60 Basic Questions for Intro Physics
A conceptual physics diagnostic to uncover misconceptions, benchmark understanding, and improve how students think—not just calculate.
From the Author
These 60 questions are based on concepts students are expected to understand after an introductory physics course.
However, when courses emphasize problem-solving over conceptual reasoning, many students struggle with questions like these—even when the content is considered “basic.”
Research in Physics Education (PER) shows that conceptual questions are essential for assessing real understanding. While these questions are not formally validated like the Force Concept Inventory (FCI), they have been refined through years of classroom use.
They are intentionally straightforward—no tricks, no unnecessary complexity—focused on core ideas every student should understand.
They can be used at the beginning of a course to assess incoming knowledge, or at the end to measure conceptual growth.
“If you’re not focusing on qualitative questions… be prepared for your students to struggle with basic concepts.”
A Better Way to Assess Conceptual Understanding
Most physics assessments focus on equations.
This one focuses on thinking.
These 60 conceptual physics questions help you:
- Identify misconceptions early
- Measure conceptual understanding over time
- Support deeper classroom discussions
👉 Download All 60 Questions (Free PDF)
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Go Beyond Assessment: Support Conceptual Learning
If these questions reveal gaps in understanding, the next step is addressing them.
Arbor Scientific’s conceptual physics tools and hands-on activities help students move from memorization to real understanding.
Why instructors use Arbor Scientific tools:
- Reinforce key concepts through hands-on exploration
- Support active learning and peer instruction
- Help students visualize abstract ideas
- Align with topics in this question set
