Overview
This revision session focused on effective strategies, essential knowledge, and last-minute tips to help students prepare for the GCSE Physics Paper 1 exam.
Key Study Strategies
- Always read all options in multiple choice questions and rule out the impossible answers.
- When writing methods or explanations, use short, clear sentences and cover every step.
- Use the “FIFA” method for calculations: Formula, Insert numbers, Fine-tune, Answer.
- Highlight or underline important numbers and instructions in exam questions.
- Use a ruler when drawing graphs or charts.
- Check calculator functions and ensure proper units are used in all calculations.
Required Practicals and Methods
- For irregular objects (e.g., crown) use a displacement can, beaker, and measuring cylinder to find volume.
- To calculate density: density = mass / volume, mass from balance, volume from displacement.
- When drawing circuit diagrams, add components (e.g., variable resistor, voltmeter) in correct series or parallel positions.
- Be familiar with standard circuit symbols for components such as diodes, resistors, and lamps.
- Know how to obtain and record I-V characteristics for different components (resistor: straight line, filament lamp: curve, diode: threshold then steep rise).
Key Physical Principles & Calculations
- Use correct equations from the equation sheet for calculations involving density, power, resistance, energy, and speed.
- Rearranging equations may be necessary; practice using algebra or triangle rearrangement methods.
- Always ensure units are correct (e.g., meters not centimeters, kilograms not grams).
- For energy changes: gravitational potential energy = mass × gravitational field strength × height.
- For kinetic energy: kinetic energy = 0.5 × mass × (speed)^2.
Exam Techniques & Tips
- If unsure of a multiple choice, always make a guess; do not leave blank.
- Answer all questions in the provided spaces and show all working.
- If the exam paper or equation sheet is missing or incorrect, alert an invigilator immediately.
- Clearly label answers and structure longer responses sensibly.
- For stress management, use breathing or visualization techniques to stay calm during the exam.
Radiation & Atomic Structure
- Alpha decay emits a helium nucleus (mass number 4, atomic number 2).
- Beta decay emits a fast-moving electron (atomic number changes by +1, mass number unchanged).
- Gamma radiation is an electromagnetic wave: most penetrating, least ionizing.
- Half-life is the time for half the radioactive nuclei in a sample to decay.
Electricity & National Grid
- The National Grid transfers electricity using step-up transformers (increase voltage, reduce energy loss) and step-down transformers (reduce voltage for safe usage).
- Power = potential difference × current.
- V = I × R (Ohm's Law); use for current, voltage, or resistance calculations.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Density — mass per unit volume of a substance.
- FIFA method — Formula, Insert numbers, Fine-tune, Answer.
- Ohm’s Law — The relationship V = IR, linking voltage, current, and resistance.
- Alpha particle — Helium nucleus (2 protons, 2 neutrons).
- Beta particle — High-energy, fast-moving electron.
- Gamma ray — Electromagnetic wave emitted from nuclei.
- Half-life — Time required for half of a radioactive substance to decay.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review required practical methods and equipment.
- Practice rearranging equations and ensure familiarity with units.
- Ensure you have calculator, ruler, and correct exam paper on exam day.
- Complete any additional revision, focusing on weak areas.
- Fill out feedback survey as requested in session.