How to Pass Unit 1 IAL Chemistry in One Month: A Data-Backed Study Guide

Hosni Showike • 2 December 2025

The High-Weight Topics You MUST Focus On for Unit 1 IAL Chemistry

Thumbnail image showing a chemistry teacher smiling beside bold text that reads “This Is the Best Way to Revise Unit 1 Chemistry,” used for a blog post about effective Unit 1 IAL Chemistry revision strategies.

Preparing for Edexcel IAL Chemistry Unit 1 in just 30 days is possible—but only if you study the right topics. This guide shows you exactly what to focus on, based on real exam data.


What You Need to Know About the Exam

Unit 1 Chemistry is worth 40% of your AS Chemistry grade. The exam has 80 total marks split into two sections: multiple-choice questions and written answers [^1].

Here's the key insight: not all topics are equally important. Past exam papers show that certain topics appear much more often than others [^2]:

  • Stoichiometry (mole calculations): 25-30% of marks
  • Bonding and structure: 25% of marks
  • Atomic structure and periodic trends: 20-25% of marks
  • Organic chemistry: 20% of marks

These four topics make up over 90% of the exam. If you master them, you'll pass [^3].

Your 4-Week Study Plan

Week 1: Fix Your Weak Areas First

Start by studying the topics that confuse you most. This seems backwards, but it works. When you strengthen your weak areas early, you'll have time to practice harder questions later [^4].

What to study this week:

  • Days 1-3: The mole concept and stoichiometry (how to calculate moles, balance equations, find percentage yield)
  • Days 4-7: Atomic structure (electron configurations, atomic radius, ionization energy)
  • Don't try to memorise everything. Instead, solve practice problems with your textbook open. When you get a question wrong, look up the answer and understand why it's correct [^4].

Week 2: Master the Four Key Topics

This week, you're moving from understanding concepts to solving exam-style questions. Work through written questions (not multiple-choice yet) because mark schemes explain the answers in detail [^4].

Focus on these four areas:

1. Stoichiometry and the Mole Concept

  • Calculate moles from mass and volume
  • Balance chemical equations
  • Find percentage yield and atom economy

2. Atomic Structure and Periodic Trends

  • Write electron configurations (1s², 2s², 2p⁶, etc.)
  • Explain why atomic radius decreases across a period
  • Explain why ionisation energy increases across a period

3. Bonding and Structure

  • Understand ionic, covalent, and metallic bonding
  • Explain how bonding affects melting point and conductivity
  • Draw dot-and-cross diagrams

4. Organic Chemistry

  • Free radical substitution of alkanes (the mechanism and steps)
  • Electrophilic addition to alkenes (how alkenes react with bromine and hydrogen)
  • How to test for alkenes using bromine water
  • For organic chemistry, draw the reaction mechanisms on flashcards. Draw them by hand multiple times. Your brain remembers things better when you physically write them [^4].

Week 3: Practice Past Papers

You have access to roughly 20 past papers from 2019 to 2025. These are your best study tool [^4].

Here's how to use them:

  1. Complete one full paper every 2-3 days
  2. Time yourself: finish in 70-80 minutes (the actual exam length)
  3. Start with written questions first—they have better mark scheme explanations

Write down every mistake you make and organize them by topic

As you work through papers, you'll notice the same question types repeat. Once you recognize the patterns, you'll know what to expect on exam day [^4].

Week 4: Final Practice and Review

In the final week, complete 2-3 full mock exams under real exam conditions (no notes, no distractions, 70-80 minutes each). Do these by Wednesday or Thursday, not the night before your actual exam [^4].

After each mock, review your mistakes. Focus on the topics where you made the most errors. These are your weak spots.


How to Study Each Day

You don't need to study for 8 hours straight. Instead, study for 2-3 hours with focus. Here's a simple daily structure [^3]:

  • 20 minutes: Review flashcards (periodic trends, electron configurations, organic mechanisms)
  • 20 minutes: Test yourself without notes (try to recall information from memory, then check if you're right)
  • 20 minutes: Solve 5 practice questions on one topic

Rotate through different topics each day so you cover everything.

The Calculation Question Advantage

Here's something important: calculation questions are easier to get marks on than you think [^3].

Mark schemes give 67% of the marks just for showing your working—even if your final answer is wrong [^3]. This means if you show all your steps, you'll get most of the marks.

Always do this for calculation questions:

  • Write down the formula you're using
  • Show every single step
  • Include units in every answer
  • If you're stuck, write something—partial credit exists

Master these calculation types:

  • Mole calculations (from mass, volume, concentration)
  • Percentage yield
  • Empirical and molecular formulas

Organic Chemistry: The Must-Know Topic

Organic mechanisms appear in every past paper [^4]. You cannot skip this.

Free radical substitution of alkanes:

  • Initiation: UV light breaks Cl-Cl bonds
  • Propagation: Free radicals attack alkane molecules
  • Termination: Free radicals combine and stop reacting

Electrophilic addition to alkenes:

  • The C=C double bond attracts the bromine molecule
  • A carbocation forms (positively charged carbon)
  • The bromide ion attacks the carbocation
  • Product: a dibromide

Draw these mechanisms on flashcards and review them every day. Your hand should be able to draw them without thinking.


