Science Study in HK / 香港中學科學概括

♓Physics Study in HK

High school physics covers a range of fundamental concepts and principles related to the study of matter, energy, and their interactions. Here are some brief areas of study in high school physics:

  1. Mechanics: The study of motion and forces, including topics such as kinematics (describing motion), dynamics (forces and Newton's laws of motion), momentum, and energy.

  2. Waves and Optics: The study of wave properties, including wave behavior, wave types (such as sound and light waves), reflection, refraction, diffraction, and the basic principles of optics.

  3. Thermodynamics: The study of heat, temperature, and energy transfer, including topics such as thermal equilibrium, laws of thermodynamics, heat engines, and heat transfer mechanisms.

  4. Electricity and Magnetism: The study of electric and magnetic phenomena, including electric circuits, electromagnetism, electric fields, magnetic fields, and electromagnetic induction.

  5. Atomic and Nuclear Physics: The study of the structure of atoms, nuclear reactions, radioactivity, and basic principles of nuclear energy.

  6. Kinetic Theory and Gas Laws: The study of the behavior of gases, including the kinetic theory of gases, gas laws (such as Boyle's law and Charles's law), and the ideal gas law.

  7. Light and Optics: The study of the properties of light, including reflection, refraction, lenses, mirrors, and the basic principles of optics.

  8. Waves and Sound: The study of wave properties and sound, including wave behavior, sound waves, the Doppler effect, and the principles of sound production and perception.

  9. Modern Physics: An introduction to concepts in modern physics, including quantum mechanics, special relativity, and the basic principles of particle physics.

  10. Scientific Inquiry and Experimental Skills: The development of scientific inquiry skills, including experimental design, data analysis, and critical thinking in the context of physics experiments and investigations.

These areas of study provide a foundation for further studies in physics and related fields at the college or university level. The specific depth and breadth of each topic may vary based on the curriculum and educational system.

📑List of concepts you should know :

  1. Motion, forces and energy

  2. Thermal Physics

  3. Waves/

  4. Electricity and magnetism

  5. Nuclear physics

  6. Space physics

Physics syllabus reference

IGCSE 2023-25
  • IGCSE is typically a two-year program taken by students around the age of 14-16.

  • The IGCSE Physics curriculum covers fundamental topics in physics, including mechanics, electricity, magnetism, waves, and energy.

  • The emphasis is on building a strong foundation of physics principles and concepts through theoretical knowledge and practical applications.

  • IGCSE Physics often includes hands-on experiments and practical work to develop experimental skills and understanding of scientific methods.

  • Assessment is based on written examinations, including multiple-choice questions, structured questions, and practical assessments.

👇Available for Download via https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-igcse-physics-0625/

International Baccalaurate (IB)
  • The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) offers physics as a Higher Level (HL) or Standard Level (SL) subject.

  • IB Physics is a two-year program typically taken by students around the age of 16-19.

  • The IB Physics curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including mechanics, thermal physics, waves, electricity, magnetism, atomic and nuclear physics, and more.

  • The focus is on developing a deep understanding of physics concepts, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

  • IB Physics includes a significant amount of practical work, and students are required to complete a series of mandatory laboratory experiments.

  • Assessment includes internal assessments (laboratory work and research projects) and external examinations, including multiple-choice questions, data-based questions, and extended response questions.

👇Available for Download via https://www.ibo.org/university-admission/latest-curriculum-updates/physics-updates/

Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)
  • The Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) is a local qualification offered in Hong Kong to students around the age of 16-18.

  • HKDSE Physics is a two-year program and is one of the elective subjects in the Science stream.

  • The HKDSE Physics curriculum covers topics such as mechanics, electricity, magnetism, waves, optics, modern physics, and more.

  • The emphasis is on developing a solid understanding of physics principles and their applications.

  • HKDSE Physics includes practical work and experiments to enhance students' scientific skills and understanding.

  • Assessment is based on both school-based assessments (including laboratory work and assignments) and public examinations, including multiple-choice questions, structured questions, and extended response questions.

👇Available for Download via https://www.hkeaa.edu.hk/en/hkdse/hkdse_subj.html?A2&2&20

a close up of a red and blue object
a close up of a red and blue object

Equipment needed in Physics experiment

To study Physics experiments, you will need various chemicals depending on the specific experiments you plan to perform. However, it's important to note that physics experiments typically involve more equipment and materials rather than specific chemicals. Here are some common materials and chemicals used in Physics experiments:

  1. Liquids: Water and various liquids like oil or glycerol may be used in experiments involving density, viscosity, or refraction.

  2. Gases: Air, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide are commonly used in experiments related to gas laws, pressure, and thermal expansion.

  3. Lubricants: Graphite powder or silicone oil may be used in experiments involving friction, lubrication, or motion.

  4. Conductive materials: Copper wires, alligator clips, and connecting wires are used in electrical circuits and experiments related to electricity and magnetism.

