5 things students need to know about the NEW A Level Chemistry examination format (from 2017 onwards)
Ms Sim’s deep experience providing tuition in JC Chemistry means that she is also plugged in to the most recent changes in curriculum and examination format. With effect from 2017, the A Level Chemistry examination format has changed. The new format is as follows:
| Paper | Type of Paper | Duration | Marks | Weightage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Multiple Choice | 1 hr | 30 | 15% |
| 2 | Structured Questions (with data-based question) | 2 hr | 75 | 30% |
| 3 | Free Response Questions Section A- Compulsory Section B- Choose 1 out of 2 questions | 2 hr | 80 | 35% |
| 4 | Practical | 2 hr 30 mins | 55 | 20% |
Here are the 5 significant differences between the current format and the previous format (from 2010-2016) that students should pay attention to:
1. More weightage on Paper 2 and less weightage on Paper 1
Weightage for Paper 2 is now 30% as compared to 25% in the past and weightage for Paper 1 has been reduced from 20% to 15%.
2. Fewer multiple choice questions for Paper 1
MCQs for Paper 1 have been reduced from 40 to 30. Hence, students now can spend more time (an average of 2 mins per question) as compared to the past (average of 1.5 min per question).
3. Change in format for Paper 3
In the past, students can choose 4 out of 5 questions for the free response questions. The current format has two sections: Section A which is compulsory and Section B which allows students to choose 1 out of 2 questions.
4. Inclusion of planning component for Paper 4
Under the new format, the planning component which used to be included in Paper 2 is now included in the Practical paper.
5. Paper 4 is now more demanding
In the past, Paper 4 or SPA (Science Practical Assessment) allows teachers to focus on a particular topic that will be tested during SPA and teachers typically drill their students on that particular topic. The current format for Paper 4 or Practical Paper is more demanding as it can test students on titration, planning and qualitative analysis that come from a range of different topics.
It is important that students take note of the changes of the current examination format as compared to the previous format so that they can plan and strategize accordingly. Pick up more tips and guidance from Ms Sim during her A Level Chemistry tuition classes. Get in touch with us now!