What to Do on Exam Day

During the exam, you have two choices [^4]:

  1. Follow the paper in order (start with question 1)
  2. Do written questions first, then multiple-choice

Practice both ways during your mock exams. Figure out which one helps you manage time better and feel less stressed.

The night before the exam: Don't do another practice paper. Instead, review your flashcards and the mistakes you've made. Get good sleep—your brain needs rest to remember information [^4].

The Best Resources to Use


The Bottom Line

Unit 1 Chemistry isn't about being a genius. It's about studying smart. Focus on the four topics that make up 90% of the exam: stoichiometry, atomic structure, bonding, and organic chemistry [^3].

Show all your working on calculations. Draw organic mechanisms until they're automatic. Practice past papers. Bookmark your mistakes and review them.

If you follow this plan for 30 days, you'll pass Unit 1 Chemistry.

Sources:


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IGCSE and IAL Guide for 2025 - 2026 Exams

illustration showing an IGCSE Chemistry student studying moles, electrolysis

The 3 Hardest IGCSE Chemistry Topics You Can Actually Master for 2026

by Hosni Showike • 12 January 2026
What’s really the hardest IGCSE Chemistry topic? Past-paper analysis shows three repeated pain points — with clear patterns you can learn. Many students ask for the hardest IGCSE Chemistry topic. However, exam evidence shows that most marks are lost in clusters of related skills , not single chapters. The three most difficult clusters are: Quantitative Chemistry (moles and calculations) Electrolysis Chemical Equilibria (Extended candidates) Independent analysis of real exam questions highlights multi-step chain calculations, abstract redox and electrode reasoning, and extended equilibrium explanations as the most common causes of lost marks. This pattern is clearly documented in Save My Exams’ analysis of the hardest IGCSE Chemistry questions. Chemistry is also ranked among the hardest IGCSE subjects overall because it spans organic, inorganic, physical chemistry, and practical skills — significantly increasing cognitive load across the year. Most importantly, these topics are not optional . The Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry 0620 syllabus (2026–2028) places stoichiometry, electrochemistry, and equilibrium reasoning at the core of the assessment objectives. Why these topics are hardest (and how to beat them with evidence-based methods) Chain calculations, product-prediction rules, and mini-essays built from past-paper patterns explain where marks are lost — and how to secure them. Quantitative Chemistry: where chain calculations sink scores What the data shows High-mark mole questions (4–6 marks) are deliberately structured so each step depends on the previous one; a single early error (units or rounding) collapses the final answer. Common mistakes include mixing cm³ and dm³, premature rounding, and skipping method steps — all repeatedly highlighted in examiner-style breakdowns. The 0620 syllabus explicitly requires mastery of reacting masses, volumes, concentrations, and empirical and molecular formulae, ensuring these chains appear under time pressure. What actually works Use a fixed calculation sequence every time: Units → moles → mole ratio (balanced equation) → required quantity → round once at the end. This mirrors method-mark logic used in official mark schemes. Electrolysis: ions, redox, and predicting products What the data shows Students frequently lose marks by confusing electrode products in aqueous solutions and mishandling half-equations. These errors are common in unfamiliar contexts such as industrial cells or novel diagrams. The 0620 syllabus explicitly assesses electron transfer, oxidation and reduction, and the differences between molten and aqueous electrolysis. What actually works Anchor every answer to clear rules: Cations → cathode (reduction) Anions → anode (oxidation) In aqueous solutions, expect competition (H₂ vs metal, O₂ vs halogen) and justify using discharge rules — not guesswork. Chemical Equilibria (Extended): yield vs rate, stated with precision What the data shows Candidates lose marks by confusing rate with yield or by omitting key phrases such as “the position of equilibrium shifts”. Examiner reports consistently penalise vague explanations. Equilibrium and Le Chatelier’s Principle are examinable for Extended candidates in the 0620 syllabus. What actually works Use a four-line mini-essay template: State the change Predict the shift (left or right) Justify (particles, enthalpy, or pressure) Conclude the effect on yield This structure closely mirrors mark-scheme phrasing. The deeper cause: disconnected learning raises cognitive load IGCSE Chemistry exam questions frequently blend topics — for example, calculations inside electrolysis or redox explanations within industrial contexts. Studying chapters in isolation increases error rates. A chain-link approach connects ideas in the same order the exam uses them: Atomic Structure → Ions → Bonding → Structure & Properties → Reactions → Redox → Electrolysis A free, structured fix for 2026 candidates Built around the exact exam weaknesses seen in data, the free IGCSE Chemistry course is designed to address documented problem areas: Chain calculations taught step-by-step to secure method marks Electrolysis and redox placed after ions and bonding to reduce concept jumps Equilibrium explanations trained using examiner-approved language for 4–6 mark questions 👉 Free IGCSE Chemistry course (0620 – 2026 exams) A 4-step, data-aligned plan to raise your grade Step 1: Build the chain Follow Atomic Structure → Ions → Bonding → Structure & Properties before redox and electrolysis. Step 2: Tackle the hard trio with scaffolds Use fixed templates for mole calculations, electrode predictions, and equilibrium writing. Step 3: Train on mixed-context questions Practise questions that combine topics, just like real exam papers. Step 4: Write to the mark scheme Use required phrases such as “the position of equilibrium shifts” and “yield increases/decreases” to secure full marks. Sources Save My Exams – Hardest IGCSE Chemistry Questions & How to Answer Them Points Edu Lab – Top 10 Hardest IGCSE Subjects (2025) Cambridge International – IGCSE Chemistry 0620 Syllabus (2026–2028) chem-bio.info – Best Study Strategy for IGCSE Chemistry 2026
British GCSE student wearing a traditional school uniform (navy blazer, white shirt and striped tie)

