Grade 10 Physical Sciences Chemistry — Eastern Cape practice
Notes
Answer every question. Show the formula, the substitution, and the answer with units. Calculators allowed. These are original practice papers in the style of the province, not a copy of a department PDF.
90 min · 84 Marks · 30 questions
Learn the paper in the app: notes, a marks breakdown, the formula you need, and the board working. You do not need to download it.
A learner in Gqeberha dissolves salt in water until it looks clear. The salt water is a
Notes: A learner in Gqeberha dissolves salt in water until it looks clear. The salt water is a
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: A learner in Gqeberha dissolves salt in water until it looks clear. The salt water is a
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: The salt water is a. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: The salt water is a. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get The salt water is a.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture.
2. What do we already know?
A learner in Gqeberha dissolves salt in water until it looks clear. The salt water is a
3. Which method — and why this one?
One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: The salt water is a. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: The salt water is a. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get The salt water is a.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
A learner in Gqeberha dissolves salt in water until it looks clear. The salt water is a
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
homogeneous mixture
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
homogeneous mixture
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: homogeneous mixture
6. Check it like a marker
One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
compound
1.2 · 4 Marks
Sodium-27. Z = 11. Neutrons?
Notes: Sodium-27. Z = 11. Neutrons?
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Sodium-27. Z = 11. Neutrons?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 27 · 11. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Neutrons. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Neutrons. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: N = A − Z = 27 − 11 = 16. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Neutrons.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
N=A−Z=27−11=16.
2. What do we already know?
Sodium-27. Z = 11. Neutrons?
3. Which method — and why this one?
N=A−Z=27−11=16.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 27 · 11. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Neutrons. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Neutrons. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: N = A − Z = 27 − 11 = 16. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Neutrons.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Sodium-27. Z = 11. Neutrons?
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
N=A−Z=27−11=16.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
N=A−Z=27−11=16.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
16
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
16
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 16
6. Check it like a marker
N=A−Z=27−11=16.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
11
1.3 · 6 Marks
Mass of 0.6 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
Notes: Mass of 0.6 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Mass of 0.6 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 0.6 mol · 44 g·mol⁻¹. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: M = 44 g·mol⁻¹. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: M = 44 g·mol⁻¹. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: m = nM = 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
m=nM=0.6×44=26.4 g.
2. What do we already know?
Mass of 0.6 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
3. Which method — and why this one?
m=nM=0.6×44=26.4 g.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 0.6 mol · 44 g·mol⁻¹. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: M = 44 g·mol⁻¹. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: M = 44 g·mol⁻¹. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: m = nM = 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Mass of 0.6 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
m=nM=0.6×44=26.4 g.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
m=nM=0.6×44=26.4 g.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
26.4 g
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
26.4 g
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 26.4 g
6. Check it like a marker
m=nM=0.6×44=26.4 g.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
52.8 g
2.1 · 6 Marks
The balanced equation for iron burning in oxygen to form Fe₂O₃ is
Notes: The balanced equation for iron burning in oxygen to form Fe₂O₃ is
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: The balanced equation for iron burning in oxygen to form Fe₂O₃ is
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
Oxygen LCM is 6, so 3 O₂ and 2 Fe₂O₃, then 4 Fe.
