AP Physics
As one of the students looking for advanced placement (AP) classes; the first thing is to check and choose the right one. The AP course that deals with the subject you prefer and provides quality learning should be your target. You need to be well informed about the course, teachers, and the academy providing them. If it is the AP Physics classes then you should learn everything you should know about it.
Is AP physics the hardest AP?
AP Physics 1 is one of the most difficult AP classes. This class blends physics, scientific inquiry and algebra. It covers topics such as Newtonian mechanics, electrical charge and force. Students spend approximately 25% of their time doing college-level lab experiments, and 25% writing reports.
The AP test consists five questions with no response and 50 multiple-choice (MCQs). Students are asked to solve mathematical equations, explain physical phenomena, design experiments, and interpret conceptual models.
What does AP Physics 1 cover?
Students enrolled in AP Physics 1 courses will be exposed to university-level introductory physics content that is rooted in algebra. Before beginning AP Physics 1, learners typically take algebra II and geometry courses.
The students will be taught the fundamental scientific practices that are applicable to physics and other scientific disciplines. These scientific practices include scientific questioning, modeling, data analysis, and experimental methods. 25% of the class time is spent in experiential lab work. Topics covered in AP Physics 1 courses include:
- Kinematics
- Dynamics
- Gravitation and circular motion
- Energy and momentum
- Simple harmonic motion
- Torque and rotational motion
- Systems and fields
- Force interactions
- Change
- Conservation
What is the difficulty of AP Physics 1? Three Key Factors
Students often ask this question before enrolling in an AP class. There are many factors that determine the difficulty level of AP Physics. Continue reading to learn about three factors that can help you gauge the difficulty of an AP course.
The Pass Rate
Pass rates are often the most important indicator of how difficult AP Physics 1 is. The objective test data provides a clear indication of how many students are successful and who receive perfect scores. Students can compare the pass rates for other AP classes to get a better idea of how these courses stack up.
The table below shows that AP Physics 1 is significantly more difficult than the average of all AP classes. Students who take AP Physics 1 receive perfect and passing scores at a much lower rate than the average.
| AP CLASS/EXAM | PASS RATE (3 OR MORE) | PERFECT SCORE ((5) |
|---|---|---|
| AP Physics | 51.6% | 8.8% |
| All AP Classes | 71.13% | 19.57% |
Source: College Board
Other factors can have a significant impact on student performance. Although AP Physics 1 is difficult, data shows that other factors like teacher efficacy or student support can have a significant impact on pass rates.
The Course Material
The seven units that make up AP Physics 1 are logically arranged so that future topics can build on the previous content. Teachers break down the units into digestible topics, starting with kinematics and ending in torque and rotational movement.
Students will not only learn about the units but also explore deeper foundational topics like systems, force interactions and fields. Students are familiar with scientific methods such as argumentation, scientific questioning and experimental methods before they complete the course.
Your subject skills
Each student has a different set of skills. One student may excel in a AP History course but struggle in AP Physics 1. Students who excel in AP Physics 1 are comfortable in science and math classes. A reliable indicator of AP Physics 1 readiness is solid grades in prerequisites such as geometry and algebra II.
Is AP Physics 1 or C better?
Are you interested to take AP Physics? You may have noticed that there are several physics courses in the AP program. What’s the difference in the AP Physics classes – AP Physics 1, AP Physics 2 and AP Physics C? Let us tell you and help you choose.
What AP Physics Classes are Offered?
The AP Program offered three physics classes: AP Physics B and AP Physics C. Mechanics.
AP Physics B was replaced by AP Physics B. It is a one-year course with two courses: AP Physics 1 or AP Physics 2. Both courses are algebra-based physics courses. They don’t require a background in math beyond Algebra II.
AP Physics C is still offered by the AP program . This course and exam are broken down into Physics C and Physics C: Electricity, Magnetism. Schools may teach both these classes or only one topic. Both courses are calculus-based.
There are now four AP Physics examinations.
- AP Physics 1
- AP Physics 2
- AP Physics C: Magnetism and Electricity
- AP Physics C: Mechanics
It can be confusing to know that there are four AP Physics exams. Do you choose Physics 1 and Physics 2 in the correct order? What is new in Physics 1 and Physics 2 respectively? We’ll introduce you to each course and help you choose the right class for you.