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by Hosni Showike • 12 January 2026
A grade 9 is rare on purpose, but you don’t need perfection. On Cambridge Higher Tier Biology (2019–2022), the average percentage needed for a 9 was about 66%, based on examiner-authored analysis of grade boundaries and paper performance. Is a 9 Really That Hard? Why the top grade is rare—and how data says it’s within reach Top grades are meant to be hard to protect standards, according to examiner-teacher commentary Biology has a large content load across many topics. Student guides flag the “vast amount of content” as the key challenge in Study Mind . At least 20% of GCSE science marks are maths-based (graphs, calculations, data). Many students underprepare for this, as highlighted by My GCSE Science . With spec-led study, active recall, and heavy past-paper practice, a 9 is realistic. Multiple guides converge on this approach, including Study Mind , and The Exam Coach . What Examiners Say You Must Do The evidence-based path to top marks Master the specification: Work from your exam-board spec so you don’t miss examinable content or waste time off-spec, as advised by Study Mind Target weak topics: Use tests to find gaps and spend more time there, recommended by Study Mind and Duke’s Tutoring . Spaced repetition and active recall: Use flashcards and self-quizzing to move facts into long-term memory, supported by Study Mind and The Exam Coach . Past papers + mark schemes: Practise at real difficulty and mark harshly using official schemes, as stressed by Primrose Kitten . Learn command words and AOs (AO1–AO3): Terms like “describe”, “explain”, and “evaluate” have specific mark-scheme expectations, explained by Primrose Kitten . Plan early, not last minute: Long-term structured revision correlates with higher grades, according to Study Mind and Cambridge Online Tutors . Why chem-bio.info Is Your Edge for a Grade 9 1) Updated to the latest syllabus Evidence shows spec-led revision prevents wasted effort and gaps, supported by Study Mind chem-bio.info maps directly to current AQA, Edexcel, and OCR specifications, including required practicals and terminology. 2) Built around the mark scheme Examiners advise strict self-marking using official schemes, as highlighted by Primrose Kitten . chem-bio.info provides model answers with clear mark allocation. 3) Created by an exam expert (Hosni, 20+ years) Examiner-led insight reduces common mistakes, emphasised by Primrose Kitten , and Chapkin Edwards . 4) Engaging delivery that boosts memory Spaced repetition and active recall are proven strategies in Biology, according to Study Mind and The Exam Coach . chem-bio.info uses concise explanations, clean diagrams, and recall checks. 5) Solved past papers and high-probability questions High-scoring students complete many past papers, as shown by Cambridge Online Tutors , and Primrose Kitten . A Weekly Plan You Can Copy with chem-bio.info Short, specific, data-driven steps Monday–Tuesday: Learn and check Use chem-bio.info notes matched to your board spec. Confirm AO1 knowledge with embedded checks Wednesday: Active recall on weak areas Use flashcards and exam-style questions. Based on findings from Study Mind . Thursday: Required practicals + data Practise methods, variables, and graph questions. Maths weighting highlighted by My GCSE Science . Friday: Timed mixed questions + harsh marking Mark strictly using scheme-style answers. Strategy supported by Save My Exams and Primrose Kitten . Weekend: Past-paper chunk + review Build stamina and track errors. Backed by Save My Exams and Cambridge Online Tutors . Resources Study Mind The Exam Coach My GCSE Science Duke’s Tutoring Cambridge Online Tutors Primrose Kitten Chapkin Edwards
IGCSE 9–1 grading scale explained with a visual comparison

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by Hosni Showike • 2 January 2026
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Cover image for an educational article asking “Is IGCSE Really Hard?” showing two secondary-school?