2. What do we already know?
The balanced equation for iron burning in oxygen to form Fe₂O₃ is
3. Which method — and why this one?
Oxygen LCM is 6, so 3 O₂ and 2 Fe₂O₃, then 4 Fe.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 07
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 07
Step B — Write the given in a column
The balanced equation for iron burning in oxygen to form Fe₂O₃ is
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
03 / 07
Step C — Name the method in words
Oxygen LCM is 6, so 3 O₂ and 2 Fe₂O₃, then 4 Fe.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
04 / 07
Working
Oxygen LCM is 6, so 3 O₂ and 2 Fe₂O₃, then 4 Fe.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
05 / 07
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
06 / 07
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
4 Fe + 3 O₂ → 2 Fe₂O₃
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
07 / 07
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
4 Fe + 3 O₂ → 2 Fe₂O₃
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 4 Fe + 3 O₂ → 2 Fe₂O₃
6. Check it like a marker
Oxygen LCM is 6, so 3 O₂ and 2 Fe₂O₃, then 4 Fe.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
Fe + O₂ → Fe₂O₃
2.2 · 6 Marks
Potassium reacts faster with water than sodium because
Notes: Potassium reacts faster with water than sodium because
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Potassium reacts faster with water than sodium because
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
Same group. K has one more shell, so the outer electron is held less tightly.
2. What do we already know?
Potassium reacts faster with water than sodium because
3. Which method — and why this one?
Same group. K has one more shell, so the outer electron is held less tightly.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 07
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 07
Step B — Write the given in a column
Potassium reacts faster with water than sodium because
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
03 / 07
Step C — Name the method in words
Same group. K has one more shell, so the outer electron is held less tightly.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
04 / 07
Working
Same group. K has one more shell, so the outer electron is held less tightly.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
05 / 07
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
06 / 07
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
the outer electron is further from the nucleus
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
07 / 07
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
the outer electron is further from the nucleus
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: the outer electron is further from the nucleus
6. Check it like a marker
Same group. K has one more shell, so the outer electron is held less tightly.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
potassium has fewer protons
3.1 · 8 Marks · The atom
A neutral chlorine atom has 17 protons. Electrons?
The atom
Formulas
A=Z+N
Mass number = protons + neutrons
Notes: A neutral chlorine atom has 17 protons. Electrons?
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: A neutral chlorine atom has 17 protons. Electrons?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 17 protons. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Electrons. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Electrons. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: Neutral means electrons equal protons. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Electrons.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
Neutral means electrons equal protons.
2. What do we already know?
A neutral chlorine atom has 17 protons. Electrons?
3. Which method — and why this one?
Neutral means electrons equal protons.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 17 protons. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Electrons. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Electrons. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: Neutral means electrons equal protons. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Electrons.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
A neutral chlorine atom has 17 protons. Electrons?
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
Neutral means electrons equal protons.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
Neutral means electrons equal protons.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
17
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
17
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 17
6. Check it like a marker
Neutral means electrons equal protons.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
18
7 · 2 Marks
A learner in Mbombela dissolves salt in water until it looks clear. The salt water is a
Notes: A learner in Mbombela dissolves salt in water until it looks clear. The salt water is a
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: A learner in Mbombela dissolves salt in water until it looks clear. The salt water is a
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: The salt water is a. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: The salt water is a. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get The salt water is a.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture.
2. What do we already know?
A learner in Mbombela dissolves salt in water until it looks clear. The salt water is a
