Glossary
Holistically
Evaluating the overall body of work for a specific rubric row, rather than focusing on individual pieces in isolation. This means the general impression of the work is considered.
Example:
When scoring, the College Board assesses your portfolio holistically, looking at the entire collection of pieces to understand your artistic journey and intent.
Preponderance of evidence
The overall impression or weight of the evidence presented in the artwork, which determines the score for each rubric row. It signifies that the majority of the work supports a particular scoring level.
Example:
The preponderance of evidence in Sarah's sketchbook, with its numerous iterations and detailed notes, clearly demonstrated her commitment to revision.
Row A: Inquiry and Investigation
This rubric row (12%) assesses how well an artist defines and explores their chosen topic, demonstrating a clear focus and investigation of ideas through visual and written elements.
Example:
For Row A: Inquiry and Investigation, a student might begin with a compelling question like 'How does light transform everyday objects?' and then visually explore this through initial sketches and photographic studies.
Row B: Practice, Experimentation, and Revision
This rubric row (18%) evaluates an artist's growth and evolution, evidenced by their practice, experimentation with techniques, and revisions based on their trials.
Example:
In Row B: Practice, Experimentation, and Revision, an artist might show how they tried different brushstrokes and color palettes for a landscape, then revised their approach after seeing how light interacted with the paint.
Row C: Materials, Processes, and Ideas
This rubric row (18%) focuses on how effectively and thoughtfully an artist uses materials and processes to express their ideas, showing a clear connection between concept and medium.
Example:
A sculptor demonstrating proficiency in Row C: Materials, Processes, and Ideas might choose to use reclaimed wood to symbolize environmental decay, directly linking their material choice to their artistic concept.
Row D: Synthesis of Materials, Processes, and Ideas
This rubric row (12%) assesses how well an artist brings together all elements—materials, processes, and ideas—to create a cohesive body of work with a unique and unified artistic voice.
Example:
The final exhibition of a student's work, where every piece clearly built upon previous explorations and demonstrated a consistent personal style, exemplified strong Row D: Synthesis of Materials, Processes, and Ideas.
Selected Works
A collection of an artist's best pieces that showcase their skills, range, and mastery of artistic principles. These works contribute 40% to the overall AP Art & Design score.
Example:
For their Selected Works, an artist might choose a vibrant oil portrait, a detailed charcoal still life, and an abstract digital painting to highlight their diverse abilities.
Sustained Investigation
An in-depth exploration of a specific artistic concept or idea, demonstrating growth and development over time. It accounts for 60% of the total AP Art & Design score.
Example:
A student's Sustained Investigation might explore the impact of climate change on local ecosystems through a series of mixed-media sculptures, showing their evolving understanding and technique.