These are some basic guidelines for writing FRQs. For help with math, read “What students need to know about the math for the AP Environmental Science Exam”
Make sure you are studying your notes, textbook and/or a review book. Some favorite review books are:
Five Steps to a Five, Barrons, or Princeton. But many others are good as well online or printed copies.
FRQ Reminders in AP Environmental Science
- Always write in complete sentences.
- Don’t write more than the question asks for.
- If the FRQ asks for two examples, only the first two examples that you write are graded.
- Introductory sentences or re-stating the question is not necessary. No points removed, but it can take precious time.
- Label each section: a. b. ci……. DO NOT write one giant paragraph and write on the lines.
- You can answer out of order—just make sure to label.
- If you write more, the graders will read them to check for contradictions, but you will not earn points. Contradictions will take away points.
FRQ Task Verbs
Identify, Provide or List: Simple answer with a complete sentence.
Describe: Needs additional information beyond a simple answer. 1-2 complex sentences.
Make a Claim: Make an assertion based on evidence or knowledge. Make sure you add “Because” or “Which leads to” in your answer to get full points
Justify: Provide evidence to support, qualify, or defend a claim and/or provide reasoning to explain HOW that evidence supports the claim.
Calculate: A math problem to solve. Show set-up and answer WITH UNITS. (Does not need complete sentence)
Explain: HOW or WHY something occurs.
- Use evidence and/or reasoning.
- Sometimes, it is a process requiring steps in order.
- Use “because” for “why” questions.
- It often requires 3 parts: This happens, which leads to, which results in.
* AP® is a trademark registered and/or owned by the College Board which was not involved in the production of, and does not endorse this site.
