Realising Organic Chemistry as a challenging field that often confuses students, Focus Chemistry teaches Organic Chemistry using unique approaches to help students better understand the concepts, apply their knowledge and visualise 3-D structures of molecules.
Helping students get the picture
Organic Chemistry is content-heavy. Other than the many chemical reactions to remember and apply, students also need to understand the physical properties of organic compounds and molecular structures . This may pose as a stumbling block to students. Without visual representation, students will have a hard time comprehending content, as they cannot see how different molecules look like. At Focus Chemistry tutors incorporate hands-on activities and guide students through the building of molecular models. Students have the opportunity to make observations as they assemble 3-D models of the molecules.
For example, the difference in boiling points of linear and branched alkanes can be easily explained using molecular models for O level chemistry tuition. For JC and IB chemistry tuition, 3-D modelling enables better visualisation of molecular geometries and bond angles. Students will also easily understand the superimposability of molecules that are mirror images, and deduce their optical activities.
Linking the reactions. Revision is a must
Our experienced tutors help student link the various classes of compounds through pattern recognition, such as the oxidation of primary alcohols using different reagents. The use of 3-D models also helps demonstrate the formation of esters from alcohols and acids.
Despite the approaches used, some components of Organic Chemistry must be memorised. These include the reaction conditions. Students have no choice but to commit these details to memory. Tutors will use questioning techniques and conduct quizzes to aid knowledge retention gauge students’ progress. This is also a good way of ensuring that everyone in the same class is up to speed.