A-Level Chemistry Exam Technique
A practical approach to Chemistry calculations and written answers, with a route to online AQA Chemistry tuition with Maria.
A calculation is a chain of decisions
Before using a formula, write down what the question gives you and what you need to find. Choose the relationship that links them. Then work through the calculation in a way you can check.
- Identify the quantity being asked for.
- Choose the relevant relationship and check the units.
- Show the steps in your working.
- Check the size of the answer and include the requested units or precision.
- When reviewing, find the first step where your reasoning went wrong.
Copying the final method from a mark scheme can hide the part you didn’t understand. Try the question again after explaining that step in your own words.
Written answers need a reason
Use the Chemistry to explain what is happening. Naming a concept is rarely the same as explaining how it answers the question.
For an explanation, connect the model, particles or mechanism to the observed effect. For a comparison, make the contrast explicit. Use the command word and the context to decide what your answer needs to do.
Work through it with Maria
Maria is a Chemistry teacher, Head of Chemistry and AQA examiner. Her lessons model questions step by step, with particular attention to calculations and longer written answers.
Explore online AQA Chemistry tuition with Maria or read our revision support guidance.
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