AP Physics 1
AP Physics 1 is an introductory college-level physics course. It covers basic physics concepts such as motion, force and Newtonian mechanics, gravity and energy.
AP Physics 1 was created to be a first year physics course that you can take with no prior physics experience.
Although technicallyaren’t prerequisites to AP Physics 1, AP recommends that students take at least one course in geometry and simultaneously enroll in Algebra II. You may want to take another science class if you aren’t proficient in math, since math is essential in physics.
AP Physics 2
AP Physics 2 is also an algebra-based college-level physics course. It covers more advanced topics than Physics 1.
Physics 2 is about fluid statics and dynamics as well as thermodynamics with Kinetic Theory, PV diagrams, probability and electrostatics. It also covers electrical circuits with capacitors and magnetic fields, electromagnetism and physical and geometric optics.
AP Physics 2 is a second-year physics class. It should be taken after AP Physics 1 and any other first-year physics courses. It is very similar to the AP Physics B course. This class will cover advanced physics skills, such as fluid dynamics, electric currents and magnetism.
The complete descriptions of AP Physics 1 & 2 can be found at the College Board’s AP site.
AP Physics C, Mechanics and AP Physics C, Electricity and Magnetism
Both AP Physics C courses use calculus, which means you must have taken calculus before you can take Physics C. This is what makes Physics C more difficult than Physics 1 or 2.
Additionally, AP Physics C demands that students be enrolled in or have taken calculus.
What is the difference between AP Physics C. Mechanics vs AP Physics C. Electricity and Magnetism, you ask?
Mechanics includes kinematics, Newton’s laws of motion, work and energy, power, rotation, oscillations, gravitation, and circular motion. These concepts are similar to Physics 1 but this course uses calculus and goes in greater depth.
The topics of Electricity and Magnetism include conductors and capacitors, conductors and dielectrics as well as electromagnetism and magnetic fields. There is some overlap with Physics 2, but Physics C will be more challenging since it includes calculus.
These two topics can sometimes be taught together despite the fact that there are two exams. Each topic is taught over one semester. When taught in a single class, Mechanics comes first and Electricity and magnetism second.
Schools that only teach one topic tend to focus on mechanics. This is because it builds upon material taught in beginning physics classes like Newton’s laws, energy and work, etc.
Each topic should be equivalent to one semester college calculus-based physics. This is why AP Physics C is strongly recommended as a first-year physics course. You don’t need to take Physics 1 or Physics 2 before taking Physics C. However, you can take one (or both!) of these courses! It is recommended to take introductory physics classes.
The AP website has a complete description of Physics C.
Need help studying for the AP exam?
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Which AP Physics Class Should I Take?
You’re probably curious about which class to take now that you have some knowledge of the different AP Physics classes. You might also be wondering which order the classes should be taken if you are interested in taking more than one.
We’ll show you some possible sequences but also provide steps to follow-up with your school so that you can pick the best class for you.
Option 1: Regular/Honors Physics. Then AP Physics 2.
If your school does not offer AP Physics 1 (or you don’t want the first physics course you take to be an AP), then you have two options. One is to begin with a regular or honours physics class where you will learn basic concepts of physics. You can then take AP Physics 2 to complete your second physics course.
This is a great option for students whose schools do not offer multiple AP Physics courses, or students who are unable to commit to taking multiple AP Physics courses. Physics 2 (or Honors Physics) is the best AP Physics class after a regular or honours physics class. Physics 1 would basically repeat what you have already learned. If you are taking/have taken calculus, and have Physics 1 or 2 under your belt, AP Physics C may be an option.
Option 2: AP Physics 1 and then AP Physics 2.
According to the College Board, students who are required to complete a science requirement, but not as their major, should consider taking Physics 1 or 2.
If your school teaches AP Physics 2, but not AP Physics 1 you can simply replace AP Physics 1 by any introduction to physics course offered by your school. Do not jump into AP Physics 2 – it’s meant as a second-year physics course.
If your school teaches AP Physics 1 only, but not AP Physics 2 you can take Physics 1 and then choose another course in natural science (including chemistry) or a science elective. If your school offers AP Physics C, you might also consider it.
