Preparing for your chemistry class is a lot like preparing for a sport. You must have discipline, you must develop certain skills and you must practice, practice, practice. No athlete would dream of competing without mastering the skills required for their sport. Likewise, no chemistry student should expect to pass chemistry if they haven't mastered the required skills and put in the time for practice.
Chemistry requires certain skills, you must learn these skills, practice them and find your mistakes. When you find a weak area you must develop a way to strengthen that area. You must be aware of your mistakes, correct them and learn from them. So, here are the three most common mistakes made by chemistry students. Learn to avoid them.
Mistake #1 - Don't learn any algebra skills.
Although there are many conceptual ideas in chemistry, if you plan to master chemistry you must have a working knowledge of simple algebra, scientific notation and significant figures . You should be able to write and manipulate the variables in formulas and equations. You should be able to write equations from simple word problems, balance those equations and write your answers in scientific notation.
Avoid this mistake by taking a refresher course in algebra or purchase a book on simple algebra.
Mistake #2 - Don't learn the Periodic table.
The periodic table is one of the greatest scientific tools ever discovered. It contains a wealth of information about each and everyone of the elements. For each element you can find the:
- atomic number
- atomic mass
- energy levels
- electron arrangements
- valence electrons
and so much more. It is a must to how to use the periodic table. You don't have to memorize it, but the more you know about the more time you save.
Avoid this mistake buy getting a tutor or book that will explain the mysteries of the periodic table.
Mistake #3 - Don't learn the metric system.
This is one of the biggest mistakes chemistry students make when learning chemistry and physics. Just because you might be used to the English system of units doesn't mean you can ignore the metric system. Although the official measuring system is the SI units, this system is based on the metric system. Therefore, you need to know what metric amounts look like and how to use and manipulate them.
Avoid this mistake by getting a handout, a book or tutor that can help you practice measuring and converting in metrics.
It is up to you to take action and avoid these common mistakes. But even if you are aware of these mistakes not much will change if you don't practice. I invite you to learn more at Mr Causey's World or go to http://yourCHEMcoach.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darrell_Causey |
No comments:
Post a Comment