A Levels H1 & H2 Chemistry Tuition

A Day in the Life of an A Level H1 & H2 Tuition Student at Focus Chemistry

Do you wonder how an A Level H1 & H2 typical tuition lesson at Focus Chemistry is conducted? Want to know what makes Focus Chemistry so special? Delve into a typical day at Focus Chemistry’s A Level H2 group tuition to find out what you will be learning when you take a class with us! 

When a student first enters the studio, they will sign their names to take attendance. Alternatively, they can log on online to catch the lesson remotely as per their convenience! Don’t worry if you miss a lesson - if you do, the lesson is recorded and will be sent to you, so you don’t have to compromise on your revision and progress. 

1. Conceptual Explanation  in A Level H1 & H2 Chemistry tuition classes

One of the essential functions of our Focus Chemistry tutor is to explain the difficult Chemistry concepts a student needs to know to undertake their A Level H1 & H2 Chemistry papers. At Focus Chemistry, we realise that concepts cannot be taught in isolation, and that there needs to be a clear link drawn between the concepts, with supporting evidence so that students can see how all the topics are connected. 

As some concepts may be hard to visualise, Focus Chemistry aids understanding by using different colours to differentiate some details from others, and the drawing of graphs to help visualise the various concepts and processes. Furthermore, colours may be useful in visualing the structures of compounds, such as in organic chemistry. 

2. Discussion of Homework Questions

A good rhetorical question our tutor at Focus Chemistry often asks is, “Why am I teaching you this?” This question precedes an explanation of how the concept currently being taught links to the questions being asked in the A Level H1 & H2 exams. This is an extremely important process as students should not learn by rote memorising information, which will not be useful once the style of the question changes. Students also need to know why they have made mistakes in the past and how not to repeat such mistakes in future exam papers.

Instead, students need to learn the necessary skills such as critical thinking to break down what the question truly is asking for. Students need to be able to reason why and how the concepts taught in class can relate to the exam question, as the subject matter of the exam question will always change. Instead, by having the necessary skills, students will always be able to deal with any novel problem. 

3. Specially curated materials and questions from a wide range of JCs

At Focus Chemistry, we pride ourselves on creating special notes and questions to help our students prepare for any permutation of exam questions during their actual A Levels. Our notes include diagrams and tables to help students explore the link between the Homework Questions from a wide range of JCs which are being discussed each week and the concepts being taught at school. 

Doing difficult questions from a wide range of JCs and attempting rare questions which are created by our own Focus Chemistry tutor will ensure that every student is prepared for whatever permutation of question which comes their way. It is important that the tricky questions requiring a solid interpretation and answering skill are regularly practised, as students will feel more confident if they can do these questions well. 

“Don’t be at the mercy of the paper” is a rather sobering warning by our tutor, who advises A Levels students to always be prepared for any question that comes out. Often, many Singaporean students study by memorising the concepts, and once a compound comes out which they have never seen before, they will panic and not be able to answer the question properly. However, it is the relevant skills such as critical thinking and deriving the concepts needed to answer the question from the instructions which students need to develop to answer the varying permutations of questions.

Moreover, Focus Chemistry places emphasis on how to write answers to explain the sub-questions which follow the main questions. It is important that students know how to express themselves and their understanding of the concepts clearly and concisely, as the marker needs to see the relevant keywords to award the students the marks. As such, Focus Chemistry will give its students examples of how to answer the exam questions during A Levels, so that students may adopt a similar writing style.  

4. Using the Socratic Method to encourage critical thinking

When students think of Chemistry tuition, they often think of sitting and being lectured about Chemistry concepts for 2 hours straight. However, at Focus Chemistry, that could not be further from the truth. After going through a particular concept, Focus Chemistry will reinforce the students’ understanding via the Socratic method of asking questions until the root of the issue is reached. Students can achieve true understanding of the concepts by asking “Why?” until they are able to explain the fundamental details of every concept, and break down every question into its individual parts. 

