Step-by-Step Guide to Writing an AP Government and Politics FRQ
Step-by-Step Guide to Writing an AP Government and Politics FRQ
Step 1: Understand the Question Type
The AP Government and Politics Free-Response Questions (FRQs) fall into four categories:
Step 2: Break Down the Question
Sample FRQ Response
Question:
The U.S. Constitution establishes a system of checks and balances among the branches of government.
(A) Describe one way in which Congress can check the power of the executive branch.
(B) Explain how the judicial branch can limit the power of the executive branch.
(C) Explain how divided government can make it more difficult for the president to implement policy.
Sample Response:
(A) One way Congress can check the power of the executive branch is through the impeachment process. The House of Representatives has the power to impeach the president for "high crimes and misdemeanors," and the Senate holds the trial to determine whether to remove the president from office. This serves as a direct check on executive authority by holding the president accountable for misconduct.
(B) The judicial branch can limit the power of the executive branch by ruling executive actions unconstitutional. Through judicial review, established in Marbury v. Madison (1803), the Supreme Court has the authority to review executive orders and legislative actions. For example, in United States v. Nixon (1974), the Court ruled that President Nixon had to turn over the Watergate tapes, reinforcing the principle that no president is above the law.
(C) Divided government occurs when one party controls the presidency and the other party controls one or both houses of Congress. This can make it more difficult for the president to implement policy because opposition parties may block legislation, refuse to confirm appointments, or conduct investigations that challenge the president’s agenda. For instance, during President Obama’s second term, the Republican-controlled Congress frequently opposed his legislative proposals, limiting his ability to pass new policies.
This response directly answers each part of the question, provides specific examples, and remains clear and concise.
Step 1: Understand the Question Type
The AP Government and Politics Free-Response Questions (FRQs) fall into four categories:
- Concept Application - Apply political concepts to a real-world scenario.
- Quantitative Analysis - Interpret and analyze data from a chart, graph, or table.
- SCOTUS Comparison - Compare a required Supreme Court case to a provided case or situation.
- Argument Essay - Construct an argument using evidence and reasoning.
Step 2: Break Down the Question
- Identify key terms and commands such as "describe," "explain," "compare," or "analyze."
- Determine how many parts the question has and make sure to answer each one fully.
- Jot down main ideas and supporting details before writing.
- If an example is required, choose a relevant one from your knowledge of U.S. government and politics.
- Organize your response in a logical order that follows the question’s structure.
- Use complete sentences but avoid unnecessary filler.
- Be direct and answer the question fully.
- If a definition is required, provide a brief and precise explanation.
- Use specific examples and evidence when applicable.
- For an argument essay, include a thesis statement, supporting evidence, and counterarguments.
- Quickly review your response for clarity, grammar, and completeness.
- Ensure you have answered every part of the question.
- Confirm that your response is factually accurate.
Sample FRQ Response
Question:
The U.S. Constitution establishes a system of checks and balances among the branches of government.
(A) Describe one way in which Congress can check the power of the executive branch.
(B) Explain how the judicial branch can limit the power of the executive branch.
(C) Explain how divided government can make it more difficult for the president to implement policy.
Sample Response:
(A) One way Congress can check the power of the executive branch is through the impeachment process. The House of Representatives has the power to impeach the president for "high crimes and misdemeanors," and the Senate holds the trial to determine whether to remove the president from office. This serves as a direct check on executive authority by holding the president accountable for misconduct.
(B) The judicial branch can limit the power of the executive branch by ruling executive actions unconstitutional. Through judicial review, established in Marbury v. Madison (1803), the Supreme Court has the authority to review executive orders and legislative actions. For example, in United States v. Nixon (1974), the Court ruled that President Nixon had to turn over the Watergate tapes, reinforcing the principle that no president is above the law.
(C) Divided government occurs when one party controls the presidency and the other party controls one or both houses of Congress. This can make it more difficult for the president to implement policy because opposition parties may block legislation, refuse to confirm appointments, or conduct investigations that challenge the president’s agenda. For instance, during President Obama’s second term, the Republican-controlled Congress frequently opposed his legislative proposals, limiting his ability to pass new policies.
This response directly answers each part of the question, provides specific examples, and remains clear and concise.