
AP-Course Audit Teacher Resources
© 2025 College Board
Advanced Placement 3-D Art
and Design Sample Syllabus #1
College Course Equivalent
The AP 3-D Art and Design course is designed to be the equivalent of a one-semester,
introductory college course in three-dimensional (3-D) art and design.
Course Description
The AP 3-D Art and Design course framework presents an inquiry-based approach to
learning about and making forms and structures in art and design. Students are expected
to conduct an in-depth, sustained investigation of materials, processes, concepts, and
ideas in three dimensions. The framework focuses on concepts and skills emphasized
within college art and design 3-D foundation courses with the same intent: to help
students become inquisitive, thoughtful artists and designers able to create, explore,
and develop works as well as to articulate information about their work. AP 3-D Art
and Design students develop and apply skills of inquiry and investigation, practice,
experimentation, exploration, revision, communication, and reflection.
Instructional Goals
The AP 3-D Art and Design course addresses the following learning outcomes:
The ability to conduct a sustained investigation through practice, experimentation,
and revision, guided by questions and explorations.
The ability to skillfully master and synthesize materials, processes, concepts,
and ideas.
The ability to articulate, through three-dimensional works and in writing, information
about one’s work.
AP 3-D Art and Design Curricular Requirements
1. Students will be encouraged to investigate a variety of 2-D and 3-D creative art and
design resources to enhance their aesthetic understanding and generate possibilities
for their sustained investigation as well as the Selected Works section of the AP 3-D
Art and Design Exam. The following online resources can be valuable tools:
CR1
2. While online resources are phenomenal tools for inspiration, students are expected
to experience two-dimensional and three-dimensional art and design in person as
well. Students will use sketchbooks to document at least one work of art and design
they experience in person each week. Examples include architecture; both wheel-
and hand-constructed ceramic vessels; sculpture in clay; carved and/or constructed
wood, metal, stone, wax, or wire; 3-D fashion forms; graphics constructions; and art
and design in the classroom, at home, or in the community. Students should observe
diverse visual forms, investigating how materials, processes, concepts, and ideas
used in a work relate to the context of the artist/designer.
CR1
The syllabus must include
at least two examples
(titles, URLs, etc.) of art
and design resources
(e.g., books, periodicals,
reproductions, and online
media) that are used to
support specific learning
goals.
2