3. Which method — and why this one?
One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: The salt water is a. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: The salt water is a. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get The salt water is a.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
A learner in Mbombela dissolves salt in water until it looks clear. The salt water is a
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
homogeneous mixture
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
homogeneous mixture
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: homogeneous mixture
6. Check it like a marker
One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
compound
8 · 3 Marks
Balanced form of Fe + O₂ → Fe₂O₃ is
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Balanced form of Fe + O₂ → Fe₂O₃ is
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Balanced form of Fe + O₂ → Fe₂O₃ is. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Balanced form of Fe + O₂ → Fe₂O₃ is. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: LCM of oxygen is 6: 3 O₂ and 2 Fe₂O₃, then 4 Fe. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Balanced form of Fe + O₂ → Fe₂O₃ is.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
LCM of oxygen is 6: 3 O₂ and 2 Fe₂O₃, then 4 Fe.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
LCM of oxygen is 6: 3 O₂ and 2 Fe₂O₃, then 4 Fe.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Balanced form of Fe + O₂ → Fe₂O₃ is. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Balanced form of Fe + O₂ → Fe₂O₃ is. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: LCM of oxygen is 6: 3 O₂ and 2 Fe₂O₃, then 4 Fe. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Balanced form of Fe + O₂ → Fe₂O₃ is.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
LCM of oxygen is 6: 3 O₂ and 2 Fe₂O₃, then 4 Fe.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
LCM of oxygen is 6: 3 O₂ and 2 Fe₂O₃, then 4 Fe.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
4 Fe + 3 O₂ → 2 Fe₂O₃
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
4 Fe + 3 O₂ → 2 Fe₂O₃
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 4 Fe + 3 O₂ → 2 Fe₂O₃
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
9 · 2 Marks
Carbon-14. Protons? Z(C) = 6
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Carbon-14. Protons? Z(C) = 6
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 14 · 6. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Z(C) = 6. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Z(C) = 6. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 6. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Z(C) = 6.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
6
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 14 · 6. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
6
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 14 · 6. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Z(C) = 6. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Z(C) = 6. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: 6. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Z(C) = 6.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 14 · 6. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
6
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Reason
Isotopes share Z. Neutrons = 14 − 6 = 8.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
6
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
6
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 6
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
10 · 2 Marks · The mole
Iron rusting is a
The mole
Formulas
n=mM
Amount in moles
n=V22.4(STP, gas in dm³)
Molar volume at STP
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Iron rusting is a
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Iron rusting is a. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Iron rusting is a. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: chemical change. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Iron rusting is a.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
chemical change
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
chemical change
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Iron rusting is a. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Iron rusting is a. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: chemical change. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Iron rusting is a.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
chemical change
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Reason
A new substance, iron oxide, forms.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
chemical change
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
chemical change
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: chemical change
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
11 · 2 Marks
Sodium (2, 8, 1) is in period
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Sodium (2, 8, 1) is in period
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 2 · 8 · 1. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Sodium (2, 8, 1) is in period. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Sodium (2, 8, 1) is in period. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 3. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Sodium (2, 8, 1) is in period.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
3
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 2 · 8 · 1. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
3
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 2 · 8 · 1. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Sodium (2, 8, 1) is in period. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Sodium (2, 8, 1) is in period. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: 3. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Sodium (2, 8, 1) is in period.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 2 · 8 · 1. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
3
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Reason
The period number equals the number of shells.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
3
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
3
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 3
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
12 · 2 Marks
A learner in Durban dissolves salt in water until it looks clear. The salt water is a
Notes: A learner in Durban dissolves salt in water until it looks clear. The salt water is a
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: A learner in Durban dissolves salt in water until it looks clear. The salt water is a
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: The salt water is a. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: The salt water is a. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get The salt water is a.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture.
2. What do we already know?
A learner in Durban dissolves salt in water until it looks clear. The salt water is a
3. Which method — and why this one?
One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: The salt water is a. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: The salt water is a. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get The salt water is a.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
A learner in Durban dissolves salt in water until it looks clear. The salt water is a
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
homogeneous mixture
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
homogeneous mixture
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: homogeneous mixture
6. Check it like a marker
One phase, salt dissolved: a solution is a homogeneous mixture.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
compound
13 · 2 Marks
Sodium-24. Z = 11. Neutrons?
Notes: Sodium-24. Z = 11. Neutrons?
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Sodium-24. Z = 11. Neutrons?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 24 · 11. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Neutrons. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Neutrons. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: N = A − Z = 24 − 11 = 13. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Neutrons.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
N=A−Z=24−11=13.
2. What do we already know?
Sodium-24. Z = 11. Neutrons?
3. Which method — and why this one?
N=A−Z=24−11=13.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 24 · 11. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Neutrons. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Neutrons. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: N = A − Z = 24 − 11 = 13. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Neutrons.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Sodium-24. Z = 11. Neutrons?
