AP Biology FRQ Task Verbs

Identify/Provide

Indicate or provide information answering the question without elaboration or explanation. ~1 simple sentence

Describe

Provide relevant characteristics, make a statement/definition with additional information, and give an example. 1-2 complex sentences.

Explain/Discuss

Tell HOW or WHY something occurs. Make connections. Ex. “A” happens, therefore this leads to “B”. This causes “C” to occur, therefore “A” and “C” have this relationship/connection. This is typically 2-3 sentences. Use evidence and/or reasoning.

Sometimes, it is a process requiring steps in order.

Use “because” for “why” questions.

Make a Claim

Make an assertion based on evidence or knowledge. If asked to justify your claim, make sure you add “Because” or “Which leads to” in your answer to get full points!

Support a Claim

Provide reasoning to explain how the evidence supports a claim.

Justify

Provide evidence to support, qualify, or defend a claim and/or provide reasoning to explain HOW that evidence supports the claim.

Calculate

A math problem to solve. Show set-up and answer WITH UNITS; NO NAKED NUMBERS! No work shown = no credit! Does not need complete sentences, just the math!

Determine

Decide or conclude after reasoning/observation, or mathematical calculation.

Construct/Draw

Create a diagram/graph/representation/model that illustrates or explains relationships or phenomena.

Predict

Predict the causes or effects of a change in, or disruption to, one or more components in a relationship, pattern, process, or system.

State

State the null or alternative hypothesis to support or defend a claim about a scientifically testable question.

Represent

Use appropriate graphs/symbols/words/illustrations/tables to describe biological concepts, characteristics, or relationships.