ap psych practice test unit 2

3 min read 11-01-2025
ap psych practice test unit 2

This comprehensive practice test covers Unit 2 of the AP Psychology curriculum, focusing on research methods. It's designed to help you solidify your understanding of key concepts and prepare for the AP exam. Remember to time yourself – aim for approximately 45 minutes to simulate exam conditions. Good luck!

Multiple Choice Questions

Instructions: Choose the best answer for each multiple-choice question.

  1. Which of the following research methods is best suited for establishing cause-and-effect relationships? a) Case study b) Naturalistic observation c) Survey d) Experiment

  2. A researcher wants to study the effect of caffeine on alertness. What is the independent variable? a) The participants' alertness levels b) The amount of caffeine consumed c) The time of day the experiment is conducted d) The participants' age

  3. A researcher uses a random sample to select participants for a study. What is the primary benefit of using a random sample? a) It ensures the sample is representative of the population. b) It guarantees the results will be statistically significant. c) It eliminates the need for control groups. d) It simplifies data analysis.

  4. What is a confounding variable? a) A variable that is intentionally manipulated by the researcher. b) A variable that is measured by the researcher. c) An extraneous variable that affects the dependent variable. d) A variable that has no effect on the outcome of the study.

  5. In an experiment, the control group receives: a) The independent variable b) The dependent variable c) A placebo or no treatment d) A different level of the independent variable

  6. A researcher observes children playing in a playground without interfering. This is an example of: a) A case study b) Naturalistic observation c) A survey d) An experiment

  7. What is the purpose of operational definitions in research? a) To ensure that the study is ethical. b) To clearly define variables and how they will be measured. c) To analyze the data collected. d) To recruit participants for the study.

  8. A correlation coefficient of +0.8 indicates: a) A weak positive correlation b) A strong positive correlation c) A weak negative correlation d) A strong negative correlation

  9. Which of the following is a potential ethical concern in psychological research? a) Anonymity b) Debriefing c) Informed consent d) Coercion

  10. What is the difference between random assignment and random sampling? a) Random sampling refers to how participants are selected for the study, while random assignment refers to how participants are assigned to groups within the study. b) Random assignment refers to how participants are selected for the study, while random sampling refers to how participants are assigned to groups within the study. c) Both terms refer to the same concept in research methodology. d) Neither term is relevant in experimental designs.

Answer Key & Explanations

  1. d) Experiment - Experiments allow researchers to manipulate the independent variable and control extraneous variables, establishing cause-and-effect.

  2. b) The amount of caffeine consumed - The independent variable is the variable that is manipulated by the researcher.

  3. a) It ensures the sample is representative of the population. - A random sample increases the likelihood that the sample accurately reflects the characteristics of the larger population.

  4. c) An extraneous variable that affects the dependent variable. - Confounding variables make it difficult to determine the true effect of the independent variable.

  5. c) A placebo or no treatment - The control group provides a baseline for comparison.

  6. b) Naturalistic observation - Naturalistic observation involves observing behavior in a natural setting without manipulation.

  7. b) To clearly define variables and how they will be measured. - Operational definitions ensure that the study is replicable and that the variables are clearly understood.

  8. b) A strong positive correlation - A correlation coefficient closer to +1 or -1 indicates a stronger correlation. A positive coefficient indicates a positive relationship.

  9. d) Coercion - Coercion involves forcing participants to participate without their free consent, violating ethical principles.

  10. a) Random sampling refers to how participants are selected for the study, while random assignment refers to how participants are assigned to groups within the study. Random sampling ensures a representative sample from the population, while random assignment minimizes bias in group composition.

This practice test provides a good foundation. Remember to review your textbook and class notes for a more comprehensive understanding of research methods in psychology. Good luck with your studies!

Randomized Content :

    Loading, please wait...

    Related Posts


    close