Option 3: AP Physics 1 and then AP Physics C
AP recommends Physics C for students who are aiming to major in engineering or physical science. However, taking AP Physics 1 and might be too much. You would have to miss chemistry and biology . It is crucial to be exposed to all three sciences in high school, especially if you are interested in engineering or science. It is also important to ensure that you are able to take at least one of the or AP Calculus classes.
If you are interested in taking Physics C, you should start with AP Physics 1 or a regular physics class, and then move on to AP Physics C. This will give you two physics classes while high school.
Physics C is meant to be taken as a course in the second year. Don’t rush into it. You should also ensure that you have taken calculus or are currently taking it while you take AP Physics C.
Next steps
You now have a better understanding of the AP Physics courses and their order. What should you do? This section outlines the five steps that you should take.
#1: Expert guidance
First, meet with your guidance counselor to find out which physics courses are taught at your school.
Are they able to offer both AP Physics 1 & AP Physics 2 or just a basic introductory physics course. Is AP Physics C taught by them? Do they teach Mechanics or Electricity and Magnetism? These answers are the first step in planning your schedule.
Keep in mind, however, that Physics 1 and Physics 2 may still be being taught by schools.
#2: Double-check the Course Sequence
Discuss the recommended sequence of physics courses at your school with your advisor during the meeting.
You might need to take prerequisite courses or pass placement tests in order to enroll in AP Physics courses. Your school may also recommend a sequence of science classes that includes biology or chemistry.
#3: Research Your Teachers
Ask your counselor to ask other students teaching AP Physics at your school. Ask other students taking AP Physics about their teacher and how well prepared they are for the AP exam. Ask your counselor about the AP Physics pass rate at your school.
Understanding the school’s curriculum can help you make a decision about AP Physics. My high school had a lot of independent learning and self-studying. This was great for self-motivated students, but it was challenging for those who needed more help. Many students made their decision about whether or not they wanted to take AP Physics based upon whether they felt they could handle the independent nature.
#4: Take a look at the Syllabi
If you are unsure whether you want to take AP Physics, you can look at the course syllabi. This will give you an idea of what topics and how much work they cover. This could help you decide between AP Physics 1 or AP Physics 2. Or AP Physics C or 2.
#5: Summer Homework Check
Summer assignments are common in AP courses. AP Physics C is likely to include summer assignments, especially if you teach both subjects. Before signing up, make sure you consider your summer schedule and commitments (such as jobs, trips, camps, etc.).
Bottom line
If you’re a future engineer, natural sciences major or a future engineer, aim to take AP Physics C. However, it should be taken alongside or after calculus. If Physics C is not offered at your school, you should take honors physics or AP Physics 2. If you don’t plan to study engineering or natural sciences, AP Physics 1 and Physics 2 are sufficient.
If college engineering is something you’re interested in but you’re not sure if it’s the right choice for you, AP Physics C might be a great way to test your skills and learn about the topics that you will continue exploring in college.
What is the best time to take AP Physics 1?
Most students enroll in AP Physics 1 after they have completed standard prerequisites such as algebra II and geometry. Students who have not completed their high school education in the first two years may not be able to succeed in this college-level class.
AP Physics 1 is consistently ranked as the most challenging AP class. This means that some students may find it difficult to complete additional AP coursework. Students need to evaluate their workloads and create a schedule that is both challenging and manageable.
What you need to know about the AP Physics 1 Exam
A student can earn college credit by passing the AP Physics 1 exam. This section explains how the exam works, what scores students need, and what they should do to earn college credit.
| EXAM SCORE | NUMBER OF STUDENTS | PERCENTAGE OF STUDENTS |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 13,217 | 8.8% |
| 4 | 26,823 | 17.9% |
| 3 | 37,129 | 24.8% |
| 2 | 39,581 | 26.5% |
| 1 | 32,738 | 21.9% |
Source: College Board
How is the AP Physics 1 Exam Structured
The AP Physics 1 exam lasts three hours and includes two sections. There are multiple-choice and a free-response written sections. 50 questions make up the multiple-choice portion of the exam. It is worth 50%. The multiple-choice section is timed at 90 minutes.
