AP Psychology Review
AP Psychology Review
Free Response Section
Test Structure
2 Free Response (Essay) Questions
Required to do both
Free Response Section
Time Structure
50 minutes to complete both essays
Can break up your time on the essays
any way you want
Watch your time. Don’t get caught
short on essay #2
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Scoring
Essays are 1/3 of the overall score
Each essay 1/6 of the overall score
Each essay will have a specific number
of points (6-12)
Points are then mathematically changed
to equal 25 for a perfect essay
Free Response Section
Style of the Questions
One essay tends to be unit based
One essay tends to go across units
Questions tend to be relatively specific
Application questions with listing of terms
Free Response Question 2009 #1
1. Dimitri and Linda are trying to learn a new routine to
compete successfully in a dance competition. Give an
example of how each of the following could affect their
performance. Definitions without application do not
score.
• Extrinsic motivation
• Punishment
• Proactive interference
• Endorphins
• Vestibular system
• Divergent thinking
• Introversion
7 points
Free Response Question 2009 #22. James is in a driver’s education course preparing to take his driving
test. The course includes both book work and driving on the road to prepare students for a written test and a road test.
(a) Describe how each of the following might influence his ability to drive a car during the road test. Definitions without application do not score.
• Cognitive map
• Cerebellum
• Observational learning
• Human factors
(b) Describe how each of the following are related to the results of the written test. Definitions without application do not score.
• Reticular formation
• Predictive validity
• Semantic memory
7 points
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Scoring
Points are given for correct responses
Points are not removed unless you
contradict yourself
Points are not removed for Handwriting/
Spelling/Grammar issues
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Helpful Hints – Before Writing
Read both essays
Think through your answer before you
start writing. Prewrite!!!
Try to determine the point values for the
question
Write an outline/notes on the essay
question sheet
If you are not sure take a logical guess.
Free Response Section
Writing the Essays
Format of the Answer
Write your answers in essay form.
DO NOT outline, write bullets, etc.
Follow the format of the the question.
Use paragraphs to separate the different
sections
Underline key points and concepts
Define and give examples
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Writing the Essays
Do not worry if you cannot answer all of
the question.
Try to avoid compound or complex
sentences. Style does not get you points.
Avoid circular definitions.
Be complete but to the point.
DO NOT restate the question.
Free Response Section
Writing the Essays
Introductions and conclusions are NOT
needed.
DO NOT concept bomb the answer.
Answer the question, don’t try to be cute.
Define any concepts in the question.
Free Response Section
Below is the link to the rubric for the 2009 FRQs
http://apcentral.collegeboard.com/apc/public/repository/ap09_psychology_sgs.pdf