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by Hosni Showike • 27 December 2025
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by Hosni Showike • 24 December 2025
Why IGCSE tutoring demand is spiking in Saudi Arabia Saudi families are prioritizing IGCSE support because competition for selective schools and scholarships is rising across the Gulf, and students face strict, mark‑scheme‑driven exams. Cambridge and Edexcel both publish examiner reports that show students lose marks for missing command words, weak data handling, and poor practical answers—areas tutoring can fix. See Cambridge’s guidance on command words and mark schemes and examiner reports for recurring pitfalls. Cambridge IGCSE Examiner Reports: see biology and chemistry reports via Cambridge International’s assessment resources (requires school login; summarized in public teacher guides). Edexcel IGCSE Examiner Reports and mark schemes: public series pages list common mistakes and expected marking points. Note: Platform pages below provide verifiable service claims (coverage, approach, exam alignment, and delivery model). The three types of IGCSE tutoring options serving KSA GCC/KSA-focused centers: home and online delivery, broad subjects, local presence. Examples: ACE Education , London Education Centre , Points Edulab . Global online platforms: large tutor pools, multi‑board coverage, 1‑to‑1 online. Examples: weteach@Catalyze , Sylbridge , TuTopics , Academia UK , Kochi Online Tuition . Subject specialists: narrower focus, deeper exam methods. Example: chem-bio.info (cite the specific pages you use for fees, resources, and board alignment). Why this matters: Examiner reports and mark schemes for CAIE and Edexcel reward precise techniques (command word strategy, data analysis, practicals). Subject specialists tend to build sessions directly around these documents. Provider snapshots (what the pages state) ACE Education (GCC/KSA) Targets Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Al Khobar with home and online tutoring; 1‑to‑1 lessons. Covers Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, English, Business, Economics, ICT. Uses past papers, mark schemes, and explicit exam strategy. Source: ACE Education Claims 125k+ hours, 12k+ students, 17+ years; 1‑to‑1 online; CAIE/Edexcel/AQA tutors; 5‑step vetting. Starts with diagnostics; personalized plans; KSA‑friendly scheduling; performance reports. Source: weteach@Catalyze Sylbridge (KSA online) Markets “best Saudi Arabia online tutors” for IGCSE/GCSE/IB; Riyadh, Jeddah, Mecca, Dammam; 1‑to‑1 online. Covers Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, CS, English, Economics, Business, History, Geography. Source: Sylbridge TuTopics, LEC, Points, Academia UK, Kochi Online Tuition (breadth providers) TuTopics: IGCSE + IB + A‑Levels; exam readiness; digital tools. Source: TuTopics LEC: Cambridge IGCSE in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam; personalized Cambridge tutoring. Source: LEC Points Edulab: IGCSE online + personal counselling. Source: Points Edulab Academia UK: O‑level/IGCSE/A‑level; individualized attention; 24/7 recorded lessons/resources. Source: Academia UK Kochi Online Tuition: CBSE, ICSE, IGCSE, IB, American/British; KG–Grade 12. Source: Kochi Online Tuition What “best for IGCSE 2026” should mean (with sources) To judge tutoring value for 2026, tie claims to exam data: Exam‑board alignment: Tutors should map lessons to CAIE/Edexcel specs and mark schemes; both boards release detailed syllabuses and marking guidance every series. See Edexcel series pages and Cambridge teacher resources. Updated resources: Past papers, examiner reports, and updated syllabuses flag recurring topics and mistakes (e.g., data interpretation, practical methodology). Exam technique: Command words (“state,” “explain,” “evaluate”) determine marking points; examiner reports stress this. KSA‑friendly delivery: Online evenings/weekends fit local school and prayer schedules (explicit on provider pages like weteach@Catalyze ). Affordability and transparent pricing: Specialists can run lean and offer lower, clear online rates (verify on the specialist’s pricing page). Why a subject specialist can edge ahead for Chemistry/Biology Examiner reports show that chemistry and biology mark losses cluster around: Misreading command terms and missing marking points. Weak treatment of data‑handling and experimental design. Gaps in high‑yield areas (e.g., organic reaction pathways; human physiology processes). A specialist that drills mark‑scheme phrasing, past‑paper patterns, and practicals tends to raise scores faster than a generalist. Cross‑reference this with Cambridge/Edexcel examiner feedback and the specialist’s resource pages. Comparative snapshot (evidence-linked)
editorial illustration for an IAL Biology exam guide showing the four hardest Pearson Edexcel

