Science
Science is a really popular subject with most children at the outset. They know something about mini beasts and love the magic of a puff of smoke or electric current to liven up the school day. Beyond the basics, some elements can be pretty complex and need unravelling. Prep School Tutor has some really excellent Science teachers. Do have a browse or ask for recommendations.
11+
Schools that include a Science paper as part of the 11+ Common Entrance will likely use the ISEB Common Entrance papers. These assess energy, movement and forces as well as material behaviour, life and living things and the environment, Earth and the solar system. There is a growing trend for Science to be an integral part of an assessment day. A number of schools invite the children to attend a Science lesson during their visit. As well as the academic side, those observing are looking for classroom skills, such as listening, being involved in group work and social interaction with peers.
13+
Scientific ideas and explanations can be interesting, enthralling even but, when it comes down to the detail, is it all slightly baffling as well? Prep School Tutors encourage every child to be confident in their understanding of Science and to recognise connections across the disciplines of Chemistry, Physics and Biology. The tutors instil an enjoyment of the subject through their own passion, motivating their tutees to discuss and explain phenomena, think beyond the detail given and so draw their own conclusions. Ultimately, with guidance, each child can learn to apply their experimental and investigative skills with confidence and find for themselves their own eureka moment!
GCSE
The Science Curriculum at GCSE offers a wide variety of syllabuses, ranging from Combined Science at GCSE, Single and Double Award International GCSE, through to the three Separate Sciences at both GCSE and International GCSE (IGCSE).
Private schools use both GCSE and IGCSE qualifications, and understanding what is needed for each exam can be daunting. The range of skills and knowledge needed for Physics, Chemistry and Biology also vary greatly. Not only are there the facts and formulae to be learned, but pupils also need to interpret data, analyse information, use mathematical skills to solve problems, comment upon practicals and experiments, explain results, describe processes, suggest solutions, write accurate answers – all the while demonstrating their scientific knowledge and using the correct scientific language. Phew! If all this seems too much, then don’t worry, experienced tutors can help pupils to cut through the confusion and concentrate upon what is needed.
By breaking down subject areas into manageable sections, tutors can guide pupils through the subject knowledge and can explain how to spot what each question is actually asking. Then, pupils can learn how to give their answers in a way that will score the most marks. Importantly, tutoring can help pupils to not lose marks, whether through inexperience, careless mistakes or lack of exam technique.
Tutors are very aware though, that too much emphasis on exams and grades can destroy pupils’ interest and motivation in Science. The best learning happens when imagination is sparked and pupils ask “how” and “why”. Science tutoring can be inspirational as well as informational and all tutors try to make lessons not only educational, but also enjoyable. With the right approach, tutoring for Science GCSE can help remove exam pressure and achieve great results.