AP Calculus AB Course – AP Central | College Board
Based on the Understanding by Design® (Wiggins and McTighe) model, this course framework provides a clear and detailed description of the course requirements necessary for student success. The framework specifies what students must know, be able to do, and understand, with a focus on big ideas that encompass core principles, theories, and processes of the discipline. The framework also encourages instruction that prepares students for advanced coursework in mathematics or other fields engaged in modeling change (e.g., pure sciences, engineering, or economics) and for creating useful, reasonable solutions to problems encountered in an ever-changing world.
The AP Calculus AB framework is organized into eight commonly taught units of study that provide one possible sequence for the course. As always, you have the flexibility to organize the course content as you like.
Unit
Exam Weighting (Multiple-Choice)
Unit 1: Limits and Continuity
10%–12%
Unit 2: Differentiation: Definition and Fundamental Properties
10%–12%
Unit 3: Differentiation: Composite, Implicit, and Inverse Functions
9%–13%
Unit 4: Contextual Applications of Differentiation
10%–15%
Unit 5: Analytical Applications of Differentiation
15%–18%
Unit 6: Integration and Accumulation of Change
17%–20%
Unit 7: Differential Equations
6%–12%
Unit 8: Applications of Integration
10%–15%
Mathematical Practices
The AP Calculus AB framework included in the course and exam description outlines distinct skills, called Mathematical Practices, that students should practice throughout the year—skills that will help them learn to think and act like mathematicians.
Skill
Description
1. Implementing Mathematical Processes
Determine expressions and values using mathematical processes.
2. Connecting Representations
Translate mathematical information from a single representation.
3. Justification
Justify reasoning and solutions.
4. Communication and Notation
Use correct notation, language, and mathematical conventions.
