Physical Sciences requires learners to understand scientific principles and apply them to different problems. Examination questions may involve calculations, explanations, diagrams, graphs, experiments and the interpretation of scientific information.

Working through previous papers gives learners an opportunity to practise these skills and become more comfortable with different types of Physical Sciences questions.

After completing a question paper, use the available memorandum to assess your performance. A memo can help you identify incorrect calculations, missing steps, misunderstandings of scientific concepts and errors in terminology.

For calculation-based questions, compare your method as well as your final answer. Correctly selecting and applying a formula is an important part of solving many Physical Sciences problems.

Start by reviewing the topics you have studied in class. Choose a past paper and attempt the questions without immediately consulting your notes.

Show your calculations clearly and include appropriate units where required. For explanation questions, use relevant scientific terminology and make sure your answer addresses what the question is asking.

Once you have finished, mark your work using the memorandum. Record the questions you found difficult and return to those concepts before attempting another paper.

Physical Sciences combines knowledge from two closely related scientific disciplines. Chemistry helps learners understand matter, substances and chemical processes, while Physics focuses on concepts such as motion, forces, energy, waves and electricity.

Past papers provide opportunities to move between these different areas and practise applying scientific knowledge to unfamiliar situations.

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