How to Revise Series - Combined Science: A Comprehensive Guide
Revising for Combined Science can feel daunting, but with the right strategies and focus areas, you can build confidence and make measurable progress. Success in Combined Science isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about improving bit by bit. Gaining even one more mark per question can make the difference between grades, so every small step counts!
Proven Revision Techniques for Science Success
Look, Cover, and Repeat Aloud
Summarise a concept (e.g., the stages of mitosis) on a flashcard or in notes.
Cover the explanation, recall it aloud, and repeat until it sticks.
This active recall method strengthens your memory.
Rehearsal of Key Answers
Practise writing full responses to common questions (e.g., "Explain the process of osmosis").
Focus on clear structure and scientific terminology to secure full marks.
Repetition of Maths Skills
Maths is a key part of Combined Science. Regularly practise:
Rearranging equations (e.g., v=f×λv = f \times \lambdav=f×λ).
Unit conversions (e.g., cm to m, Joules to kilojoules).
Calculating averages, percentages, and rates.
Use a variety of questions to develop fluency.
Key Areas to Revise: Required Practicals and Disciplinary Knowledge
The Role of Required Practicals
The required practicals form the backbone of your exams. Questions based on them assess your ability to:
Identify variables (independent, dependent, and control).
Recognize and calculate uncertainty.
Plot and interpret graphs.
Suggest improvements to experimental methods.
Focus on mastering:
The methodology (what you did and why).
The data analysis (drawing conclusions and evaluating results).
Essential Disciplinary Knowledge
These skills are assessed across the exam papers and are critical for achieving high marks:
Uncertainty and Error Analysis: Calculate ranges and mean values accurately.
Data Handling: Describe trends, compare datasets, and make inferences.
Graph Plotting: Ensure correct axes, labels, scales, and accurate plotting.
Unit Conversions: Be comfortable switching between units (e.g., Joules to kilojoules).
Evaluations: Suggest practical improvements and explain their significance.
Key Topics to Focus On
Biology
Paper 1
Cell Biology: Cell division (mitosis and the cell cycle), cell structure, and transport (diffusion, osmosis, active transport).
Organisation: Digestive system (enzymes), circulatory system (heart and blood vessels), and plant transport.
Infection and Response: Communicable diseases, vaccination, and drug development.
Bioenergetics: Photosynthesis and respiration (aerobic and anaerobic).
Paper 2
Homeostasis and Response: Nervous system, hormonal control, and maintaining glucose levels.
Inheritance, Variation, and Evolution: Genetic crosses, inheritance patterns, and natural selection.
Ecology: Adaptations, food chains, and human impact on ecosystems.
Chemistry
Paper 1
Atomic Structure and Periodic Table: Subatomic particles, periodic trends, and group properties.
Bonding and Structure: Ionic, covalent, and metallic bonding, with properties of different structures.
Quantitative Chemistry: Moles, mass calculations, and concentration.
Chemical Changes: Reactivity series, displacement reactions, and electrolysis.
Energy Changes: Endothermic and exothermic reactions.
Paper 2
Rates of Reaction and Equilibrium: Collision theory, catalysts, and dynamic equilibrium.
Organic Chemistry: Properties and reactions of alkanes, alkenes, and alcohols.
Chemical Analysis: Chromatography and qualitative analysis.
Chemistry of the Atmosphere: Composition of gases and human impact on the environment.
Using Resources: Recycling, sustainable materials, and water treatment.
Physics
Paper 1
Energy: Energy transfers, efficiency, and specific heat capacity.
Electricity: Current, voltage, resistance, and electrical circuits.
Particle Model of Matter: Density, changes of state, and internal energy.
Atomic Structure: Isotopes, radioactivity, and half-life.
Paper 2
Forces: Newton’s laws, velocity-time graphs, and momentum.
Waves: Wave properties, the electromagnetic spectrum, and uses of EM waves.
Magnetism and Electromagnetism: Magnetic fields and their applications.
The Power of Small Steps
Success in Combined Science isn’t about cramming everything in—it’s about incremental improvement. One extra mark on each question can elevate your grade. Focus on improving your knowledge and skills across every topic, no matter how small the gain.
To consolidate your revision, start with high-yield topics and refine your understanding of required practicals and disciplinary skills. Every small improvement adds up to big results.
If you need extra support, Bright Path Learning is here to help. Our expert tutors, all highly experienced educators, understand how to maximise your potential. Contact us today:
WhatsApp: 07751 864152
Website: www.brightpathlearning.co.uk
Take the next step in your revision journey with Bright Path Learning!
