A-Level chemistry is a challenging, but ultimately rewarding experience for any student who has an interest in the subject. In fact, it’s a highly rigorous A-Level option, and thus can be a daunting challenge for any student. But our expert tutors at BartyED have years of experience in guiding students to success in the subject, and have plenty of tips. Simple alterations to your current study strategies are the perfect way to ensure that students are maximising their potential in A-Level chemistry, and have the essential transferable skills needed to succeed in all their A-Level subjects.

Students often underestimate the usefulness of the syllabus and specification. Whether your school follows the CAIE or Edexcel exam board, all students of A-Level chemistry should be familiar with every aspect of the specification and assessment criteria. 

This is a resource that often gets glossed over in the classroom, but it’s invaluable for any student looking to achieve top marks in their chemistry A-Level. The syllabus also includes the assessment criteria. Understanding what you are being assessed on is enormously helpful to students looking to be tactical in their A-Level chemistry revision. It helps students determine how best to allot their time when conducting A-Level chemistry revision. 

Students working on A-Level chemistry should absolutely remember to go back to the basics. Most schools, especially in Hong Kong, will move from IGCSEs to A-Levels, so returning to your IGCSE revision resources is a great place to start. 

Chemistry, like all science subjects, builds on the fundamental concepts learned earlier in education. That means that it’s essential for students to master those fundamentals before moving on to complex topics.

A-Level chemistry past papers are one of, if not the, most important resources available to a student. Both Edexcel and CAIE publish their papers for student use, alongside the mark schemes and examiner reports. 

A key component to analyse carefully are command words. A “Calculate” question will, of course, require a different set of skills and responses than a “Complete” question. But what about the distinction between “Assess” and “Discuss”? Exam boards have clear definitions for these terms, and it’s vital that A-Level chemistry students are able to understand and apply that knowledge to the questions. 

Another key tip is to create mnemonics and memory aids. Mnemonics are simply devices aimed to help you remember a series of facts or components. For example, a popular one for chemistry students is OIL RIG, or Oxidation Is Loss, Reduction Is Gain (of electrons). This can help you remember key aspects of the chemistry course, even when under exam pressures.

Making flashcards and other activities can also make the revision process for A-Level chemistry both easier, and more memorable.

As students approach assessments and exams, a common question we get asked is how to organise their study schedule. Frankly, the easiest way to ensure success in chemistry, or any other A-Level subject, is to have a well-structured and sustainable study timetable. Be realistic, and focus on what is sustainable for you.

Print out a timetable and stick it on your family fridge, or up on the wardrobe in your bedroom, so that your family can help hold you accountable to your study commit.

Study groups are enormously effective methods of revision for any subject, including A-Level chemistry. However, it’s also important that a study group stays focused and on task.

A top tip for forming an A-Level chemistry study group is to keep it small; anything larger than 5 people can become difficult to manage. It’s also vital that your study group is able to meet at the same time and place, so pencil in a specific time to study together. Finally, work together to set out study priorities. If you’ve agreed on specific topics to focus on in each session, that will help your chemistry study group stay on task.

Students of A-Level chemistry should make use of all resources available to them. As well as completing work set by your classroom teacher and any tutors, you should also take the initiative. From S-Cool, to The Royal Society’s website, there is plenty of useful information available to students, including revision guides and compilations of questions on key topics

It’s important that A-Level students are able to effectively incorporate online resources into their study routine. It will help students to add much needed variation, and learning how to effectively use different types of resources is an essential educational skill.

The most important tip that we have is to make sure that not only are students managing their academics, but looking after their health and managing stress levels. Some degree of pressure can be an effective tactic for a student looking to excel in A-Level chemistry, but it’s important to keep it in proportion.

Focus on building sustainable study habits, not maximising revision hours. Small gains over a long period of time add up, so doing a little bit of work to consolidate your learning in chemistry every day will be much more effective than cramming a week before the exam. If you are concerned about burning out, speak to a trusted adult. They can offer a sympathetic ear, but also tips for managing stress and burnout.

A-Level chemistry, regardless of your exam board, is a challenging course. It teaches students both academic and scientific rigour, while at the same time educating them on the underlying forces of the universe. While it’s a fascinating subject, it’s not easy. It’s important to know when to seek help and clarification. 

BartyED’s team of expert A-Level chemistry tutors have a plethora of experience in guiding students to success in the subject. Reach out today via email (enquiries@bartyed.com), or phone (+852 2882 1017) to find out more about how we can help you or your child excel in A-Level chemistry.

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