How to get an A Star in IGCSE Physics

What is IGCSE Physics?

IGCSE Physics is a course for those who are studying at schools or colleges; it can also be taken by independent candidates with careful preparation. The course gives students a clear understanding of the fundamental principles which rule the physical world. IGCSE Physics is ideal for students who have a strong understanding of scientific concepts and who also wish to explore how things work on a complex level. Success with this subject not only involves mastering a theoretical understanding but also working out how a practical application of these principles can be achieved through both experiments and problem-solving tasks.

IGCSE Physics Syllabus

It is important to understanding the IGCSE Physics specification and syllabus in order to achieve top marks. The syllabus outlines the topics that will be covered, alongside the depth of understanding required in each area, using assessment objectives for each topic area. Topics range from mechanics, waves, and energy, through to electricity and magnetism. The specification is provided by the exam board and needs to be carefully reviewed to check you have covered all areas thoroughly. One approach to this might be that you could break each assessment objective and exam paper down into manageable sections and set yourself targets for each area.

Choosing Among IGCSE Physics Exam Boards

Choosing the right IGCSE Physics exam board is possible if you are an independent student, otherwise your school or college will choose for you. If the board has been chosen by your school, check you are comfortable with it, as each board will have variations in their approach and also emphasis on different topics. The two major boards for IGCSE Physics are Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) and Pearson Edexcel. Within these boards there may be slight variations and differences in the format of exam papers. Make sure you are looking at the correct past papers when you prepare for your exams.

Using IGCSE Physics Past Papers

Past papers are a very important resource when preparing for IGCSE Physics examinations. These papers offer an insight into the types of questions that are likely to appear on your exam papers, and what the examiners’ expectations are in terms of answering those questions. Regular and timed practice with these papers will greatly assist your time management skills during the exams. Once you have practised a paper, you can mark it using the mark scheme, and note where you lost marks, adapting your practice for next time. Experienced teachers and tutors can help to fill any gaps in your preparation. Good luck with your IGCSE Physics preparation.

Resources for Further Reading:

Website

1. Pearson Edexcel IGCSE Physics
2. CIE IGCSE Physics