As you can see, a day in the life of a Focus Chemistry A Levels student involves the necessary skills needed to succeed not only during the A Levels Chemistry exam, but also in the student’s future university and employment. Skills like critical thinking, reasoning, and the ability to flexibly interpret any questions that comes along are very much part of the learning process at Focus Chemistry.

We hope that your child works with Focus Chemistry to achieve the grades they want for their A Level exam, while picking up valuable, transferable skills along the way.

What are the 5 reasons for low national distinction rates?

Despite Singapore’s reputation for academic excellence, certain subjects, such as Chemistry, have relatively low distinction rates at the national level. Here are the five key reasons:

1. High Content Density and Complexity

The A-Level syllabus covers an extensive range of topics, requiring students to master theoretical concepts, calculations, and practical applications. Many students struggle to keep up with the fast-paced curriculum.

2. Weak conceptual Understanding 

Many students rely on rote memorisation rather than deep comprehension. Without understanding fundamental principles, they find it difficult to apply knowledge to novel or integrated questions.

3. Challenging Application-Based Questions

National exams emphasise critical thinking and problem-solving. The shift from direct recall to application-based questions makes it difficult for students to secure distinction grades.

4. Lack of exam strategies 

Exams require precise time management, structured answering techniques, and familiarity with question trends. Students who do not practice exam-oriented strategies often lose marks due to poor time allocation or misinterpretation of questions.

5. Inconsistent Revision and Practice

Many students struggle with consistency in revision and fail to attempt enough practice papers under timed conditions. Without exposure to a variety of question types, they may be caught off guard during exams.

What are the benefits that students will gain from the H1 & H2 A Level Chemistry Tuition?

Enrolling in a structured H1 & H2 A Level Chemistry tuition program like Focus Chemistry will provide students with multiple benefits:

1. Stronger Conceptual Foundation

Students receive clear explanations of fundamental concepts, helping them develop a deeper understanding rather than relying solely on memorization.

2. Improved Problem-Solving skills

Lessons are structured to train students in applying concepts to different question types, enhancing their analytical and problem-solving abilities.

3. Exposure to Exam-Style Questions

Regular practice with past-year questions and higher-order thinking problems prepares students for the challenges of national exams.

4. Personalised Guidance and Support

With small class sizes or individual attention, students receive tailored feedback and targeted assistance in weak areas.

5. Effective Study and Exam Techniques

Students learn structured answering techniques, time management strategies, and ways to break down complex questions for maximum marks.

How is the quality of Focus Chemistry learning materials and what to expect from them?

High-quality, exam-oriented materials

Focus Chemistry tuition  provides top-tier learning materials designed to reinforce conceptual understanding and exam readiness for H1 & H2 A Level Chemistry. Here’s what students can expect:

1. Concise and Structured Notes

• Summarized key concepts, definitions and formulas for quick revision.

• Clear explanations with diagrams and examples for easy comprehension.

2. Step-by-step worked examples

• Detailed breakdowns of problem-solving approaches to reinforce learning.

• Includes common mistakes and examiner’s expectations for structured answers.

3. Topic-Based Practice Questions

• A variety of questions with increasing difficulty levels to strengthen understanding.

• Exposure to common question trends in past-year papers.

4. Mock Papers and Timed Practices

• Full-length practice papers with marking schemes to simulate exam conditions.

• Helps students improve time management and question and interpretation skills.

5. Practical and Data-Based Question Drills

• Special focus on practical-based and data analysis questions, which are common in national exams.

• Helps students gain confidence in handling experimental data and graphical interpretations.

Overall Expectation:

Students can expect from our tuition programmes a structured, systematic learning approach that provides conceptual clarity, ample practice, and strategic exam techniques to help them maximize their Chemistry grades in H1 & H2 A Level Chemistry.

List of subtopics to tackle and number of hours required for each A Level Chemistry Tuition Topics

The following breakdown provides a structured plan for mastering A Level Chemistry tuition topics, along with estimated time required for each subtopic.

 

Contact us here to secure your slot today!