  5. Optics materials: Lenses, mirrors, prisms, and diffraction gratings are used in experiments involving light, lenses, and optics.

  6. Thermometers: Mercury or alcohol-filled thermometers are used to measure temperature in thermal experiments.

  7. Resistors: Carbon resistors or variable resistors (potentiometers) are used in electrical circuits and experiments involving resistance and Ohm's law.

  8. Photocells and LEDs: These components are used in experiments related to light intensity, photoelectric effect, and circuitry.

  9. Magnets: Bar magnets, horseshoe magnets, and magnetic compasses are used in experiments involving magnetic fields and electromagnetism.

  10. Miscellaneous materials: Springs, pendulums, weights, rulers, stopwatches, and protractors are commonly used in various physics experiments.

In addition to these materials, physics experiments often require equipment such as power supplies, voltmeters, ammeters, multimeters, balances, and measuring instruments like rulers and calipers.

It's important to consult your school or teacher for a complete list of required materials, including any specific chemicals, safety precautions, and guidelines before conducting any experiments.


✳️Chemistry Study & Chemical in HK

While there are some differences in the specific content and depth of study between IGCSE, IB, and HKDSE chemistry, they also share several commonalities:

  1. Core Concepts: All three curricula cover fundamental concepts of chemistry, including atomic structure, chemical bonding, periodicity, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, states of matter, acids and bases, and thermodynamics.

  2. Practical Skills: Practical laboratory work is an integral part of chemistry study in all three curricula. Students are expected to develop skills in conducting experiments, making observations, data analysis, and drawing conclusions based on their findings.

  3. Problem Solving: The study of chemistry in IGCSE, IB, and HKDSE emphasizes problem-solving skills. Students learn to apply their understanding of chemical principles to solve numerical problems, interpret data, and analyze experimental results.

  4. Chemical Reactions: All three curricula cover various types of chemical reactions, such as redox reactions, acid-base reactions, and precipitation reactions. Students learn to balance chemical equations, predict reaction products, and understand the underlying principles governing chemical reactions.

  5. Organic Chemistry: Organic chemistry, the study of carbon compounds and their reactions, is an important component in all three curricula. Students learn about functional groups, nomenclature, isomerism, and mechanisms of organic reactions.

  6. Periodic Table: The periodic table and its significance in understanding the properties and trends of elements are covered in all three curricula. Students learn about periodic trends, group reactivity, and the relationship between atomic structure and chemical behavior.

While these commonalities exist, it's important to note that the depth and breadth of coverage, as well as the specific topics, may vary between the curricula. It is advisable to consult the official syllabi or curriculum documents for each qualification to get a detailed understanding of the specific content covered.

📑List of concepts you should know :

  1. States of matter

  2. Atoms, elements and compounds

  3. Stiochiometry

  4. Electrochemistry

  5. Chemical energetics

  6. Chemical reactions

  7. Acids, bases and salts

  8. The Periodic Table

  9. Metals

  10. Chemistry of the environment

  11. Organic chemistry

  12. Experimental techniques and chemical analysis

Various syllabus reference

IGCSE

  • IGCSE Chemistry is a course typically taken by students aged 14 to 16.

  • The syllabus covers fundamental topics such as the structure of matter, chemical reactions, acids and bases, energetics, and organic chemistry.

  • Students learn through theoretical concepts, practical experiments, and investigative skills.

  • The final examination assesses students' knowledge, understanding, and application of chemistry principles.

👇Available for Download via https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-igcse-chemistry-0620/

nternational Baccalaurate (IB)
  • The IB Diploma Programme offers chemistry as a standard level (SL) and higher level (HL) subject.

  • The curriculum covers various topics including atomic structure, periodicity, bonding, energetics, kinetics, equilibrium, acids and bases, organic chemistry, and more.

  • Students are required to conduct practical experiments and develop laboratory skills.

  • Internal assessments include a group 4 project, where students collaborate with students from other science disciplines, and a practical scheme of work.

  • External assessments consist of written examinations that assess theoretical knowledge and problem-solving skills.

👇Available for Download via https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/curriculum/sciences/chemistry/

Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)
  • The HKDSE Chemistry curriculum provides students with a comprehensive understanding of chemical principles and their applications.

  • The syllabus covers topics such as atomic structure, bonding, chemical energetics, kinetics, equilibrium, acids and bases, and organic chemistry.

  • Practical skills and experimental techniques are emphasized.

  • Students are assessed through written examinations that test theoretical knowledge, as well as practical assessments that evaluate laboratory skills.

👇Available for Download via https://www.edb.gov.hk/attachment/en/curriculum-development/kla/science-edu/ref-and-resources/Supplementory_note_for_Chem_20180818_Eng.pdf

clear glass pitcher on white paper
clear glass pitcher on white paper

Chemical needed in Experiment

  1. Acids: Sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, and ethanoic acid (acetic acid) are commonly used in experiments involving acid-base reactions, titrations, and pH testing.

