AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Clarifications for 2025-26
We’ve made minor clarifications to the AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Exam beginning with the May 2026 administration.
Course Overview
AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students cultivate their understanding of physics through classroom study, in-class activity, and hands-on, inquiry-based laboratory work as they explore concepts like systems, fields, force interactions, change, and conservation.
Course and Exam Description
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AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Course and Exam Description
This is the core document for the course. Unit guides clearly lay out the course content and skills and recommend sequencing and pacing for them throughout the year.
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AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Course and Exam Description Clarifications and Corrections
This document provides teachers with clarifications and/or corrections for the AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Course and Exam Description.
Course Resources
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AP Physics 1 Course at a Glance
Excerpted from the AP Physics 1 Course and Exam Description, the Course at a Glance document outlines the topics and science practices covered in the AP Physics 1 course, along with suggestions for sequencing.
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The Difference Between AP Physics 1 and AP Physics 2
Learn the similarities and differences between these two courses and exams.
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AP Physics 1 Course at a Glance Poster
Print the Course at a Glance poster to use for reference in the classroom.
Course Content
The course framework included in the course and exam description (CED) clearly details the course requirements necessary for student success. The framework also encourages instruction that prepares students to make connections across domains through a broader way of thinking about the physical world.
The AP Physics 1 course framework is organized into eight 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.
Unit | Exam Weighting (Multiple-Choice Section) |
|---|---|
Unit 1: Kinematics | 10%–15% |
Unit 2: Force and Translational Dynamics | 18%–23% |
Unit 3: Work, Energy, and Power | 18%–23% |
Unit 4: Linear Momentum | 10%–15% |
Unit 5: Torque and Rotational Dynamics | 10%–15% |
Unit 6: Energy and Momentum of Rotating Systems | 5%–8% |
Unit 7: Oscillations | 5%–8% |
Unit 8: Fluids | 10%–15% |
Science Practices
The AP Physics 1 course framework also outlines distinct skills, called science practices, that students should practice throughout the year—skills that will help them learn to think and act like physicists.
| Practice | Skill | Exam Weighting (Multiple-Choice Section) | Exam Weighting (Free-Response Section) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Creating Representations | 1.A. Create diagrams, tables, charts, or schematics to represent physical situations. | N/A | 20%–35% |
| 1.B. Create quantitative graphs with appropriate scales and units, including plotting data. | N/A | ||
| 1.C. Create qualitative sketches of graphs that represent features of a model or the behavior of a physical system. | N/A | ||
| 2. Mathematical Routines | 2.A. Derive a symbolic expression from known quantities by selecting and following a logical mathematical pathway. | 15%–20% | 30%–40% |
| 2.B. Calculate or estimate an unknown quantity with units from known quantities, by selecting and following a logical computational pathway. | 20%–25% | ||
| 2.C. Compare physical quantities between two or more scenarios or at different times and locations in a single scenario. | 10%–15% | ||
| 2.D. Predict new values or factors of change of physical quantities using functional dependence between variables. | 10%–15% | ||
| 3. Scientific Questioning and Argumentation | 3.A. Create experimental procedures that are appropriate for a given scientific question. | N/A | 35%–45% |
| 3.B. Apply an appropriate law, definition, theoretical relationship, or model to make a claim. | 20%–25% | ||
| 3.C. Justify or support a claim using evidence from experimental data, physical representations, or physical principles or laws. | 5%–10% |
Laboratory Requirement and Lab Notebooks
Laboratory experience must be part of the education of AP Physics students and must be included in all AP Physics courses. Colleges may require students to present their laboratory materials from AP science courses before granting college credit for laboratory, so students are encouraged to retain their laboratory notebooks, reports, and other materials.
AP and Higher Education
Higher education professionals play a key role in developing AP courses and exams, setting credit and placement policies, and scoring student work. The AP Higher Education section features information on recruitment and admission, advising and placement, and more.
This chart shows recommended scores for granting credit, and how much credit should be awarded, for each AP course. Your students can look up credit and placement policies for colleges and universities on the AP Credit Policy Search.
AP Course and Exam Development
The AP Program is unique in its reliance on development committees for their initial and ongoing voice in course and exam development. These committees, made up of an equal number of college faculty and experienced secondary AP teachers from across the country, are essential to the preparation of AP course curricula and exams.
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How AP Develops Courses and Exams
Learn what the development committees do and the methodology they use to develop AP courses and exams.
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