Students must answer five questions in writing within 90 minutes to be eligible for the free-response section of the AP Physics 1 exam. This section tests students’ knowledge in quantitative and qualitative translation, as well as experimental design.
- Section I: 50 multiple-choice questions (90 minutes)
- Section II: 5 free-response questions (90 minutes)
What Scores is the AP Physics 1 Exam?
Students who take the AP Physics 1 exam will receive scores ranging from 1-5, just like all other AP exams. A score of 5 equals a perfect score, and less than 9% of students took the exam in May 2020. Each section of this exam, multiple choice and free answer, makes up half of the exam score.
Each section of the exam presents different challenges. Some students will do well in the free-response portion of the exam due to their writing skills. Others may find the written section more difficult. Prioritizing the areas of the exam that are most difficult is a good way to prepare for the exam.
| Section 1 | 50% |
|---|---|
| Multiple-choice questions | 50% |
| Section 2 | 50% |
| Free-Response Experimental Design Question | 13.36% |
| Free-Response Qualitative/Quantitative Translation Question | 13.36% |
| Free-Response Paragraph Argument Question | 7.78% |
| (2) Free-Response Questions with Short Answers | 15.56% |
Source: College Board
AP Physics 1: What score do I need to earn college credit?
While the minimum score required to get college credit is different for each school, they all require at most a score of 3. Most schools will accept scores between 3 and 4, but some schools may require scores higher than 3.
College Board has a handy search engine for students who are curious about the score they should earn to be eligible to attend school. It aggregates a large number of schools along with their AP score requirements.
Should I take AP Physics 1 or not?
AP Physics 1 is ranked as one of the most challenging AP courses. Prospective students often question whether the course is worth the potential hit on their GPA. Students who have done well in prerequisite coursework and excelled in STEM classes are known as successful AP Physics 1.
Students who are trying to decide which AP classes should they take can look at the pass rates for AP exams and learn about the topics covered in this course. Students with AP Physics 1 can also contact the instructor to get more information.
Frequently Asked Questions about AP Physics 1
Is AP Physics 1 worth it?
Which is harder AP chem or AP Physics?
Are colleges concerned about AP Physics 1 in college?
What are the AP Classes?
To start with you have to understand what the AP classes are.
- Advanced placement (AP) programs are created by the College Board.
- It aims to provide college standard curriculum for the high school students.
- Every type of these classes is designed on specific subjects. For instance; the AP Physics classes are designed for learning physics only.
- Each of the courses has an examination where students get scores in the range of 1-5.
How AP Classes Work?
As already stated above; the advanced placement classes creates opportunities for the students to complete college-level studies when they are still in the High Schools. The classes are available online also. Students securing high scores are offered college credits as well as placements by the universities in the United States. The universities prefer to give such facilities to students securing scores of 4 and 5 in the advanced placement exam.
AP Physics in USA
In the United States, the AP Physics courses refer to a group of courses. Any of these courses can be termed as the Advanced Placement Physics course. The courses are as follows.
- AP Physics 1
- AP Physics 2
- AP Physics C: Mechanics
- AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism
The AP Physics 1 Class
The Advanced Placement Physics 1 classes have the following features.
- It is an algebra-based introductory university level course.
- The classes adopt inquiry-based research method for understanding physics
- Students get the opportunities to explore topics like kinematics, motions, energy, gravitation, dynamics, electric charges, and a host of others.
- The course is designed to devote 25% of the class times for hands-on practical lab works.
The AP Physics 2 Classes
AP Physics 2 is similar to the structure of the Physics 1 classes. The methodology is also the same. However; the topics covered are thermodynamics, fluids, magnetism, and atomic and nuclear physics among others. It is also a year-round course. Students that have completed the Physics 1 course are eligible to take this course.
The AP Physics C: Mechanics Course
This one is a calculus-based college level physics course. It covers topics like momentum, motion, rotation, gravitation, energy, power, and particle systems among others. It is equivalent to a second year physics course. Students have to take a calculus course to be eligible for this program. Preparing a lab notebook is mandatory for every student.
The AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism Classes
This calculus-based program is designed for students aiming for physical science of engineering career. This college-level program covers the topics like electrostatics, capacitors, conductors, magnetic fields, and circuits among others. It is also a second year physics course. Students must have completed or continuing a course on calculus to be eligible for this AP Physics program.
