The New AP Physics 1 Curriculum: Key Changes
Overview
The AP Physics 1 curriculum for the 2024-2025 academic year introduces significant changes to enhance conceptual understanding, integrate modern physics topics, and improve laboratory experiences.
Curriculum Content
| Aspect | Old Curriculum | New Curriculum |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Units | 7 | 8 |
| Topics Added | Minimal modern physics | Fluids (Unit 8), deeper connections between rotational and translational motion (Unit 6), wave equations (Unit 7) |
| Laboratory Work | Supplementary experiments | Mandatory, inquiry-based experiments |
| Computational Physics | Not included | Included to understand the role of technology |
| Science Practices | Specific practices tied to objectives | Uncoupled, any practice can be tested with any objective |
New Topics Added
- Fluids: Previously in AP Physics 2, now Unit 8.
- Rotational and Translational Motion: Added connections.
- Power: Specific learning objectives added.
- Simple Harmonic Motion: Equations of motion included.
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Assessment Format
| Aspect | Old Curriculum | New Curriculum |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Format | 50 multiple-choice questions, 5 free-response questions | 40 multiple-choice questions, 4 new free-response question types |
| Question Types | Multiple-choice, multi select | Mathematical routines, translation between representations, experimental design, qualitative/quantitative translation |
| Section I (MCQs) | 90 minutes | 80 minutes |
| Section II (FRQs) | 90 minutes | 100 minutes |
Teaching Approach
| Aspect | Old Curriculum | New Curriculum |
|---|---|---|
| Teaching Method | Predominantly lecture-based | Interactive, digital simulations, virtual labs |
| Collaborative Learning | Minimal | Group projects, peer discussions |
Benefits of the New Curriculum
- Improved College Readiness: Alignment with college-level courses.
- Enhanced Critical Thinking: Focus on conceptual understanding and lab work.
- Greater Engagement: Interactive and inquiry-based learning methods.
Conclusion
The 2024-2025 AP Physics 1 curriculum revisions foster a more comprehensive and engaging learning experience. These changes aim to better prepare you for college and beyond by incorporating modern topics and enhancing practical skills.
For detailed information, visit AP Central College Board. For the full course description, refer to the College Board PDF (effective 2024).