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
N=A−Z=24−11=13.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
N=A−Z=24−11=13.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
13
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
13
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 13
6. Check it like a marker
N=A−Z=24−11=13.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
11
14 · 2 Marks
Balance: K + H₂O → KOH + H₂
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Balance: K + H₂O → KOH + H₂
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Balance: K + H₂O → KOH + H₂. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Balance: K + H₂O → KOH + H₂. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 2 K + 2 H₂O. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Balance: K + H₂O → KOH + H₂.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
2 K + 2 H₂O → 2 KOH + H₂
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
2 K + 2 H₂O → 2 KOH + H₂
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Balance: K + H₂O → KOH + H₂. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Balance: K + H₂O → KOH + H₂. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: 2 K + 2 H₂O. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Balance: K + H₂O → KOH + H₂.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
2 K + 2 H₂O → 2 KOH + H₂
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Reason
Hydrogen must pair up on the product side.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
2 K + 2 H₂O → 2 KOH + H₂
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
2 K + 2 H₂O → 2 KOH + H₂
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 2 K + 2 H₂O → 2 KOH + H₂
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
15 · 2 Marks
Mass of 0.2 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
Notes: Mass of 0.2 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Mass of 0.2 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 0.2 mol · 44 g·mol⁻¹. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: M = 44 g·mol⁻¹. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: M = 44 g·mol⁻¹. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: m = nM = 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
m=nM=0.2×44=8.8 g.
2. What do we already know?
Mass of 0.2 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
3. Which method — and why this one?
m=nM=0.2×44=8.8 g.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 0.2 mol · 44 g·mol⁻¹. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: M = 44 g·mol⁻¹. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: M = 44 g·mol⁻¹. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: m = nM = 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Mass of 0.2 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
m=nM=0.2×44=8.8 g.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
m=nM=0.2×44=8.8 g.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
8.8 g
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
8.8 g
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 8.8 g
6. Check it like a marker
m=nM=0.2×44=8.8 g.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
17.6 g
16 · 2 Marks
Cl-37. Neutrons? Z(Cl)=17
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Cl-37. Neutrons? Z(Cl)=17
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 37 · 17. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Z(Cl)=17. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Z(Cl)=17. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 20. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Z(Cl)=17.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
20
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 37 · 17. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
20
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 37 · 17. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Z(Cl)=17. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Z(Cl)=17. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: 20. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Z(Cl)=17.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 37 · 17. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
20
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Reason
N=A−Z=37−17=20.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
20
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
20
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 20
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
17 · 3 Marks
Potassium is more reactive than sodium because
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Potassium is more reactive than sodium because
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
extra shell
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
extra shell
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 07
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 07
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
03 / 07
Step C — Name the method in words
extra shell
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
04 / 07
Reason
Same group, extra period. Weaker hold on the outer electron.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
05 / 07
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
06 / 07
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
it has an extra shell so the outer electron is lost more easily
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
07 / 07
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
it has an extra shell so the outer electron is lost more easily
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: it has an extra shell so the outer electron is lost more easily
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
18 · 2 Marks
Valence electrons of chlorine (2, 8, 7)
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Valence electrons of chlorine (2, 8, 7)
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 2 · 8 · 7. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Valence electrons of chlorine (2, 8, 7). Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Valence electrons of chlorine (2, 8, 7). Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 7. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Valence electrons of chlorine (2, 8, 7).
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
7
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 2 · 8 · 7. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
7
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 2 · 8 · 7. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Valence electrons of chlorine (2, 8, 7). Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Valence electrons of chlorine (2, 8, 7). Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: 7. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Valence electrons of chlorine (2, 8, 7).
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 2 · 8 · 7. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
7
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Reason
The last number is the valence shell.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
7
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
7
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 7
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
19 · 2 Marks · The atom
The atomic number Z is the number of
The atom
Formulas
A=Z+N
Mass number = protons + neutrons
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: The atomic number Z is the number of
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: The atomic number Z is the number of. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: The atomic number Z is the number of. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: Z = protons. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get The atomic number Z is the number of.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
Z = protons. In a neutral atom it also equals electrons.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
Z = protons. In a neutral atom it also equals electrons.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: The atomic number Z is the number of. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: The atomic number Z is the number of. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: Z = protons. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get The atomic number Z is the number of.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
Z = protons. In a neutral atom it also equals electrons.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
Z = protons. In a neutral atom it also equals electrons.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
protons
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
protons
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: protons
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
20 · 2 Marks
Sodium-23. Z = 11. Neutrons?
