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ap-us-government-and-politics-course-and-exam-description.pdfCourse Content
Course Content
Based on the Understanding by Design® (Wiggins and McTighe) model, this course framework provides a description of the course requirements necessary for student success. The framework specifies what students should know and be able to do, with a focus on big ideas that encompass core principles and theories of the discipline. The framework also encourages instruction that prepares students for advanced political science coursework and active, informed participation in our constitutional democracy.
The AP U.S. Government and Politics framework is organized into five commonly taught units of study that provide one possible sequence for the course. As always, you have the flexibility to organize the course content as you like.
Disciplinary Practices
Disciplinary Practices
The AP U.S. Government and Politics framework included in the CED outlines distinct skills, called disciplinary practices, that students should practice throughout the year—practices that will help them learn to think and act like political scientists.
Exam Format
Exam Format
The AP U.S. Government and Politics Exam has consistent question types, weighting, and scoring guidelines every year, so you and your students know what to expect on exam day.
Section I: Multiple Choice
Section I: Multiple Choice
55 Questions | 1 Hour 20 Minutes | 50% of Exam Score
Individual questions (no stimulus): ~30
Set-based questions
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
Section II: Free Response
Section II: Free Response
4 Questions | 1 Hour 40 Minutes | 50% of Exam Score
Concept Application: Respond to a political scenario, describe and explain the effects of a political institution, behavior, or process
Quantitative Analysis: Analyze quantitative data, identify a trend or pattern, or draw a conclusion from a visual representation and explain how it relates to a political principle, institution, process, policy, or behavior
SCOTUS Comparison: Compare a nonrequired Supreme Court case with a required Supreme Court case, explaining how information from the required case is relevant to the nonrequired one
Argument Essay: Develop an argument in the form of an essay, using evidence from required foundational documents and course concepts
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