1. Mastering the FRQ

2. FRQ
Read each question
Outline the answer/brainstorm – you are not given space to make a rough draft.
Identify names, concepts, and studies that could be used to support the answer (write everything you know about it).
Remember : IDENTIFY-DEFINE-APPLY (IDA)
DO NOT contradict – DO demonstrate knowledge of concept
Write like a 6th grader will be reading it, yes you read that correctly!!

3. HINTS
Identify the number of “points” that you think the question is worth. Usually, each aspect of the question is worth one “point”.
Questions may range from approximately 7-10 points.
No introduction or conclusion
Answer question in detail and complete sentences
Bullet/number/letter each point and underline key word
AVOID abbreviations!! (example: IV for Independent Variable)
Write neatly.
Practice better handwriting (some of you need to work on this BIG TIME)
Scorer is more likely to award you points if he/she is easily able to understand what you are communicating.

4. Sample FRQ
Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. The field of psychology is diverse and looks at behavior and mental processes in various ways. Explain how each term below applies to the study of psychology, citing key figures and studies where necessary.
Functionalism
Structuralism
Cognitive Approach
Neuroscience Approach
Experimental Psychology
Clinical Psychology

5. SODAS
Acronym for key
FRQ Tips
Space
Order
Define
Apply
Synonyms

6. SODAS
Space!
Leave about 5 lines blank between each separate component of your answer

7. SODAS
Order
Answer the components in the same sequence that they are listed in the question.

8. SODAS
Define
Briefly explain each
concept using specific
terms

9. Apply to the scenario SODAS
Relate the term to the scenario or connect terms as directed.
Each example must reference the specific situation

10. Synonyms SODAS Do not use the term itself in the definition or
application alone.
Use a synonym!

11. SODAS Synonyms example
WRONG - Chunking involves placing a large amount of items to be memorized into chunks in order to increase short-term memory capacity.
CORRECT – Chunking involves placing a larger amount of items to be memorized into small groups in order to increase short-term memory capacity.

12. Write like a 6th grader will be reading your work
Sneed’s Six!!!
1st. READ the question
2nd. Reread the question and underline key terms
3rd. Write notes out to the side that identify what questions you are answering
4th. Get thoughts together and make an outline in the margins
5th. Answer questions using IDA and SODAS
6th. READ YOUR ANSWER make sure it makes sense and that you answered ALL points.
Write like a 6th grader will be reading your work

13. Your Turn Sample FRQ
Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. The field of psychology is diverse and looks at behavior and mental processes in various ways. Explain how each term below applies to the study of psychology, citing key figures and studies where necessary.
Next, discuss the differences for each pair of terms (a-b, c-d, e-f)
Functionalism
Structuralism
Cognitive Approach
Neuroscience Approach
Experimental Psychology
Clinical Psychology