HONEST Experience of A Level Chemistry 2017: Should you Take it? // Sixth Form Advice

TL;DR

The speaker shares personal experiences and study tips for A-Level Chemistry.

Transcript

hey guys and welcome back to unjaded - so it's been a while since I've kind of sat down film like school related video and we may or may not know I'm currently on holiday on a family holiday in Thailand so this is my little brother's room in the villa and it's like a massive window front of me so that's kind of where I'm where I decided to film not... Read More

Key Insights

• 🎁 A-Level Chemistry presents a significant academic challenge, particularly for those unprepared by their GCSE experience.
• ❓ Organic chemistry can be particularly difficult due to its reliance on spatial and visual understanding of molecular structures.
• 👾 Time management during exams is crucial; students should practice pacing themselves to complete all sections of the paper.
• 🦻 Familiarity with exam formats and structures can greatly aid in exam performance and reduce anxiety.
• 🆘 Utilizing a variety of study resources can enhance understanding and help clarify complex topics in Chemistry.
• 🧑‍🏫 Engaging with teachers and peers for support can significantly impact learning and retention of material.
• 😑 Creating visuals like posters of molecular ions and mechanism pathways can aid in recall and understanding of complex concepts.

Questions & Answers

Q: What subjects is the speaker currently studying at A-Level?

The speaker is studying Math, Biology, Chemistry, and English Literature. They express a keen interest in pursuing Biology at university, indicating a certain level of certainty in their chosen field of study.

Q: What are the challenges the speaker faces in Chemistry?

The speaker identifies that Chemistry is particularly challenging due to its complexity and the significant step up from GCSE. They struggle more with organic chemistry, citing difficulties in spatial awareness which makes visualization of molecular structures challenging.

Q: What advice does the speaker give for succeeding in A-Level Chemistry?

The speaker advises prospective A-Level Chemistry students to ensure they are prepared for the subject's difficulty, highlighting the importance of solid GCSE knowledge. They recommend regular practice with past papers, utilizing online resources, and making flashcards to reinforce learning.

Q: How does the speaker recommend managing time during Chemistry exams?

The speaker underscores the importance of time management in exams, revealing instances of rushing and incomplete papers. They suggest familiarizing yourself with the exam format and ensuring to check for all pages to avoid missing questions.

Q: Why is it crucial to focus on GCSE knowledge before starting A-Level Chemistry?

Strong GCSE knowledge is critical as it lays the foundation for A-Level Chemistry concepts. The speaker emphasizes that many of the foundational principles from GCSE are crucial for tackling the advanced topics encountered in A-Level.

Q: How does the speaker utilize resources to aid their Chemistry studies?

The speaker relies on various online resources, such as specific educational websites and YouTube channels, to reinforce their understanding of Chemistry concepts. They also print term sheets and study materials to have ready access to important information.

Q: What personal strategies does the speaker use to enhance their learning?

The speaker adopts personal learning strategies like creating visual aids, organizing study sessions with their teacher, and actively recalling information through flashcards and posters, which help solidify their grasp of complex topics.

Q: What takeaway message does the speaker offer to their viewers?

The speaker reassures viewers that while A-Level Chemistry is challenging, it is achievable with dedication and effective study practices. They encourage students to reach out for help when needed and to be proactive in their study habits.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The speaker discusses their A-Level subjects, focusing on the challenges faced in Chemistry, particularly with organic chemistry concepts and time management during exams.

• They emphasize the need for strong foundational knowledge from GCSE and suggest using past papers and various online resources to enhance understanding and preparation for A-Level Chemistry.

• They highlight personal strategies for studying, including making flashcards, engaging with teachers, and creating posters of molecular ions, to improve performance in exams.