Exam Strategy
Readiness Check
You are ready when you can:
- Read position from x(t) and y(t) at a given t.
- Locate horizontal and vertical extrema on a stated domain.
- Find x- and y-intercepts from parametric zeros.
- Apply numerical results in a motion context.
Course vs AP Exam
Course scope only (Unit 4 additional topic; not on the AP Exam). These skills still matter for Unit 4 coursework and readiness for 4.3.
Tactics (course assessments)
1. Write x(t), y(t), and domain of t first. 2. For extrema, compare x(t) or y(t) at critical t and endpoints. 3. For intercepts, solve the correct function equal to zero. 4. Evaluate the paired coordinate at each intercept t. 5. Label features on the graph with t-values when possible.
Common Traps
- Swapping which zero gives x- vs y-intercept.
- Missing endpoint checks for extrema on closed domains.
- Reporting intercept t instead of coordinate point.
- Ignoring domain restrictions when solving for zeros.
Quick Checklist
- [ ] Position evaluated correctly at given t
- [ ] Horizontal extrema from x(t)
- [ ] Vertical extrema from y(t)
- [ ] Intercepts from correct zero equation
- [ ] Numerical results applied in context