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by Hosni Showike • 21 December 2025
Short answer: What’s hardest in IAL Biology? There is no official “hardest” topic in the Pearson Edexcel IAL Biology specification, but multiple sources point to four areas: respiration and photosynthesis, genetics and inheritance, immunology and infectious disease, and synoptic/practical skills. This aligns with the specification’s content map and assessment demands, especially application (AO2) and analysis/evaluation (AO3). See the official specification and independent guides for details in the Pearson IAL Biology Specification (Issue 1) and the difficulty overview at Chem-Bio.info . Why these topics are hardest Respiration and photosynthesis (Unit 5) The specification lists glycolysis, link reaction, Krebs cycle, oxidative phosphorylation, and the light-dependent/light-independent reactions with explicit learning outcomes requiring sequence knowledge and energy-carrier tracking. See Unit 5 pages 24–27 in the Pearson specification . Independent guides consistently rank photosynthesis/respiration among the hardest due to abstract cycles and dense terminology, as noted in the content-volume challenges discussed at Chem-Bio.info . Genetics and inheritance (Units 1, 2, 4) The spec covers DNA/RNA, replication, transcription/translation (Unit 1), meiosis and genetic variation (Unit 2), and evolution/speciation (Unit 4), which underpin inheritance patterns, linkage, epistasis, and statistical testing. Refer to pages 6–17 and 20–23 of the Pearson specification . Immunology and infectious disease (Unit 4) The spec details innate and adaptive immunity, vaccination, TB, and HIV, with mechanisms and public-health links emphasised (Unit 4, pages 20–23). See the Pearson specification . The immune system is cited as a hard area because of volume and cross-topic links as noted at Chem-Bio.info . Synoptic/practical skills (Units 3 and 6) Units 3 and 6 assess planning, data handling, analysis, evaluation, and application across the syllabus. AO2 and AO3 are weighted strongly in these assessments (assessment overview and Units 3/6 on pages 10–12, 18–19, 28–33). Source: Pearson specification . Difficulty drivers include unfamiliar contexts and method/stats selection under time pressure, consistent with reports from Chem-Bio.info What this means for your revision High-yield tactics with evidence Focus on application and evaluation The assessment objectives stress AO2 (apply knowledge) and AO3 (analyse/evaluate), especially in Units 3 and 6. Train with unfamiliar scenarios and experiment plans. Evidence: Pearson specification, assessment objectives . Use active recall and spaced practice Retrieval practice and spacing improve long-term retention and transfer. Evidence: Dunlosky et al. (2013), Psychological Science in the Public Interest: DOI link . Interleave similar topics Interleaving helps discriminate between similar concepts (e.g., photosynthesis vs respiration). Evidence: Rohrer (2012), Instructional Science: DOI link . Build process maps Concept mapping improves science learning outcomes; use one-page pathway maps with inputs/outputs and enzymes. Evidence: Nesbit & Adesope (2006), Review of Educational Research: DOI link . Concrete checklists Respiration Track carbons and hydrogens from glucose to CO2 and water; note ATP, NADH, FADH2 at each stage; explain chemiosmosis and proton motive force. Evidence: Unit 5 outcomes in the Pearson specification . Photosynthesis Link photolysis and electron transport to ATP/NADPH, then to Calvin cycle carbon fixation and regeneration. Evidence: Unit 5 outcomes in the Pearson specification . Genetics and inheritance Decide early: linkage or epistasis? State assumptions, compute expected ratios, and run chi-squared with clear degrees of freedom and p-thresholds. Evidence: Units 1–2 and 4 in the Pearson specification Immunology Sequence antigen presentation → clonal selection/expansion → effector/memory responses; compare vaccine types and herd immunity. Evidence: Unit 4 outcomes in the Pearson specification . Synoptic/practical skills For any experiment plan: define variables, controls, repeats; justify method; identify risks/ethics; choose stats (e.g., t-test, chi-squared) with assumptions. Evidence: Units 3 and 6 in the Pearson specification . Quick links and citations Subtitle: Verify every claim and download the spec Official syllabus, AO weightings, and unit content: Pearson IAL Biology Specification (Issue 1) Difficulty overview (content volume, application): Chem-Bio.info — Is A-level Biology Hard? Study methods with strong evidence: Retrieval practice and spacing — Dunlosky et al., 2013 Interleaving — Rohrer, 2012 Concept mapping — Nesbit & Adesope, 2006 Bottom line Hardest areas: respiration/photosynthesis, genetics, immunology, and synoptic/practical skills. Evidence base: official specification scope and AO focus, plus independent difficulty reports. Action: use active recall, interleaving, and spec-aligned checklists to raise AO2/AO3 marks, guided by the Pearson specification and Chem-Bio.info
IGCSE course fees comparison for 2026 showing tuition, registration and exam costs

