On the first day of school, I used to explain the job of a carpenter to my students. There are an infinite number of things a carpenter may be asked to build – not only what they’re building, but also the size, shape, color, and texture of it. If someone asked “can you build a red table with height X, width W, and length L?", would the carpenter say, “no, I have not built a table of that color and with those exact dimensions before"?  No!  He knows how to use the brush, saw, hammer and nails, and he can build whatever is asked.

I use this analogy when preparing kids for end-of-year AP Physics tests. Yes, it is good to get your hands on every problem you can. Yes, it is good to try actual, old AP problems. Yes, AP workbooks are helpful. But know that the questions on this year’s AP test will undoubtedly be a little different than the questions they’ve put out before. They have to be! And if your student doesn’t understand each of the physics rules and how to apply them, then they’ll be no more prepared than the carpenter that can only build things previously built before.

​This website breaks down each of the tools your student will need in detail. Every equation and concept needed on the algebra-based, AP Physics 1 exam is covered. I have broken down the entire curriculum into 5-minute (or less) intervals, immediately followed with a short worksheet (with included answer key) to assist with mastery. Each major topic is followed with a review video, as well as a practice exam, which contains sample multiple choice and free response questions. And these videos aren't just for AP Physics 1! They will assist a student with any algebra-based physics course, and higher-level physics students can benefit from establishing a solid foundation.

There are many ways to teach physics concepts. I have tutored privately over 11 years and have worked with students all over the country, and can assure you that your student’s high school teacher may value different problems and teach in a different way than a teacher in a different town. The methods I use in my videos are those that have connected with the most kids, that make the most sense for me to explain, and are the ones that have consistently gotten results. If your student wants to learn a different method, or has questions about the way things are being taught in their own class, then I would be happy to assist through email or through private, 1-on-1 tutoring sessions. ​

Follow along on PhysicsIn5’s twitter handle, where I will be posting a weekly Friday quiz, containing problems that are in line with where I feel your student should be at that point in the year. I will post the answer key every Monday afternoon.

Creator: Scott Kupiec

- 8 year full-time high school physics teacher
- 4 year community college adjunct professor
- 11 year private physics tutor
- Consultant for first-year physics teachers
- Curriculum Writer: AP-C, AP-1, Honors Phy

My old classroom: Metea Valley High School (IL District 204)

One of over 1,100 slides created for this video series