How to get a 9 in GCSE Chemistry

GCSE Chemistry is notoriously one of the hardest subjects. To do well in this subject you’ll need a focused and consistent revision strategy. It is so important to have a strong understanding of the concepts as well as a solid exam technique. With a good plan and some hard work, it’s possible to reach the top GCSE Chemistry grades – even if chemistry isn’t your favourite subject!

In this article we’re going to talk through our top tips for doing the best in GCSE Chemistry. By applying these skills during your Year 10 and Year 11 Chemistry studies, you’ll have put yourself in the best possible position on exam day.

Classwork tips for GCSE Chemistry

It’s not unusual for students to feel lost and confused (or even fall asleep) during their GCSE Chemistry lessons. There is a good amount of content to cover over the two years, meaning you have plenty to learn. It’s important to avoid leaving all of your chemistry work until the last minute. Having consistent effort throughout your GCSE Chemistry classes is much more likely to lead to success.

• Make sure you understand the fundamental concepts as soon as possible.
  GCSE Chemistry is the kind of subject where each topic builds on one another. For example, in order to understand the properties of metals you’ll need to understand the different types of bonds. This means that if you don’t make an effort to really get a grasp of these fundamental concepts, future topics will much harder for you to understand.
• Utilise your teachers.
  Some of the concepts in GCSE Chemistry can be tricky to get your head around. Sometimes you just need someone to approach that explanation from a different angle for everything to click. Your teachers are there to help you and you shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Failing that you might find a 1-to-1 tutor helpful for the same reason.
• Catch-up any lessons you miss.
  It’s inevitable that you’ll miss a lesson or two at some point. Perhaps you’re unwell or have a sporting event to attend. We’ve already said how important it is to not fall behind as topics tend to build on each other. When you miss a lesson have a chat with your teacher to ask how to catch-up, or take a look at a friend’s class notes.

Revision tips for GCSE Chemistry

The months immediately leading up to GCSE exam season should be dedicated to a solid and focused revision plan. You will have a lot of different subjects to study, so it is important to optimise your time and make sure you’re studying smartly.

• Create a revision timetable.
  Use your exam board’s specification (you should be able to find this online) to allocate the different topics or subtopics across the time you have remaining. This will ensure you don’t miss any critical parts out or waste time revising topics not on the syllabus!
• Active recall is the most efficient revision technique.
  This is something we talk about a lot on this blog. Active recall is a scientifically backed method of studying that is the most efficient way to remember information. The harder your brain has to work during revision, the more cemented it will become in your brain. Avoid endless copying or highlighting or notes and try using flashcards or practice questions instead.
• Little and often is better than intense sessions.
  Think of your brain as if it was a muscle – if you train too hard and too fast you’ll end up doing more damage than good. It’s far better to have a consistent revision schedule, even if it’s for 30 minutes at a time, than to try and cram everything into a single 10 hour studying marathon!

Exam technique tips for GCSE Chemistry

Each GCSE subject you sit will require a different exam technique. It’s vital to get to grips with this or you won’t be rewarded for all your hard work – no matter how well you actually understand the subject!

• Keep an eye out for repetitive questions.
  While you’re practicing GCSE Chemistry past paper questions, make a note of any questions you see come up more than once. There are some key concepts in GCSE Chemistry that can only be examined in a limited way. This means that subjects tend to repeat themselves between different years. Pay extra attention to the mark schemes so that if these questions appear in your exam you know exactly how to score top marks.
• Don’t neglect your maths skills.
  There are some GCSE Chemistry questions that require you to use some numerical skills. For example, mole calculations and balancing equations. If maths isn’t your strongest area make sure to spend extra time practicing these types of questions. Take each calculation step by step and compare your answers to the mark scheme. After lots of repetition it should feel like second nature by exam day!
• Become comfortable with the periodic table.
  You will be provided with a printed copy of the periodic table during your exam. It’s a good idea to print out the exact format of the periodic table that your exam board use from their website. This way you’ll have used the same format for all your practice and should be familiar with it for your exam.

Final Words

GCSE Chemistry is tough. If you’re finding it hard – don’t panic! We see many very bright students every single year who need some extra help with this tricky subject. We hope that this article has helped frame your approach to tackling GCSE Chemistry and gives you some ideas to improve your revision techniques.

If you’re still struggling and would like an extra hand with your GCSE Chemistry revision, why not think about 1-to-1 tutoring with a member of our experienced team?

FAQs