How to pass Chemistry
- amieradavies
- Nov 6
- 2 min read
If you think Chemistry is one of the hardest GCSE subjects, you are not alone. Lots of students find it difficult. The good news is it doesn't have to be, by using the right strategies and building good habits, Chemistry can be made easier. You might even start enjoying it.
Below are some practical steps from a chemistry teacher on how to approach chemistry with confidence.
Build strong foundations
The modules at the start of the course are core topics, everything the follows builds and relies on you understanding this knowledge: atomic structure, bonding and equations. If you don't understand something, get clarity NOW. If you are confused with these topics it will cause you problems later.
Learn how to apply knowledge
The questions at the start of the exam paper often assess simple recall (remembering a fact from the course) but the majority of the exam paper is going to test your application. This means explaining an observation. When revising, get into the habit of expanding your answers and notes with because ... For example:
Simple covalent compounds have low boiling points because there are weak intermolecular forces between the molecules which do not take a lot of energy to break.
Study smart - Stay focussed - Learn faster
There are lots of resources available online now. This is fantastic, however, they need to be used with care. Some students fall into the trap of feeling like they have completed a lot of work because they have watched lots of videos or read a lot of notes, but these are passive activities, you need to engage in active revision to achieve high grades. Put your phone away, get your equipment ready and find an environment where you can focus on your work.
Read our blog on HOW TO REVISE for tips on what active revision looks like.
Success in Chemistry comes from understanding, practice and smart study. If you would like more structured support, OCTOPUS EDUCATION offers small-group GCSE Science Tuition by fully qualified, experienced science teachers, right in the heart of Cobham. Register your interest today and we will contact you with more information about our science tutoring courses.
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