Email us at enquiry.focuschemistry.com@gmail.com

Call us at +65 9616 1651 or +65 8298 0709

H1 & H2 A Level Chemistry Tuition Frequently Asked Questions:

a) Which is the best H2 chemistry tuition in Singapore?

Focus Chemistry is the best H2 Chemistry tuition in Singapore as they are a Chemistry specialist catering to various levels. Focus Chemistry has curated materials and a tried-and-tested teaching style which enables students to achieve true understanding of the concepts tested.

b) How much are JC tuition fees?

Some JCs (Independent schools) are more expensive than others, like ACS(I) whose fees start from $500 a month for Singaporean students. Other JCs may be cheaper.

c) How much does tuition cost in Singapore?

The cost of tuition depends on how many classes taken, and whether they are group classes or individual one-to-one tuition classes.

d) What is the difference between H1 and H2 Chemistry?

H2 Chemistry is more difficult than H1 Chemistry as H2 Chemistry focuses more on organic Chemistry concepts. H1 Chemistry does not place a heavy emphasis on Organic Chemistry, instead focusing more heavily on polymerisation and nanomaterials.

e) Is H2 Chemistry easy?

H2 Chemistry is challenging for students without a good foundation of Chemistry concepts. Focus Chemistry can help H2 Chemistry students improve their grades by helping them achieve true understanding of the concepts which are being taught at school.

f) Where are your H1 & H2 A Level Chemistry Tuition classes held?

Balmoral Plaza

g) Are online live lessons effective?

Yes, online H1 & H2 Chemistry live tuition lessons can be highly effective when conducted properly. They provide real-time interaction, allowing students to ask questions and receive immediate feedback. With structured lesson plans, digital resources, and recorded sessions for review, students can learn flexibly and at their own pace. However, effectiveness depends on the student engagement, discipline, and access to quality teaching materials. In Focus Chemistry tuition, you need not worry, as all of the resources will be provided to our students, ensuring that they have the best and most enjoyable experience when studying and revising for A Level Chemistry.

h) Do you offer a free trial?

The trial will be a paid trial and is charged as one lesson. After the trial, if the student continues, the student will be given one complimentary lesson after paying one month of fees. This promotion only applies to group lessons with Focus Chemistry.

i) Is H2 A Level Chemistry Tuition necessary?

H2 Chemistry is one of the most demanding subjects in the Singapore A Level curriculum. While tuition may not be mandatory, it is highly beneficial for many students due to the following reasons:

1. Heavy Content Load and Conceptual Depth

• The H2 Chemistry syllabus is extensive, covering advanced topics like reaction mechanisms

• School lessons may move too fast for some students to fully grasp complex theories, making additional support essential.

2. High Application and Analytical Skills Required

• A-level questions are not purely recall-based, they require students to apply concepts in unfamiliar scenarios and different contexts

• Many students struggle to link topics and analyze data-heavy or multi-step questions, which tuition can help break down systematically.

3. Strong Competition for University Placements

• Many students need high distinctions (A or B grades) to enter competitive courses like Medicine, Pharmacy, or Engineering.

• Tuition provides structured revision and targeted practice, helping students improve their exam techniques and maximize their scores.

4. School teaching may not be sufficient

• Class sizes in schools can be large, limiting individual attention from teachers.

• Students who struggle may not get enough explanation or practice time in school, making tuition a valuable supplement.

5. Exam and Time Management Strategies

• H2 Chemistry exams require precise answering techniques and efficient time allocation.

• Tuition provides time practice, structured approaches, and question analysis techniques, ensuring students develop exam confidence.

H2 A Level Chemistry tuition is not compulsory, but it significantly benefits students who struggle with concept application, need more personalised guidance, or aim for top grades in a highly competitive environment.

k) Are you the only Chemistry tutor conducting the classes or do you engage other tutors to do that?

At Focus Chemistry Tuition Centre, we have a dedicated and specialized team of two expert Chemistry tutors who personally conduct all H1 & H2 A Level Chemistry classes. We do not engage external tutors or part-time instructors, ensuring that every student receives consistent, high-quality teaching from experienced professionals.

l) Why This Approach?