(AP Physics: All you need to know | ReWiser)
Advanced Placement (AP) Exams
Your learning of physics and related topics is necessary to pass out in the AP Physics exam securing good scores. Passing out the exam with a perfect score of 5 or at least a score of 4 can earn you valuable college credits or placement or both. The exam is conducted in May every year. This year’s exams are already over. But the dates for the year 2023 have already been announced. They will start on the 12th May onwards. You have to decide the exam out of the 4 you are going to appear.
Your Options on Exams
The following facts indicate the situation-based options you have on appearing in an AP Physics exam. An example of the situational solutions is when your school does not provide multiple Advanced Physics classes or you are not interested in taking multiple classes. You can start by appearing in the Physics 1 exam. Also; you can add up by appearing in the Physics 2 exam.
Top of Form
Bottom of Form
(Tutela | All You Need To Know About Advanced Placement (AP) Physics (tutelaprep.com))
AP Physics FAQ
Source: Albert
To avoid any confusion regarding the course and AP Physics exams. It will be good to check the frequently asked questions on it. You can get an idea from the following questions asked on the Advanced Placement Physics courses and exams.
- Is the course easy or hard?
- Is the course and exam worth it?
- When will be the courses and exams held?
- What is the average score secured by the students in the previous years?
- What is the format of the course and exams?
- Can practice courses and exams help me to fare better in the main exam?
There are many others but these are the commonly asked questions by students and even their parents.
Preparing for the Exam
Like any other program, you must prepare well for facing the AP Physics exam. You can make the best preparation by selecting a comprehensive course and a quality provider. An especially important step for you will be to check the track record of the provider and the performance of the trainers of Physics. All the physics exams for Advanced Placements are difficult and you must be careful in your selection.
(AP® Physics 1 FAQ: Everything You Need to Know for 2022 | Albert Resources)
AP Physics Exam Dates 2023
Source: prepscholars.com
AP exams for the current year are already over. It is now time to prepare for the year 2023. In the above background; the exam calendar for the year will be very useful. It will help you to prepare for the exams without disrupting your regular study schedule. It has been announced that the exams for the year 2023 shall be conducted with paper and pencil in May 1-5 and 8-12 for different courses. Incidentally; all the AP Physics exams are scheduled to be held during Ma 8-12 in the afternoon sessions.
(AP Test Dates 2023: Complete Calendar (prepscholar.com))
Changes in the AP Physics exam schedules due to Coid19 and other such pandemics may occur. No such announcement has been made by the Board as yet. You should regularly monitor the calendar of exams regularly to stay informed.
References:
Word Count: 1102
Keywords: AP Physics
Things You Should Know about AP Physics Classes
As one of the students looking for advanced placement (AP) classes; the first thing is to check and choose the right one. The AP course that deals with the subject you prefer and provides quality learning should be your target. You need to be well informed about the course, teachers, and the academy providing them. If it is the AP Physics classes then you should learn everything you should know about it.
What are the AP Classes?
Source: skillshare.com
To start with you have to understand what the AP classes are.
- Advanced Placement (AP) programs are created by the College Board.
- It aims to provide college standard curriculum for high school students.
- Every type of these classes is designed on specific subjects. For instance; AP Physics classes are designed for learning physics only.
- Each of the courses has an examination where students get scores in the range of 1-5.
How do AP Classes work?
Source: study.com
As already stated above; the advanced placement classes creates opportunities for the students to complete college-level studies when they are still in the High Schools. The classes are available online also. Students securing high scores are offered college credits as well as placements by the universities in the United States. The universities prefer to give such facilities to students securing scores of 4 and 5 in the advanced placement exam.
AP Physics in the USA
In the United States, AP Physics courses refer to a group of courses. Any of these courses can be termed as the Advanced Placement Physics course. The courses are as follows.
- AP Physics 1
- AP Physics 2
- AP Physics C: Mechanics
- AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism
The AP Physics 1 Class
The Advanced Placement Physics 1 classes have the following features.
- It is an algebra-based introductory university level course.