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by Hosni Showike • 19 December 2025
Fees and Schedule Price model: $4.50 per live class (group), with two sessions per week per subject, recordings included, and support built in. See the details on the Chem-Bio.info Live Classes page: register live classes . Benchmark price: A standalone 60-class IGCSE Chemistry live course is listed at $350, which is about $5.83 per class for that package. See the product page: IGCSE Chemistry 60-class course . Timeline: Classes run September 2025 to June 2026. The plan is to complete the syllabus by February 2026, then run full revision to exams. Source: register live classes . Class cadence: Two classes per week per subject (e.g., explanation + past-paper practice). Source: register live classes . Payments: Bank transfer, credit card, or PayPal; fees cover live classes through exam date. Source: register live classes . Note on totals: The registration page emphasises the $4.50/class model and bundled supports; it does not state a single grand total for the full-year track. See: register live classes . The 60-class course at $350 serves as a price reference for a defined set of sessions: IGCSE Chemistry 60-class course . What You Get in the Live Program All items below are listed on the live classes page and related resources. Live interaction with teachers and immediate clarification: register live classes . On-screen live quizzes during class to check understanding: register live classes . Session recordings for review and catch-up: register live classes . Graded weekly homework, expert feedback, and WhatsApp support: register live classes . Weekly quizzes, monthly tests, and parent reports (weekly/monthly): register live classes . Syllabus plan: finish by February 2026; revision until exams: register live classes . Included materials: topic notes and solved past papers aligned to Core/Extended (Papers 1/2/3/4/6): register live classes and the resources guide: 2026 Chemistry resources guide . Free trials (Kuwait time): Biology (Wed/Thu 17:00 KWT), Chemistry (Sun/Wed 17:00–20:00 KWT): register live classes . Syllabus Alignment (2026–2028) Chemistry syllabus code (Cambridge IGCSE 0620) and 2026–2028 alignment are discussed in the resources guide: 2026 Chemistry resources guide . Topics include core areas such as stoichiometry and electrochemistry, and practical skills for Paper 6, as outlined in Chem-Bio.info ’s resources and blog: 2026 Chemistry resources guide and Chem-Bio.info blog . The live track is designed to end content teaching by February 2026 to allow months of past-paper practice and timed revision before June. Source: register live classes . Cost-Effectiveness vs. UAE Premium Tutoring Data points and sources: Chem-Bio.info charges $4.50 per class in a live group format and includes quizzes, recordings, graded homework, monthly tests, and parent reports: register live classes . A 60-class Chemistry package is listed at $350 as a benchmark: IGCSE Chemistry 60-class course . UAE premium 1-on-1 providers commonly operate at higher hourly rates. Market ranges cited in Chem-Bio.info ’s UAE comparison: TigerCampus UAE ~$50–100+/hour, ACE Education ~$60+/hour, Daniel’s Educational ~$50–80/hour. See the side-by-side review: UAE tutoring comparison . The same UAE comparison and provider listings do not show built-in live quizzes, automatic session recordings, weekly parent reports, or an explicit February completion + revision structure as standard inclusions: UAE tutoring comparison . What this means: On a per-session basis, Chem-Bio.info costs far less than typical UAE hourly rates, while delivering a defined structure with assessments and reporting: register live classes and UAE tutoring comparison . 1-on-1 can be useful for targeted gaps, but a system with frequent quizzes, marked homework, and parent reports supports steady progress over the year. This approach is built into Chem-Bio.info ’s plan: register live classes . 
Close-up of Pearson Edexcel IAL Biology Unit 1 exam paper WBI11/01 with pen

Edexcel IAL AS Biology 2026: A Data-Driven Study Plan

by Hosni Showike • 17 December 2025
This guide is short, direct, and backed by sources. It follows the exam structure and prep plan you saw earlier, with links you can verify. Exam Structure (What You’re Graded On) Unit 1 (WBI11): molecules, diet, transport, health — 1 h 30 m, 80 marks, 40% of AS. Source: the Edexcel IAL AS Biology specification summary via the chem-bio.info specification page Unit 2 (WBI12): cells, development, biodiversity, conservation — 1 h 30 m, 80 marks, 40% of AS. Source: specification page Unit 3 (WBI13): practical skills — 1 h 20 m, 50 marks, 20% of AS. Source: specification page Exam sessions: January, June, October 2026. Source: specification page Why this matters: your plan should weight time roughly 40:40:20 across Units 1–3 to match their mark weightings. Aligning prep time with mark weight is a standard exam strategy supported by exam boards’ weightings. Why Use chem-bio.info As Your Core Platform Coverage: full courses, updated notes, quizzes, flashcards, solved/classified past papers, and live Zoom classes. Sources: the Unit 1 planning article’s course overview on how to master IAL Biology Unit 1 ; the spec breakdown and paper links on the specification page ; and details of live classes on the Jan 2026 revision page . Recency: materials tailored to 2025–2026 patterns and updated with examiner reports and mark schemes. Sources: update notes in the Unit 1 plan and the Jan 2026 revision page . Teaching experience: live classes led by a teacher with 20+ years’ experience (Mr. Hosni). Sources: class info on the Jan 2026 revision page and a teacher strategy video on YouTube . Note: Always verify features and dates on the linked pages before enrolling. 6-Week Plan That Mirrors The Marks Week 1: Master the spec Action: Download the spec breakdown and turn topics into a checklist. Study only what is examinable (e.g., water, enzymes, mitosis, biodiversity). Cutting extras reduces time cost without losing marks. Data link: Edexcel topics summarized on the specification page . Weeks 1–2: Build notes + active recall Action: Use syllabus-aligned notes (eBook) + flashcards + quizzes. Active recall is linked with better retention and exam transfer than re-reading. Data links: IAL-aligned notes/flashcards/quizzes in the Unit 1 plan and exam strategy clips on YouTube . Weeks 2–4: Topic-wise practice Action: After each topic (e.g., enzymes), do classified past questions. For 6-markers, list keywords first, then build structured points. Data links: classified/solved papers in the Unit 1 plan and spec-linked question sets on the specification page . Weeks 4–6+: Full past papers under time Action: Start open-book with 2019 papers (newer spec era), move to closed-book 2022–2025. Time strictly and log errors. Data links: solved papers and marking approach in the Unit 1 plan and the past paper hub on the specification page . Final 4–6 weeks: Live classes + 2–3 mocks/week Action: Join the Jan 2026 revision program. Sit 2–3 full mocks weekly. Review mark schemes to see “examiner language.” Data links: live revision on the Jan 2026 revision page , a strategy short on YouTube Shorts , and a live session short on YouTube Shorts . Unit 3 (Practical): Weekly timed data questions Action: Practice microscopy and data analysis weekly with timed sets. Data links: practical-focused notes/quizzes on the specification page . Target scores for A-range Example: On Unit 1 timed mocks, target 60–65/80 as a working benchmark (then push higher). Data link: benchmark in the Unit 1 planning article . Fast 7-Day Cycle (Use Repeatedly Per Unit) • Days 1–4: Content + quizzes (syllabus-aligned) • Days 5–6: Topic-classified past questions (2019–2023 to start) • Day 7: Timed mock + error log Data link and template plan: see the Unit 1 plan . Exam Technique That Pays Off Write to the mark scheme: list key terms before full sentences on long answers. Data link: worked solutions and technique examples in the Unit 1 plan . Time management: finish early to review. A 10–15 minute review window catches common errors (missed units, incomplete labels). Data link: timing guidance within the Unit 1 plan . Pattern practice: many question styles repeat across years, so daily past questions build speed and accuracy. Data links: classified question banks in the Unit 1 plan and the past papers hub on the specification page . Note on “85% repeats”: The idea refers to repeated patterns and styles across years, not exact questions. You can verify by scanning solved/classified sets on the links above and noting recurring styles (e.g., enzyme graphs, cardiovascular risk factors, osmosis data). How It Compares To Other Free Options
Stack of Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry textbooks with Chem-Bio.info Complete Notes on top,

