AP Physics 1 · Exam guide
AP Physics 1 Paragraph Argument Explained: Writing a Claim, Evidence and Reasoning Answer
Some AP Physics 1 free-response parts ask for a short written argument instead of a calculation. A good answer has three pieces: a claim, evidence, and reasoning. You can practice the pattern on any topic. The example below is original.
The three pieces
| Piece | What it is |
|---|---|
| Claim | A direct answer to the question, in one sentence. |
| Evidence | The facts, data or diagram details from the problem that bear on the claim. |
| Reasoning | The physics principle or equation that connects the evidence to the claim, and why it applies here. |
A worked example
A student tosses a ball straight up. At the very top of its path, the ball is momentarily at rest. The student says the acceleration of the ball at that instant is zero. Is the student correct? Ignore air resistance.
It states a claim but gives no evidence and no physics principle.
It states the claim, uses the forces as evidence, and applies Newton's second law as reasoning.
How to write one in four sentences
- Sentence 1: the claim, as a direct answer to the question.
- Sentence 2: the evidence, such as the forces or values in the problem.
- Sentence 3: the principle or equation you apply to that evidence.
- Sentence 4: how that principle leads to the claim, including a comparison if the question asks for one.
Common mistakes
- Stating a claim with no reasoning behind it.
- Confusing velocity with acceleration, which is the most common error in motion questions.
- Using words like "because gravity" without naming the force and its direction.
- Writing a long paragraph that never answers the question that was asked.
Frequently asked questions
How long should a paragraph argument be?
Three to five sentences is usually enough. The aim is a clear chain from claim to evidence to reasoning, not length.
Do I need an equation in an argument?
Often yes. A short equation or a named law, such as Newton's second law, strengthens the reasoning.
What if I am not sure of the answer?
Give the claim you think is best and support it. A reasoned answer can earn credit even when the claim is incomplete.
Does spelling and grammar count?
Graders look at the physics, but a sentence has to be clear enough to follow.
Where can I find the official scoring rules?
Exam formats change a little from year to year, so check the current course and exam description on the College Board site before test day.
Keep practicing
Every lesson in the AP Physics 1 course ends with practice items and an Exam focus box, and every unit has a ten-question practice set with worked answers. These free lessons also build the skills the free-response section tests:
See the AP Physics 1 course Free lessons and lesson list
Other free-response guides:
- AP Physics 1 FRQ Guide: Experimental Design, Translation and Written Arguments
- AP Physics 1 Experimental Design Question Explained: How to Plan an Experiment and Use the Data
- AP Physics 1 Qualitative/Quantitative Translation Explained: Connecting Equations and Explanations
AP is a registered trademark of the College Board, which is not affiliated with and does not endorse this site. This guide is our own explanation of the question types and scoring. For the official scoring guidelines, see the College Board.