If you're a parent of a Primary School student in Singapore, you've probably noticed that the PSLE Science exam isn't what it used to be. Since the MOE revised the Primary Science syllabus in 2025, the focus has shifted away from memorisation and towards application-based questions that test a student's ability to think, explain and apply scientific concepts in real-life situations.
To truly excel in PSLE Science today, students need more than just a good memory. They need strong conceptual understanding, problem-solving skills and the ability to answer questions using precise and topic-specific vocabulary.
Why Memorisation Alone No Longer Works in PSLE Science
Under the updated syllabus, factual-recall questions carry less weight than higher-order thinking and application questions. A student who memorises definitions and notes might still pass, but achieving AL1 or AL2 requires demonstrating the ability to analyse, explain and apply knowledge to new and unfamiliar scenarios.
For instance, a simple recall question might ask for the definition of photosynthesis. But an application question could present a graph of plant growth under different light conditions and ask students to explain the trend using scientific concepts. This shift in emphasis means students need to be equipped with both content mastery and answering strategies.
What's Stopping Students From Scoring That AL1 / AL2?
Here are 3 key factors that hold many students back in PSLE Science:
Students need to fully grasp basic science concepts before they can apply them. Gaps in understanding make it hard to tackle higher-order questions.
It's not enough to know the right answer. Students must also learn how to structure their responses clearly and accurately based on the question type.
Many students lose marks by making the same avoidable errors in the open-ended Section B.
Top 5 Mistakes in PSLE Science Open-Ended Questions
1. Skimming Through Questions Too Quickly
Science exam questions can be long and detailed. Rushing through often leads to missed keywords or important clues.
2. Giving Vague and General Answers
In Science, precision matters. Answers need to be specific, supported by correct keywords and directly related to the question asked.
3. Ignoring Graphs, Tables or Diagrams
Visuals are provided for a reason, they contain vital information. Students who overlook them miss out on easy marks.
4. Freezing Up When Faced with Unfamiliar Questions
Not every question will look familiar. Students must learn question-specific strategies, like how to handle 'explain', 'relationship' or 'compare' type questions, to stay calm and tackle them effectively.
5. Using Incorrect Scientific Vocabulary
Everyday words won't cut it in Science exams. For example, saying 'make food' instead of 'photosynthesis' can cost valuable marks. Students must master Science keywords through regular practice.
How Bamboo Path Academy Supports Your Child
At Bamboo Path Academy, we understand the demands of the new PSLE Science syllabus. That's why we focus on building both content mastery and answering techniques. Our proven Science programmes:
✅ Strengthen foundational concepts
✅ Equip students with structured answering strategies
✅ Train students to avoid common open-ended mistakes
✅ Provide guided practice on interpreting graphs, diagrams and data-based questions
✅ Help students master Science keywords and key phrases
By focusing on understanding, application and exam-smart strategies, we help students approach the PSLE Science paper with confidence, giving them the tools they need to aim higher.
Ready to Help Your Child Excel in PSLE Science?
Let's work together to help your child grow, think critically and thrive in Science.
Book a Complimentary 1-on-1 Diagnostic Assessment with our expert teachers today and find out where your child stands.
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Happy Learning!
