APES FRQ 1: design an investigation
Sort the pieces of an experiment, then build a hypothesis.
Scenario: A school pond has more algae near a soccer field that is fertilized every spring. Students think fertilizer runoff is the cause.
Sort the experiment Tap the role of each piece.
Build the hypothesis
See a full model response (a to e)
Common mistakes
- Naming a variable with no measurement. “Algae” is vague; “algae count after 7 days” is measurable.
- Mixing up independent and dependent. Ask: what do I change, then what do I measure?
- Forgetting the control.
- A hypothesis with no “because.”
For teachers
Give students a new scenario, such as road salt and plant growth, and have them redo the sorter on paper in five minutes.
Questions people ask
What is FRQ 1 on the AP Environmental Science exam?
FRQ 1 is the design an investigation question. It gives a scenario with a model or visual and asks you to identify a hypothesis, name variables, plan a procedure, describe data, and propose a solution.
What is the difference between independent and dependent variables?
The independent variable is the one you change on purpose. The dependent variable is the one you measure to see the effect.
Why do I need a control group?
A control group is the comparison that gets no treatment. Without it you cannot tell whether the change was caused by your independent variable.
← FRQ strategy | Next: FRQ 2 →
Teaching AP Environmental Science?
The Green Flask Science™ full-year APES bundle covers all nine units with slides, guided notes, original activities, simulations, and quiz and test banks.