Posted by IB Chemistry is an applied science through which the research work is combined with the development of investigation and practical skills. Al the physical world in which we all exist is underpinned by Chemical ideas and fundamental sciences made out of all the biological processes.
Besides being a subject worthy of study in its own way, Chemistry is often mandatory while pursuing courses in higher education, i.e., medicine, biological science, and environmental science.
If you are wondering how to gather yourself for the IB Chemistry exams, here are the best 5 tips that will be instrumental in smoothly navigating your way through the subject and hitting that 7 score.
#1 Choose your desired level
To sail through the preparation process flawlessly, it is primarily important to do thorough research and choose the level appropriate for you that is desired for higher studies. Without any prior knowledge of Chemistry, one can complete the subject at a standard level, but considering the profundity and wideness of Chemistry at HL, having exposure to IGCSE Chemistry would be an added advantage while preparing for the course. And based on your background, potential, and interests seeking counselling from mentors to decide on the level would be useful.
#2 Concepts of Chemistry
Take that first step towards preparing for IB Chemistry at the HL or SL level by building up a solid base in the basics of chemistry concepts.
This includes exploring what atoms are and what are they made up of (the basic building blocks are the proton, electron, and neutron), understanding how atomic weights work and how to read a periodic table. While structuring knowledge, the foundational concepts are equally important because you need them to use often while problem-solving and because understanding them in depth will considerably decrease the time taken to study more advanced subjects. Once you are clear with the basic principles of atoms, molecules, chemical bonds, etc., you will soon realize that the subject is purely applying the reasoning of common sense.
#3 Consistently Revising Topics
It is important to get hold of the foundational topics first to get hold of the topics that follow since the chemistry topics build on the topics covered earlier. Don’t accumulate the topics that you cannot grasp. Try studying a topic every day until you have covered all the topics. In most schools, teaching is fast-paced to complete the syllabus within the prescribed teaching hours; hence, it is advisable to stay at least two topics before the class by studying them in advance. Do take all the mock tests and internal assessments seriously to gauge your strengths and weaknesses, so by learning in parts through a spread of 18 months, you will stay stress-free during the final exams.
#4 Focus on Formulas, Definitions & Reactions
It is important to remember the keywords of the definitions in each section. Likewise, remember all the formulas essential for solving a few problems in Paper I. The data booklet provided does have the formulas. Still, you are not allowed to use the same in Paper I. To answer all the questions accurately and quickly, it is important to remember all the chemical reactions, and they should be at your fingertips. In Chemistry, the best score depends entirely on one’s problem-solving skills. Make sure that problem-solving is the central activity of your study schedule.
#5 Past Paper Practice
Getting a 7 in IB Chemistry can be tough unless you solve past paper questions. Try solving at least the last 5 years’ papers to get hands-on experience on different kinds of questions that can be tested from a given topic. Try and attempt the question papers of the last 7 years. This will cover all kinds of probable questions. And solving the questions in the stipulated time will make your practice perfect.
Also, review every paper and evaluate your answers with the marking scheme before moving on to the next paper. Online resources like Tribe Topper provide you with solutions, so try that if you come across a set of questions that you cannot comprehend correctly, revisit the subject syllabus and check for the topics that need revision.
To conclude, IB Chemistry might sound challenging but staying focused, managing your time effectively, staying committed, motivated, organized, and disciplined while following the above tips. Trust me, you will crack the exams smoothly, and the transition will be a cakewalk to score a 7 in IB Chemistry.