The Free Response Questions (FRQs) in AP Biology are where students either secure their top score or lose critical points. Unlike multiple-choice questions, FRQs require clear writing, data analysis, and scientific reasoning.
This guide covers multiple FRQ examples, how they’re scored, and the strategies you need to maximize every point.
AP Biology FRQ Overview
The AP Bio FRQ section lasts 90 minutes and is worth 50% of your exam score.
Breakdown:
- 2 Long FRQs — 8–10 points each
- 4 Short FRQs — 4 points each
- Total: 6 FRQs
Types of FRQs You’ll See
- Experimental Design — Create or evaluate a lab procedure
- Concept Application — Apply biological principles to new situations
- Data Analysis — Interpret graphs, tables, or experimental results
- Process Explanation — Describe and justify biological mechanisms
Example FRQ 1 — Data Analysis
Question:
Researchers measured the rate of transpiration in plants under three light conditions: full sun, partial shade, and darkness.
Expected High-Scoring Answer:
- Observation: Transpiration rates were highest in full sun, lowest in darkness.
- Explanation: Light increases stomatal opening for photosynthesis, increasing water loss.
- Justification: Stomatal conductance correlates with environmental light levels.
Example FRQ 2 — Experimental Design
Question:
Design an experiment to test the effect of pH on enzyme activity for catalase.
Expected High-Scoring Answer:
- Hypothesis: Catalase activity is highest at pH ~7.
- Variables: Independent — pH; Dependent — rate of oxygen bubble production; Controls — temperature, substrate concentration.
- Procedure: Prepare buffer solutions of varying pH, add equal catalase and hydrogen peroxide, measure O₂ production over time.
- Expected Results: Peak activity at pH 7, decrease at extremes.
Example FRQ 3 — Process Explanation
Question:
Explain how the structure of chloroplasts supports photosynthesis.
Expected High-Scoring Answer:
- Structure: Thylakoid membranes with embedded photosystems.
- Function: Large surface area for light absorption, close proximity for electron transport.
- Outcome: Efficient conversion of light energy to chemical energy.
Top Strategies for AP Bio FRQs
- Underline Action Words — “Describe,” “explain,” “justify” each require a different approach.
- Integrate Data in Your Answer — Reference the graphs, numbers, or trends given.
- Write with the Rubric in Mind — Each point corresponds to a specific detail.
- Answer Every Part — Even partial attempts can earn points.
- Practice with Past Questions — Familiarity builds speed and confidence.
Common Mistakes in AP Bio FRQs
- Skipping parts of multi-step questions
- Overwriting without adding points-worthy content
- Forgetting units on graphs and calculations
- Providing conclusions without evidence
How RevisionDojo Helps You Master AP Bio FRQs
RevisionDojo provides:
- Complete FRQ Question Banks with real past questions
- Model High-Scoring Answers for every question type
- FRQ Grading Practice with official rubrics
- Targeted Drills for experimental design and data analysis
Plus, once your AP Bio score is in:
- University Match Quiz — Find colleges that give you credit for AP Bio.
- Universities Directory — See where your score opens doors worldwide.
FAQ – AP Bio FRQs
1. How many FRQs should I practice before the exam?
Aim for at least 15–20, with feedback and review.
2. Are FRQs graded harshly?
They’re graded to the rubric — concise, accurate answers earn points easily.
3. Can I use diagrams instead of text?
Yes, but they must be labeled and directly answer the question.
4. How much is each FRQ worth?
Long FRQs are usually 8–10 points; short ones are about 4 points each.
5. Should I guess if I don’t know the answer?
Yes — there’s no penalty, and partial credit is common.
6. Do I need to memorize labs?
You should know the purpose, methods, and expected results of all AP Bio labs.
Turn FRQs Into Your Strength with RevisionDojo
With the right prep, FRQs can be your highest-scoring section.
🎯 Take the University Match Quiz to discover schools that value your AP Bio score.
🌍 Explore the Universities Directory for global AP credit policies.
