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Comparison of Syllabus tested in O-Level and A-Level
Comparison of Syllabus tested in O-Level and A-Level
H2 Syllabus examined in 2027
H2 syllabus (2027).pdfH1 Syllabus examined in 2027
H1 syllabus (2027).pdfFrequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between O-Level Pure Physics and H2 Physics?
You may refer to the table above which compares topics between O-Level Pure Physics and A‑Level H2 Physics.
Many of the topics you learnt in the O-Level Physics are linked to the A-Level H2 Physics syllabus.
However, even if the topics are similar, the scope and depth at the A levels is greater. Problems will introduce novel contexts and require you to use principles across different topics to solve the question. There is also an increased emphasis on explaining the answers using physics terms and principles.
Q: What is the difference between H1 and H2 Physics?
H1 Physics covers about half as much content as H2 Physics (refer to the table above).
In addition, H1 Physics also does not have a laboratory practical component. In other words, H1 Physics Students are not required to take a Practical Examination at the A Levels.
Apart from the reduction in the amount of topics covered, the problems encountered in H1 Physics are not any less complex. However, H1 Physics questions often do not require as much mathematical calculation as H2 Physics questions, but instead require a greater degree of explanation and evaluation.
Q: If I studied Combined Science Physics at Secondary School, will I be able to cope with H2 Physics?
Whilst there are some topics in Pure Physics that is not covered in Combined Science Physics, the content will be manageable, if students put in their due diligence to bridge content gaps, coupled with consultations with your tutor when necessary to clarify doubts.
For the record, many students with Combined Science background have achieved academic success in the subject.
Q: Should I study Physics? What courses in University require Physics as a pre-requisite?
Physics is a scientific endeavor of research and problem solving. In research, we study the natural world, develop theories, and test them in the laboratory. This leads to evaluating data and reporting our conclusions. In problem solving, we employ principles to solve problems, explain phenomena and makes prediction based on real life situations.
The studying of A-Level Physics helps you develop useful scientific models of real‑world phenomena and develop problem solving skills in the learning of the subject. These are important skills needed for today’s fast changing world.
Physics is not a pre-requisite to a lot of courses in university. Even many of engineering courses do not require Physics at the A-Levels as a pre-requisite, however, the concepts studied in A-Level Physics will greatly aid in many of the studies in Engineering. If you are considering Engineering as a possible choice in university, the studying of Physics will certainly be helpful.
It is important that you do your research and ensure that your selected subject combination meets entry requirements of your desired courses since they change year on year.
Another key consideration of whether to study physics will be your strengths and interests in the subject. If you have been coping well in the subject in O levels and you have an interest in the subject, you should consider that as one of your A level subjects. Do speak to a physics teacher if you require more advise or guidance in this area.
Q: How does one excel in Physics?
To excel in physics, learning must be deliberate, active, and reflective.
Start by reading ahead of the lecture so lessons reinforce understanding rather than introduce everything from scratch. During lessons and tutorials, engage actively through preparation and participation, asking questions and testing your thinking. After class, consolidate content and applications by practising problems and linking concepts to real situations.
Good physics also depends on communication. Practise clear and effective writing, especially explanations, diagrams, and logical working. Use technology wisely — an effective use of AI can help clarify misconceptions, generate practice questions, or check reasoning (not replace thinking).
When stuck, consult tutors or teachers early instead of letting gaps grow. Build exam readiness with timed practice under exam conditions to develop speed, accuracy, and confidence. Finally, continuously reflect on your study techniques, identifying what works, what doesn’t, and adjusting your approach.
In short: prepare early, practise deeply, communicate clearly, seek help wisely, train under realistic conditions, and constantly refine how you learn.
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