The first module of Y11 is now complete and to help you prepare for the assessment I have created a mini-test, complete with mark scheme and explanation. You can access the test by clicking here and the mark scheme is here. Work through the questions then check your answers to spot any errors or misconceptions … Continue reading SP8-9 Forces Doing Work (mini-test)
Paper-based exams in November
In advance of next week's GCSE results, Edexcel has announced details of real GCSE examinations that you will be able to take during November. This is important because if you want to take advantage of that opportunity then you must start preparing NOW! Send me an email as soon as possible if you think this … Continue reading Paper-based exams in November
Driven to Succeed?
New research published today (20th July) suggests that GCSE students who are determined to do well are more likely to achieve higher levels of success. This may be stating the obvious but let's not underestimate what it means... If you are moving from Y10 to Y11 after three months of disrupted schooling then there is … Continue reading Driven to Succeed?
The Importance of Equations
Writing about A Brief History of Time*, Stephen Hawking freely admitted that he didn't care much for equations. He went on to add, with a hint of humour; "this is partly because it is difficult for me to write them down but mainly because I don't have an intuitive feeling for equations". You may feel … Continue reading The Importance of Equations
Exam Tips 1: Word Choices
Obviously you have to know your subject content to succeed in any test or exam but there are also some things you can do to avoid common mistakes. Here are five top tips for getting extra marks simply by being more careful in your use of words. 1. Learn the command words and how to … Continue reading Exam Tips 1: Word Choices
Raise your grades!
Back in February I told you about a free online mini-course to help you improve your exam technique over five days. That course is back again so if you missed it the first time, do it now. (Bear in mind that "exam" technique includes tips for improving your answers in tests of all types - … Continue reading Raise your grades!
Can you beat 49/50?
Doing a test may not be your idea of a cool holiday activity but CGP (the publisher of your revision guide) has just released a series of free online GCSE tests that I highly recommend. You can access the tests at https://www.cgpbooks.co.uk/resources/free-gcse-science-10-minute-tests. On the landing page, select Separate Science then choose Physics. You will have … Continue reading Can you beat 49/50?
Check your Knowledge
The ability to recall key facts and the relationships between those facts is an important part of learning in any context. As we reach the end of the two modules covering Waves and the Electromagnetic Spectrum it is important that you check how much you can remember of the content that has been covered. To … Continue reading Check your Knowledge
Waves: note-taking task
One of the most important study skills is note-taking. Some students complain that they do too much writing so in the Waves topic we'll be trying out a different approach based on Cornell Notes. The method was covered in class but I've included a screen-grab here to remind you what it looks like - but … Continue reading Waves: note-taking task
Equation Skills
One of the most important sets of skills you must have to succeed in GCSE Physics examinations is the ability to learn, understand and use equations. With that in mind, I am creating a series of study booklets that you can use to improve your expertise in these areas. The first installment, covering the equation … Continue reading Equation Skills
