Writing an AP Calc Assessment 

• Include calculator and non-calculator items​

• Include multiple choice and free response items

• Write questions that reflect learning targets and success criteria

• Determine scoring rubric for FRQs before administering the assessment (see below)

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Questions to Include

• Multiple representations (graphical, numerical, analytical, verbal) of function values and behavior

• Investigation of particle motion:

• determine and compare position, velocity, and acceleration values

• determine if a particle is speeding up or slowing down

• determine if a particle is moving toward/away from the origin

• Contextual questions requiring students to compute and interpret a derivative using correct units, especially if the given function is already a rate

• Approximation of function values using linearization and tangent line applications

• Interpretation of an approximation as an underestimate or an overestimate

• Related rates problems requiring multi-step solutions

• Evaluation of a limit using L’hospital’s rule

• Calculator accessible questions requiring numerical differentiation

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Grading Tips

We recommend that you prepare a rubric for the free response items before you begin grading your quizzes or tests. Know what information is necessary for a complete and correct response and award points when a student presents that information. Many of the “Why did I get marked down?” questions are eliminated when you share the components that earn points.