Science: Reasoning with Physical and Life Science Concepts
The Science section emphasizes conceptual understanding and data interpretation rather than memorized trivia. Expect questions on cells and basic biology (organelles, photosynthesis vs. respiration), matter and chemistry (states of matter, atomic structure, acids/bases, conservation of mass), forces and motion (Newton's laws, speed/acceleration), energy (forms, transfer, conservation), and earth/space basics (water cycle, seasons). Practice reading tables and graphs: identify the independent and dependent variable, note trends, and distinguish correlation from causation.
Traps to watch
- Confusing mass with weight (mass is constant; weight depends on gravity).
- Assuming photosynthesis and respiration are opposites in every way - both involve energy conversion, and respiration occurs in plants too.
- Ignoring control variables when interpreting an experiment.
- Misreading units on a graph axis (per second vs. per minute).
Worked example
An object moves 60 m in 12 s. Speed = distance ÷ time = 60 ÷ 12 = 5 m/s. If it then accelerates, speed changes, but the average speed over the interval is still total distance ÷ total time. Rule of thumb: always state the formula, substitute with units, then compute.