The College Board’s CED (Curriculum and Exam Description) document is an indispensable resource for students preparing for the AP Government and Politics exam. This detailed outline provides a comprehensive roadmap for understanding the exam’s content, structure, and scoring rubrics. Mastering the CED empowers students to optimize their preparation and maximize their exam performance.
Understanding the CED
The CED divides the exam into six units, each covering a distinct aspect of American government:
- Unit 1: Constitutional Underpinnings of American Democracy
- Unit 2: Political Beliefs and Behaviors
- Unit 3: Political Parties, Interest Groups, and Mass Media
- Unit 4: Institutions of American Government: The Legislature
- Unit 5: Institutions of American Government: The Executive
- Unit 6: Institutions of American Government: The Judiciary
Each unit is further subdivided into essential knowledge components, which describe the specific content that students must master. These components outline key concepts, theories, and historical events that will be tested on the exam.
Structure and Scoring
The AP Government and Politics exam consists of two sections:
- Multiple Choice Section: Comprises 55 questions, each worth 1 point (55% of total score)
- Free Response Section: Includes four essays, ranging in point value from 3-7 points (45% of total score)
The multiple-choice section tests students’ knowledge of the essential knowledge components, while the free-response section assesses their ability to analyze and synthesize information, as well as their writing and reasoning skills.
Preparation Strategies
Thoroughly studying the CED is the foundation of effective exam preparation. Here are some valuable tips:
1. Familiarize Yourself with the Essential Knowledge Components: Review the CED carefully and identify the key concepts and theories covered in each unit.
2. Utilize CED-Aligned Resources: Seek out textbooks, online materials, and practice questions that are specifically aligned with the CED.
3. Practice with CED-Style Questions: Engage in timed practice tests to simulate the real exam experience and identify areas where further preparation is needed.
Six Essential CED Content Areas
The CED highlights six essential content areas that students must master for the exam:
- Constitutional Underpinnings: Principles of democracy, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights
- Political Culture and Ideology: American political values, ideologies, and public opinion
- Interest Groups and Political Participation: Role of interest groups, political parties, and mass media in shaping political processes
- Congress: Structure, functions, and powers of the legislative branch
- Presidency: Powers and responsibilities of the president, bureaucracy, and executive branch
- Judiciary: Role of the judiciary, including court decisions and the impact of the Constitution
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many units are covered on the AP Government and Politics exam?
Six units
2. What is the time limit for the multiple-choice section?
60 minutes
3. How many essays are included in the free-response section?
Four
4. What is the total possible score on the exam?
100 points
5. What is a passing score on the exam?
A score of 3 or higher on a scale of 1-5
6. When is the AP Government and Politics exam typically administered?
Early May
Conclusion
The AP Government CED Doc is an indispensable resource for students preparing for the AP Government and Politics exam. By thoroughly understanding the CED’s content, structure, and scoring rubrics, students can optimize their preparation, develop a comprehensive understanding of American government, and excel on the exam.
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