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How to Pass H2 Physics with Flying Colours: Study Tips & More

Let us be straight about it – H2 Physics is one of the tougher subjects you will find yourself studying in JC. And that is the reason why many students struggle with it all the way up to the A’ levels. But that is no reason to panic.

There is a way to prepare yourself so that you can ace your H2 Physics paper with flying colours. But it will require hard work, consistency, and smart revision techniques.

Ready to get started?

The Difference Between Secondary Physics & H2 Physics

Before we go into the details, we want to recognize that there is a considerable distinction between secondary school level physics and junior college level physics.

O’ Level Physics Syllabus
22 sub-topics: From physical quantities, units, and measurement to electromagnetic induction
Example: 

  • state what is meant by speed and velocity
  • calculate average speed using the distance travelled / time taken

 

A’ Level Physics Syllabus

20 sub-topics: From kinematics to nuclear physics (With a lot more depth covered in each sub-topic)

Example:

  • derive, from the definitions of velocity and acceleration, equations that represent uniformly accelerated motion in a straight line
  • derive, from the definitions of pressure and density, the equation p = ρgh

 

The H2 Physics syllabus is a combination of both advanced O’ level topics as well as more complex brand-new topics like nuclear physics which students have no background at all in.

And that is why A’ Level Physics can feel like an incredibly steep learning experience even if you took Pure Physics in secondary school.

Nonetheless, this is nothing you cannot overcome with the right studying techniques.

Master the Concepts (One Topic At A Time)

When it comes to Physics, your knowledge of the formulas, understanding of the concepts taught, and honing the ability to apply them correctly to the question are essential to scoring points!

Follow these simple steps to help you master each topic:

  1. Start with the definitions and key formulas – familiarize yourself with them.
  2. Break down the topics into smaller sub-topics so it is easily digestible and reduce content fatigue. Unable to understand the sub-topic concepts? Spend some time clarifying with your teacher, tutor, or friend. Do not move on to the next step until you understand this.
  3. Time to practice applying the concepts in questions – start doing topical practice questions to test if you have the correct understanding of the concept.
  4. Review your learnings – once you have managed to complete the practice questions without much effort, take time to review your learnings so you do not forget what you have learnt.

If this is too difficult to attempt by yourself, you can always join a study group or group tuition for more motivation (and also get some extra help) to master the concepts!

Get Better at Maths

Calculations are a huge part of H2 Physics – they are two sides of the same coin. If you cannot handle the math, you cannot expect to do well for your Physics paper.

With so many formulas and calculations that require proficiency in mathematical concepts like calculus and trigonometry, you have no choice but to brush up on your maths skills!

Familiarise Yourself with Visual Aids

When it comes to Physics, there are plenty of charts and diagrams involved with the explanation and application of various concepts.

From the drawing and interpretation of circuit diagrams to the plotting of graphs to indicate distance, displacement, speed, velocity, and more, visual aids are part and parcel of most Physics questions.

Want to do well for such questions? Make sure you know how to draw them as well as interpret what they mean. Practice drawing them whenever you get the chance, so it becomes simple muscle memory!

Have a Regular Revision Schedule

Being consistent in your revision is key to reinforcing what you have learnt. Short bursts or last-minute cram sessions are effective only to a certain extent. Want knowledge that you can retain better? Be consistent.

Here is how you can go about setting a regular revision schedule:

  • Make sure you complete your practice questions after your lectures while you still remember the concepts.
  • Dedicate special time every week to ensure you have time to review what you learnt in school that week – this reinforcement is essential in helping you remember these concepts by the time it is the A’ levels.
  • At the month of every month and quarter, make sure you go through your summary notes to keep these topics fresh in your mind.

Practice Practice Practice

BThis is a step we cannot emphasize enough: get enough practice!

BWhether you are attempting assessment guidebooks, school tutorials, past examination papers, the key is to practice so that you know if you are ready for the final paper.

At New Dawn Learning Studio, our structured Physics curriculum allows our students to get enough practice so that they can master the topic:

  • Every week, students are taught step-by-step methods on how to solve various questions as well as get to practice and go through a wide variety of topical practice questions in-class.
  • Additional worksheets are also provided for students to continue with practice outside of class.
  • Revision classes before the examinations help students get a refresher on the concepts.
  • Need even more revision sessions? There are also quarterly workshops held to provide regular guided revision sessions for students who need further guidance in between examinations.

Be Exam Smart

And the last step of all – make sure you practice smart exam techniques. Not sure what those are? Here are some you should take note of:

  • Re-read the question twice to avoid misinterpretation.
  • Use the right units of measurement in your formulas – remember to convert when needed.
  • Write out your full working – to ensure even with a careless mistake you could still get error carry forward marks.
  • Allocate sufficient time for each section of your paper – skip ahead for questions you are unable to solve and come back later. Do not get stuck.

Are You Ready to Pass Your H2 Physics Exams with Flying Colours This Year?

Need some help to overcome the challenge that is H2 physics?

Our experienced Physics tutor can lend a helping hand, with his outstanding track record in helping plenty of JC graduates just like you over the years.
Learn more about our JC Physics tuition classes today!