Notes: Sodium-23. Z = 11. Neutrons?
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Sodium-23. Z = 11. Neutrons?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 23 · 11. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Neutrons. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Neutrons. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: N = A − Z = 23 − 11 = 12. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Neutrons.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
N=A−Z=23−11=12.
2. What do we already know?
Sodium-23. Z = 11. Neutrons?
3. Which method — and why this one?
N=A−Z=23−11=12.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 23 · 11. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Neutrons. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Neutrons. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: N = A − Z = 23 − 11 = 12. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Neutrons.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Sodium-23. Z = 11. Neutrons?
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
N=A−Z=23−11=12.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
N=A−Z=23−11=12.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
12
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
12
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 12
6. Check it like a marker
N=A−Z=23−11=12.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
11
21 · 2 Marks · Periodic table
Table salt is a
Formulas
group 1→alkali metalsgroup 7→halogensgroup 8→noble gases
Named groups
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Table salt is a
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Table salt is a. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Table salt is a. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: compound. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Table salt is a.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
compound
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
compound
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Table salt is a. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Table salt is a. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: compound. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Table salt is a.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
compound
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Reason
NaCl has a fixed formula. Two elements chemically bonded.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
compound
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
compound
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: compound
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
22 · 2 Marks
In the kinetic model, gas particles are
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: In the kinetic model, gas particles are
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: In the kinetic model, gas particles are. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: In the kinetic model, gas particles are. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: far apart and moving randomly. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get In the kinetic model, gas particles are.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
far apart and moving randomly
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
far apart and moving randomly
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: In the kinetic model, gas particles are. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: In the kinetic model, gas particles are. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: far apart and moving randomly. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get In the kinetic model, gas particles are.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
far apart and moving randomly
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Reason
Large empty space explains why gases compress.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
far apart and moving randomly
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
far apart and moving randomly
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: far apart and moving randomly
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
23 · 2 Marks
Mass of 0.7 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
Notes: Mass of 0.7 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Mass of 0.7 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 0.7 mol · 44 g·mol⁻¹. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: M = 44 g·mol⁻¹. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: M = 44 g·mol⁻¹. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: m = nM = 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
m=nM=0.7×44=30.8 g.
2. What do we already know?
Mass of 0.7 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
3. Which method — and why this one?
m=nM=0.7×44=30.8 g.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 0.7 mol · 44 g·mol⁻¹. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: M = 44 g·mol⁻¹. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: M = 44 g·mol⁻¹. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: m = nM = 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Mass of 0.7 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
m=nM=0.7×44=30.8 g.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
m=nM=0.7×44=30.8 g.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
30.8 g
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
30.8 g
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 30.8 g
6. Check it like a marker
m=nM=0.7×44=30.8 g.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
61.6 g
24 · 2 Marks
Mass of 0.3 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
Notes: Mass of 0.3 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Mass of 0.3 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 0.3 mol · 44 g·mol⁻¹. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: M = 44 g·mol⁻¹. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: M = 44 g·mol⁻¹. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: m = nM = 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
m=nM=0.3×44=13.2 g.