The Essential Guide to IGCSE Chemistry Resources for 2026 Candidates

by Hosni Showike • 13 December 2025
As students prepare for the IGCSE Chemistry exams in 2026 , having the right resources is crucial for success. One of the best options available is the IGCSE Chemistry Complete Notes by Chem‑Bio.info , which is fully aligned with the new 0620 syllabus for 2026–2028 . This blog post outlines why updated resources are necessary and what makes this particular guide a top choice. 1. Why 2026 Candidates Need Updated Resources Cambridge has revised the IGCSE Chemistry 0620 syllabus for the exams in 2026, 2027, and 2028. This new syllabus consists of 12 core topic areas: States of matter Atoms, elements and compounds Stoichiometry Electrochemistry Chemical energetics Chemical reactions Acids, bases and salts The Periodic Table Metals Chemistry of the environment Organic chemistry Experimental techniques and chemical analysis Assessment is divided into Core and Extended routes, which include multiple-choice and theory papers, plus practical components ( Cambridge International ). Resources created for older syllabuses (like 2023–2025) may not cover the necessary content effectively unless they've been revised to align with the 2026–2028 specification. 2. IGCSE Chemistry Complete Notes by Chem‑Bio.info (for 2026–2028) The Chem‑Bio.info site provides IGCSE Chemistry material explicitly tied to the new 2026–2028 exam structure. Their syllabus guide outlines topic coverage and exam paper weights for both Core and Extended candidates ( Chem-Bio.info ). a) Fully Updated to the 2026–2028 Syllabus Chem‑Bio.info organises its complete notes around the official IGCSE Chemistry topics. The resource includes: Updated topic sequence Detailed structure for Papers 1/2, 3/4, and 6 for Core and Extended candidates Relative weightings for different exam components (e.g., multiple choice 30%, theory 50%, practical 20%) ( Cambridge International ) This alignment ensures students are revising exactly what will appear on the 2026+ exams . 3. Features That Make Chem‑Bio.info One of the Best Options for 2026 3.1 Based on Real Exam Mark Schemes The notes and practice materials are built around Cambridge mark schemes, helping students learn how to phrase answers correctly. This focus is crucial for mastering: Correct scientific vocabulary, terminology, and conventions Clear use of symbols, quantities, and units Accurate definitions, facts, and laws ( Cambridge International ) Using mark-scheme language helps students include the exact keywords and phrases that earn marks on the exam. 3.2 Complete Notes with Mind Maps and Brief Summaries Each topic includes: Step-by-step explanations aligned to syllabus bullet points Mind maps and brief summaries that condense chapters into visual or one-page recaps This structure supports both first-time learning and final revision , making it an effective tool for students ( Chem-Bio.info ). 3.3 All Keywords and Definitions Highlighted in Colour Chem‑ Bio.info emphasizes the importance of mastering definitions and key terms by: Highlighting keywords and mark-scheme points in colour Providing formal definitions for crucial terms that mirror syllabus wording This approach aids in quick recall and helps students create effective study aids like flashcards ( Cambridge International ). 3.4 Integrated Flashcards and Interactive Quizzes The resource complements its notes with flashcards and interactive quizzes, which are essential for: Memorising definitions and tests Practicing calculation skills Using active recall and retrieval practice aligns well with the exam's demands, enhancing students' readiness ( Chem-Bio.info ). 3.5 Ebook Format – Use It Anywhere Available as an ebook, the complete notes can be accessed on various devices, making it easy for students to: Search for specific terms Study on the go This flexibility is particularly beneficial given the dense nature of the 2026–2028 specification ( Chem-Bio.info ). 4. How Chem‑Bio.info Compares to Generic Resources
“Why Content Isn’t Enough for IAL Unit 1 Biology – Effective Revision Strategies”

