Annotated List of Assessments Utilized in AP Physics C and AP Calculus BC

1. FCI Force Concept Inventory: The FCI is an important assessment used in physics classrooms
around the country to evaluate student learning regarding Newtons Laws. The test is a purely
conceptual evaluation of students understanding of Newtonian thinking as applied to basic
physics situations. There is a vast amount of data from colleges, universities, and high schools
regarding the FCI, and the results of the assessment are extremely useful for planning
instruction. The assessment is useful both as an entry-level assessment, and as a post-test after
instruction in Newtons Laws.

2. MBTMechanics Baseline Test: The MBT is another important assessment used in physics
classrooms around the country to evaluate student learning regarding Newtonian Mechanics.
The test is both conceptual and quantitative in nature, and is useful in informing instruction in
Newtonian Mechanics. The assessment is available with a vast amount of data from colleges,
universities and high schools. The assessment is useful as a summative evaluation of Newtonian
Mechanics knowledge.

3. Past Released AP Exams: Both AP Calculus BC and AP Physics C teachers depend heavily on past
AP exams to evaluate student readiness for the actual AP exam in May. Past AP exams test a
wide range of physics and calculus concepts, and can be used to identify specific areas of
weakness and strength for students. These results can inform review instruction so that all
students have met course content objectives.

4. Guided Inquiry Questions: Guided inquiry questions are provided by the instructor to groups of
students. Students work on answering the questions in their groups, and writing up clear
solutions to these questions. These questions are formative assessments that evaluate student
understanding of lesson concepts, and identify where additional instruction or intervention may
be necessary.

5. Web Assign Homework: Online homework is a useful formative assessment where the instructor
can monitor student progress on individual questions, and formulate instructional strategies to
help students more fully meet learning objectives.

6. Khan Academy/Blended Learning: Khan academy provides formative assessments where

students are given a wide range of questions on a topic, and the system evaluates student
progress, and sends information on student progress to the students teacher. The system also
provides students with additional instruction in areas where the student displays lack of
understanding or has not yet met content objectives.