AP Biology · Unit 1
Chemistry of Life
Begin with an optional chemistry refresher, then build from water toward the molecules that store energy, form membranes, carry information, and perform most cellular work.
Use when a lesson calls for the skill
AP Biology Skills Toolkit
These optional tools support Unit 1 investigations and data questions. They are not additional Chemistry of Life topics.
Variables and controls
Design an Interpretable Test
Write a testable hypothesis, define variables, and choose controls that make a result interpretable.
Data and reasoning
Analyze Evidence
Use replication, graphs, error bars, and claim-evidence-reasoning without confusing association with causation.
Chemistry of Life learning sequence
Choose a content lesson
Optional chemistry review
Atoms, Bonds & Reactions
Refresh the atom, charge, and reaction patterns used throughout Unit 1.
Topic 1.1
Water's Unusual Power
Use molecular structure to explain water's emergent properties.
Topics 1.2–1.3
From Elements to Polymers
Build biological molecules through dehydration and hydrolysis.
Topics 1.4–1.5
Carbohydrates & Lipids
Connect molecular structure to energy, storage, and membranes.
Topic 1.6
Nucleic Acids
Read nucleotide models to explain sequence, directionality, and complementary base pairing.
Topic 1.7
Proteins
Trace how amino-acid sequence and folding produce biological function.
Unit synthesis
Macromolecule Evidence Lab
Identify four unknown samples by selecting tests and defending conclusions.
Topics 1.1–1.7
Unit 1 Assessment
Apply chemistry-of-life concepts to novel diagrams, data, and experiments.
Study after a lesson or before an assessment