1. Maintaining Teaching Quality & Consistency

• Unlike larger tuition centers that employ multiple tutors with varying teaching styles, we ensure that all students receive uniform, well-structured H1 & H2 A Level Chemistry tuition lessons designed to maximize their understanding and exam performance.
• Our two tutors personally curate the curriculum, lesson materials, and practice exercises to ensure they align with national exam standards.

2. Small, Focused Class Sizes

• With only two tutors, we prioritize small class sizes, allowing for better student engagement, personalized attention, and customized learning plans.
• Students benefit from direct interaction with tutors who track their progress closely and provide targeted feedback.

3. Specialized Expertise

• Both tutors are highly qualified and have years of experience teaching H1 & H2 A Level Chemistry.
• We bring a deep understanding of common student difficulties, ensuring that lessons are structured to address misconceptions and build strong problem-solving skills.

4. Personalized Support & Student Relationships

• As the tutors personally oversee every student’s learning journey, we build stronger tutor-student relationships, ensuring that students feel comfortable asking questions and seeking guidance.
• This approach fosters better motivation, accountability, and results.

m) How well do your students perform after attending your H2 A Level Chemistry tuition classes?

Students who attend our H2 A Level Chemistry tuition classes consistently show significant improvement in their understanding, confidence, and grades. Here’s how our students typically progress:

1. Grade Improvement Statistics

• Many students improve by 2-3 grade bands within a few months of tuition.

• A high percentage of our students secure A or B grades in their A Level Chemistry exams.

2. Better Conceptual Mastery and Problem-Solving Skills

• Before joining, many students struggle with reaction mechanisms, calculation-heavy questions, and data analysis.

• Through step-by-step guidance, they gain clarity in complex topics, allowing them to answer challenging questions with confidence.

3. Increased Confidence and Exam Readiness

• Many students lack confidence in tackling high-order thinking questions.

• After attending tuition, they become more adept at recognising question patterns, structuring responses, and managing time effectively.

4. Success Stories

• Case Study 1: A student initially scoring D/E improved to an A by learning structured answering techniques and mastering key exam strategies.

• Case Study 2: Another student struggled with organic chemistry but, through targeted practice and explanation, was able to secure a B grade improvement within six months.

5.  Personalised Support Leading to Better performance

• Unlike in school, where teachers may not have time to address individual doubts, our H1 & H2 A Level Chemistry tuition program ensures each student receives customized feedback and learning strategies tailored to their weaknesses.

n) Is there a makeup lesson if I miss a class?

No, unfortunately there would not be a makeup lesson. But fret not, if your child has missed a lesson in a group class, the recording of the lesson and the lesson notes will be emailed to your child.

o) Is chemistry A level worth it?

Yes, taking H2 Chemistry at the A Level is definitely worth it for students who plan to pursue further studies in science, medicine, or engineering. Here’s why:

1. Essential for University Admissions

• H2 Chemistry is a prerequisite for many competitive courses in Singapore and overseas, including:

1. Medicine & Dentistry (NUS, NTU, Duke-NUS)
2. Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences
3. Chemical & Environmental Engineering

• Without H2 Chemistry, students may limit their university and career options.

2. Strong Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills

• Chemistry trains students to think critically, analyze data, and solve complex problems.

• These skills are valuable in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, research, and finance.

3. High-Scoring Subject for University Entry

• Chemistry can be a scoring subject if students master the concepts and apply structured answering techniques.

• Many students achieve distinctions with proper guidance and practice, making it an asset for their overall A-Level results.

4. Career & Research Opportunities

• Chemistry opens doors to careers in:

1. Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology
2. Environmental Science & Sustainability
3. Chemical Engineering & Research

• It is also useful in interdisciplinary fields like data science, forensic chemistry, and materials engineering.

5. Developing a Strong Scientific Foundation

• Even for students who do not pursue chemistry-related careers, the subject fosters:

1. Logical reasoning & analytical thinking
2. Understanding of real-world applications, from drug design to climate science
3. Quantitative skills useful in business & finance