graphs qualitatively

Practice 2: Mathematical Routines

A. Derive symbolic expressions from known quantities (showing a logical mathematical pathway).

B. Calculate or estimate an unknown quantity from known quantities (showing a logical mathematical pathway).

C. Compare quantities when there is a change in the scenario or at a later time in the scenario.

D. Predict new values or factors of change using functional dependence in an expression (e.g. proportional reasoning)

Practice 3: Scientific Questioning and Argumentation

A. Create experimental procedures for a given scientific question

B. Make claims using laws, definitions, or relationships.

C. Support claims using evidence from data or physical principles/laws.

Extra Support

Some skills are not assessed directly or cross boundaries between skills.

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