2. What do we already know?
Mass of 0.3 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
3. Which method — and why this one?
m=nM=0.3×44=13.2 g.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 0.3 mol · 44 g·mol⁻¹. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: M = 44 g·mol⁻¹. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: M = 44 g·mol⁻¹. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: m = nM = 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Mass of 0.3 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
m=nM=0.3×44=13.2 g.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
m=nM=0.3×44=13.2 g.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
13.2 g
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
13.2 g
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 13.2 g
6. Check it like a marker
m=nM=0.3×44=13.2 g.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
26.4 g
25 · 2 Marks · The mole
Ice melting is a
The mole
Formulas
n=mM
Amount in moles
n=V22.4(STP, gas in dm³)
Molar volume at STP
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Ice melting is a
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Ice melting is a. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Ice melting is a. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: physical change. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Ice melting is a.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
physical change
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
physical change
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Ice melting is a. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Ice melting is a. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: physical change. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Ice melting is a.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
physical change
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Reason
H₂O stays H₂O. Only the state changes.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
physical change
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
physical change
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: physical change
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
26 · 2 Marks
Mass of 0.4 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
Notes: Mass of 0.4 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Mass of 0.4 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 0.4 mol · 44 g·mol⁻¹. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: M = 44 g·mol⁻¹. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: M = 44 g·mol⁻¹. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: m = nM = 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
m=nM=0.4×44=17.6 g.
2. What do we already know?
Mass of 0.4 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
3. Which method — and why this one?
m=nM=0.4×44=17.6 g.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 0.4 mol · 44 g·mol⁻¹. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: M = 44 g·mol⁻¹. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: M = 44 g·mol⁻¹. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: m = nM = 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Mass of 0.4 mol of CO₂. M = 44 g·mol⁻¹.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
m=nM=0.4×44=17.6 g.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
m=nM=0.4×44=17.6 g.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
17.6 g
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
17.6 g
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 17.6 g
6. Check it like a marker
m=nM=0.4×44=17.6 g.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
35.2 g
27 · 2 Marks · The mole
A balanced chemical equation shows that
The mole
Formulas
n=mM
Amount in moles
n=V22.4(STP, gas in dm³)
Molar volume at STP
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: A balanced chemical equation shows that
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: A balanced chemical equation shows that. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: A balanced chemical equation shows that. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: atoms are conserved. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get A balanced chemical equation shows that.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
atoms are conserved
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
atoms are conserved
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: A balanced chemical equation shows that. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: A balanced chemical equation shows that. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: atoms are conserved. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get A balanced chemical equation shows that.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
atoms are conserved
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Reason
Count each element on both sides before you stop.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
atoms are conserved
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
atoms are conserved
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: atoms are conserved
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
28 · 2 Marks
12 g of C reacts with 32 g of O₂. Mass of CO₂?
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: 12 g of C reacts with 32 g of O₂. Mass of CO₂?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 12 g · 32 g. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Mass of CO₂. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Mass of CO₂. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 44 g. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Mass of CO₂.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
44 g
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 12 g · 32 g. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
44 g
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 12 g · 32 g. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Mass of CO₂. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Mass of CO₂. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: 44 g. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Mass of CO₂.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 12 g · 32 g. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
44 g
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Reason
Mass is conserved: 12 + 32 = 44 g.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
44 g
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
44 g
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 44 g
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
29 · 2 Marks
Salt dissolved in water is a
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Salt dissolved in water is a
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Salt dissolved in water is a. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Salt dissolved in water is a. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: homogeneous mixture. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Salt dissolved in water is a.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
homogeneous mixture
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
homogeneous mixture
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Salt dissolved in water is a. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Salt dissolved in water is a. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: homogeneous mixture. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Salt dissolved in water is a.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
homogeneous mixture
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Reason
One phase. The salt is spread evenly.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
homogeneous mixture
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
homogeneous mixture
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: homogeneous mixture
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
30 · 2 Marks
Raising the temperature of a gas increases the
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Raising the temperature of a gas increases the
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
average kinetic energy
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
average kinetic energy
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 07
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 07
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
03 / 07
Step C — Name the method in words
average kinetic energy
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
04 / 07
Reason
Temperature is a measure of average kinetic energy.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
05 / 07
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
06 / 07
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
average kinetic energy of the particles
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
07 / 07
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
average kinetic energy of the particles
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: average kinetic energy of the particles
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”