The AP Exam is divided into two separately timed tests as shown in the
chart
below:
| Exam Format (Total time = 3 hours) | Section 1 | Section 2 |
| Time allowed | 80 Minutes |
10 minutes reading/organizing time 90 minutes for writing |
| Number and format of questions | 100 Multiple choice | 4 essay |
| Skills | Recall and comprehension | Reasoning and analysis |
| Concepts | Drawn from entire course; some questions will require students to apply ideas to new situations. | Broader topics; students will need to synthesize materials from several sources into a coherent essay. |
The current content and emphasis of the examination is in three areas:
Area 1. Molecules and Cells
Area 2: Genetics and Evolution
Area 3: Organisms and Populations
Section 1 (the multiple-choice section) is constructed to meet
the
following goals:
Area 1. Molecules and Cells (25% of Section l)
A. Biological chemistry
B. Cells
C. Energy transformations
Area 2. Genetics and Evolution (25% of Section l)
A. Molecular genetics
B. Heredity
C. Evolution
Area 3. Organisms and Populations(50% of Section l)
A. Principles of Taxonomy
B. Survey of Monera,Protista,and Fungi
C. Plants
D. Animals
E. Ecology
Section 2 (the free-response essay section)
Area 1. Molecules and Cells 1 essay question
Area 2. Genetics and Evolution 1 essay-question
Area 3. Organisms and Populations 2 essay questions