- The classes adopt inquiry-based research method for understanding physics
- Students get the opportunities to explore topics like kinematics, motions, energy, gravitation, dynamics, electric charges, and a host of others.
- The course is designed to devote 25% of the class times for hands-on practical lab works.
The AP Physics 2 Classes
AP Physics 2 is similar to the structure of the Physics 1 classes. The methodology is also the same. However; the topics covered are thermodynamics, fluids, magnetism, and atomic and nuclear physics among others. It is also a year-round course. Students that have completed the Physics 1 course are eligible to take this course.
The AP Physics C: Mechanics Course
This one is a calculus-based college-level physics course. It covers topics like momentum, motion, rotation, gravitation, energy, power, and particle systems among others. It is equivalent to a second year physics course. Students have to take a calculus course to be eligible for this program. Preparing a lab notebook is mandatory for every student.
The AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism Classes
This calculus-based program is designed for students aiming for physical science of engineering career. This college-level program covers the topics like electrostatics, capacitors, conductors, magnetic fields, and circuits among others. It is also a second year physics course. Students must have completed or continuing a course on calculus to be eligible for this AP Physics program.
(AP Physics: All you need to know | ReWiser)
Advanced Placement (AP) Exams
Your learning of physics and related topics is necessary to pass out in the AP Physics exam securing good scores. Passing out the exam with a perfect score of 5 or at least a score of 4 can earn you valuable college credits or placement or both. The exam is conducted in May every year. This year’s exams are already over. But the dates for the year 2023 have already been announced. They will start on the 12th May onwards. You have to decide the exam out of the 4 you are going to appear.
Your Options on Exams
The following facts indicate the situation-based options you have on appearing in an AP Physics exam. An example of the situational solutions is when your school does not provide multiple Advanced Physics classes or you are not interested in taking multiple classes. You can start by appearing in the Physics 1 exam. Also; you can add up by appearing in the Physics 2 exam.
AP Physics FAQ
To avoid any confusion regarding the course and AP Physics exams. It will be good to check the frequently asked questions on it. You can get an idea from the following questions asked on the Advanced Placement Physics courses and exams.
- Is the course easy or hard?
- Is the course and exam worth it?
- When will be the courses and exams held?
- What is the average score secured by the students in the previous years?
- What is the format of the course and exams?
- Can practice courses and exams help me to fare better in the main exam?
There are many others but these are the commonly asked questions by students and even their parents.
Preparing for the AP Physics Exam
Like any other program, you must prepare well for facing the AP Physics exam. You can make the best preparation by selecting a comprehensive course and a quality provider. An especially important step for you will be to check the track record of the provider and the performance of the trainers of Physics. All the physics exams for Advanced Placements are difficult and you must be careful in your selection.
(AP® Physics 1 FAQ: Everything You Need to Know for 2022 | Albert Resources)
AP Physics Exam Dates 2023
Source: prepscholars.com
AP exams for the current year are already over. It is now time to prepare for the year 2023. In the above background; the exam calendar for the year will be very useful. It will help you to prepare for the exams without disrupting your regular study schedule. It has been announced that the exams for the year 2023 shall be conducted with paper and pencil in May 1-5 and 8-12 for different courses. Incidentally; all the AP Physics exams are scheduled to be held during Ma 8-12 in the afternoon sessions.(AP Test Dates 2023: Complete Calendar (prepscholar.com))
AP Physics exam schedules due to Covid19 and other such pandemics may occur. No such announcement has been made by the Board as yet. You should regularly monitor the calendar of exams regularly to stay informed.
References:
- AP Physics: All you need to know | ReWiser
- Tutela | All You Need To Know About Advanced Placement (AP) Physics (tutelaprep.com)
- AP® Physics 1 FAQ: Everything You Need to Know for 2022 | Albert Resources
- AP Test Dates 2023: Complete Calendar (preps com)
- AP Physics: All you need to know | ReWiser
- Tutela | All You Need To Know About Advanced Placement (AP) Physics (tutelaprep.com)
- AP® Physics 1 FAQ: Everything You Need to Know for 2022 | Albert Resources
- AP Test Dates 2023: Complete Calendar (preps com)
You can check out my post on AP Biology.
You can also check out my post on AP Environmental Science.