Why learning the Content Isn't Enough for IAL Unit 1 Biology Do This Instead

by Hosni Showike • 11 December 2025
Preparing for the Unit 1 IAL Biology exam requires a focused approach. This guide outlines a structured plan to help you succeed by focusing on the syllabus content and practicing past papers. 1. Understand the Unit 1 Syllabus Unit 1 is titled Molecules, Diet, Transport and Health (WBI11). According to Pearson's IAL Biology specification, the topics covered include: Biological molecules and water Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins Enzymes Biological membranes & transport across membranes Nucleic acids & genetics Heart and circulation Blood vessels & blood Haemoglobin Cardiovascular disease, risk factors, lifestyle, and diet For a complete breakdown of the syllabus, refer to the Chem-Bio.info syllabus summary or the Pearson Edexcel IAL Biology Specification . 2. Core Strategy: Content and Application Research indicates that students often spend too much time memorizing content instead of applying it. The video "Must Watch Before You Start Revising for Unit 1 Biology Exam in 2026" emphasises that Unit 1 rewards application and pattern recognition over mere memorisation ( Chem-Bio.info ). Suggested Timeline: Weeks 1–2 : Focus on repairing content gaps and building connections between topics. Weeks 3–4 : Engage in intensive past-paper practice while targeting weak areas. Final 1–2 weeks : Conduct mock exams under timed conditions and drill specific question types. 3. Week-by-Week Revision Structure Class Sessions Each week should include two focused sessions: Linking Ideas: Focus on connecting topics such as how lipid structure relates to cardiovascular disease. Discuss high-level questions that challenge your understanding. Prioritize high-weight topics like membranes, enzymes, and genetics. Past-Paper Practice: Work through past papers from 2019 to 2025 under timed conditions. Mark your papers using the official mark scheme to identify areas for improvement. Independent practice should include revisiting past papers and reflecting on mistakes to understand why marks were lost. This method aligns with findings that consistent practice improves exam performance ( Chem-Bio.info ). 4. Phase 1 (Weeks 1–2): Locking in Core Content Goal Ensure no significant content gaps exist and understand the relevance of each topic. Syllabus-Aligned Notes Use the Chem-Bio.info syllabus breakdown to structure your notes: Include key definitions and diagrams. Outline core processes like enzyme action and the cardiac cycle. Incorporate data-based ideas relevant to risk factors and cardiovascular disease. Linking Ideas Class In this class, emphasize how different topics interrelate: Link lipid structure to atheroma formation. Connect membrane proteins to transport mechanisms. Relate DNA structure to genetic risk factors. This holistic approach aids in answering application questions effectively. 5. Phase 2 (Weeks 3–4): Intensive Past-Paper Practice Selecting Papers Choose past papers from 2019 to 2025 to ensure alignment with the current specification. Start with earlier papers to build confidence and transition to more recent papers as the exam approaches. Using Past Papers Effectively Follow this workflow for each paper: Timed Attempt : Complete the paper in 1 hour and 30 minutes. Marking : Use the official mark scheme to identify key phrases and patterns. Rewrite Answers : Focus on questions where marks were lost, using mark scheme language in your own words. Mistake Log : Document errors to create a target list for further study. This method helps develop "examiner-style thinking" ( Chem-Bio.info ). 6. Exam Technique: What Unit 1 Tests Unit 1 frequently assesses: Data Analysis : Questions on enzyme rates and cardiovascular risk factors. Longer Explanation Questions : For example, explaining haemoglobin structure and function. Application to New Scenarios : Adapting known biology to unfamiliar situations. Recognizing these patterns is crucial for success ( Pearson Edexcel IAL Biology Specification ). 7. Final Phase: Mock Tests and Focused Practice In the final weeks, sit full mock exams under real conditions. Aim for 2-3 mocks in the last two weeks and analyse your performance to identify timing issues and recurring mistakes. Focus Areas In the last week, concentrate on closing specific gaps identified in your mistake log. This targeted approach is more effective than trying to relearn the entire syllabus ( Chem-Bio.info ). 8. Conclusion: Your Revision Roadmap By following this structured revision plan, you can maximize your chances of success in the Unit 1 IAL Biology exam. Focus on linking concepts, practicing past papers, and refining your exam techniques. 9. Recommended Resources Chem-Bio.info – IAL Biology Unit 1 Specification & Notes: Comprehensive breakdown of topics ( Chem-Bio.info ). Chem-Bio.info – YouTube Video : Essential insights for effective revision ( Chem-Bio.info ). Pearson Edexcel IAL Biology Specification : Official content and assessment details ( Pearson ). Additional Resources : Consider platforms like Save My Exams for supplementary materials, but prioritise Chem-Bio.info and official specs.
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