The Free-Response Questions (FRQs) in AP Environmental Science make up 40% of your exam score. Writing high-scoring answers requires knowing the rubric, organizing your response, and practicing with real APES FRQs.
This RevisionDojo guide will show you exactly how to approach FRQs to maximize points.
📌 Understand the APES FRQ Format
- 3 FRQs total:
- Question 1 – Data Set (graph, table, or diagram)
- Question 2 – Document-Based (often on policy or case study)
- Question 3 – Synthesis (propose solutions, justify reasoning)
- 90 minutes total – About 30 minutes per FRQ
🧾 Know the Scoring Rubric
Each FRQ has specific point categories:
- Identify/Define – Use correct terminology and definitions.
- Explain/Describe – Provide cause-effect relationships, not just facts.
- Calculate – Show all work, include units.
- Propose/Suggest – Give actionable, realistic solutions.
Pro Tip: Even partial answers can earn points. Never leave a part blank.
✍️ How to Structure Your FRQ Answer
- Restate the question in your own words.
- Answer in complete sentences (no bullet points).
- Label each part clearly (a), (b), (c), etc.
- Support with examples (laws, case studies, environmental concepts).
📊 For Data & Graph FRQs
- Identify trends before jumping to conclusions.
- Mention units, scale, and variables.
- Explain why the trend exists using scientific reasoning.
📄 For Document-Based FRQs
- Summarize the document briefly.
- Use specific environmental concepts to connect to the question.
- If discussing a policy, mention both benefits and drawbacks.
🧠 Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Writing vague answers like "pollution is bad" — be specific.
- Forgetting units in calculations.
- Skipping explanation after identification.
- Running out of time because of over-explaining one part.
🕒 FRQ Time Management
- Step 1 (2 min) – Skim the entire question.
- Step 2 (20–25 min) – Write your response in clear, labeled sections.
- Step 3 (3–5 min) – Recheck for missing parts and calculation errors.
🔍 Practice with Official FRQs
- Use College Board past APES FRQs (free online)
- Self-grade using official scoring guidelines
- Rewrite missed parts until they meet rubric expectations
💡 FAQ – APES FRQ Writing
Q: Can I write in bullet points?
A: No — the APES FRQ rubric requires complete sentences to earn points.
Q: How many examples should I give?
A: Follow the prompt — if it says “two examples,” list exactly two and explain each.
Q: Should I memorize specific environmental laws?
A: Yes — laws like the Clean Air Act and CITES often come up in FRQs.
Final Word from RevisionDojo:
FRQs reward clarity, structure, and evidence-based reasoning. If you practice with real APES questions and grade yourself honestly, you’ll be ready to score high on test day.