  2. Bases: Sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, and calcium hydroxide are frequently used in experiments related to acid-base reactions and titrations.

  3. Indicators: Phenolphthalein, methyl orange, and universal indicator are examples of indicators used to determine the pH of solutions.

  4. Salts: Common salts like sodium chloride, potassium nitrate, and copper sulfate are used in various experiments, including precipitation reactions and electrolysis.

  5. Metals: Zinc, magnesium, iron, and copper are often used in experiments related to reactivity series, displacement reactions, and corrosion.

  6. Gases: Oxygen, carbon dioxide, hydrogen, and chlorine may be used in experiments involving gas laws, combustion, and redox reactions.

  7. Organic compounds: Ethanol, propanone (acetone), glucose, and ethanoic acid are examples of organic compounds used in experiments like fermentation, combustion, and organic qualitative analysis.

  8. Reducing and oxidizing agents: Hydrogen peroxide, potassium manganate(VII), and sulfur dioxide are commonly used in redox reactions and titrations.

It's important to note that handling chemicals should always be done with caution and following appropriate safety guidelines. Make sure to consult your school or teacher for a complete list of required chemicals and safety precautions before conducting any experiments.

🐒Biology Study in HK

High school biology typically covers a wide range of topics that introduce students to the fundamentals of the biological sciences. Here are some brief areas of study in high school biology:

  1. Cell Biology: The study of cells, their structure, function, and processes, including cell organelles, cell division, and cellular metabolism.

  2. Genetics: The study of inheritance and variation, including Mendelian genetics, DNA structure and replication, gene expression, and genetic disorders.

  3. Evolution: The study of the mechanisms and patterns of biological evolution, including natural selection, adaptation, speciation, and evidence for evolution.

  4. Ecology: The study of the interactions between organisms and their environment, including ecosystems, populations, communities, biodiversity, and ecological relationships.

  5. Human Anatomy and Physiology: The study of the structure and function of the human body, including major organ systems, homeostasis, and basic physiological processes.

  6. Plant Biology: The study of plants, including plant structure, photosynthesis, plant growth and development, and plant reproduction.

  7. Microbiology: The study of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, their structure, function, and importance in various ecosystems and human health.

  8. Biochemistry: The study of the chemical processes and molecules that occur in living organisms, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and enzymes.

  9. Biotechnology: The study of the use of biological systems, organisms, or their components to develop or create technological applications, such as genetic engineering, cloning, and biotechnological processes.

  10. Ethical Considerations in Biology: The exploration of ethical issues related to biology, including topics such as genetic engineering, stem cell research, and human impact on ecosystems.

These areas of study in high school biology provide a foundation for further studies in biology and related fields at the college or university level. The specific depth and breadth of each topic may vary based on the curriculum and educational system.

List of concepts you should know:

  1. Characteristics and classification of living organisms

  2. Organisation of the organism

  3. Movement into and out of cells

  4. Biological molecules

  5. Enzymes

  6. Plant nutrition

  7. Human nutrition

  8. Transport in plants

  9. Transport in animals

  10. Diseases and immunity

  11. Gas exchange in humans

  12. Respiration

  13. Excretion in humans

  14. Coordination and response

  15. Drugs

  16. Reproduction

  17. Inheritance

  18. Variation and selection

  19. Organisms and their environment

  20. Human influences on ecosystems

  21. Biotechnology and genetic modification

    Various syllabus reference

    IGCSE
    • IGCSE is typically a two-year program taken by students around the age of 14-16.

    • The IGCSE Biology curriculum covers fundamental topics in biology, including cell biology, genetics, ecology, human anatomy and physiology, plant biology, and more.

    • The emphasis is on building a strong foundation of biological principles and concepts through theoretical knowledge and practical applications.

    • IGCSE Biology often includes hands-on experiments and practical work to develop experimental skills and understanding of scientific methods.

    • Assessment is based on written examinations, including multiple-choice questions, structured questions, and practical assessments.

    👇Available for Download via https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-igcse-biology-0610/

    International Baccalaurate (IB)
    • The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) offers biology as a Higher Level (HL) or Standard Level (SL) subject.

    • IB Biology is a two-year program typically taken by students around the age of 16-19.

    • The IB Biology curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including cell biology, genetics, ecology, human anatomy and physiology, evolution, and more.

    • The focus is on developing a deep understanding of biology concepts, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

    • IB Biology includes a significant amount of practical work, and students are required to complete a series of mandatory laboratory experiments.

    • Assessment includes internal assessments (laboratory work and research projects) and external examinations, including multiple-choice questions, data-based questions, and extended response questions.

    👇Available for Download via https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/curriculum/sciences/biology/

    Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)
    • The Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) is a local qualification offered in Hong Kong to students around the age of 16-18.

    • HKDSE Biology is a two-year program and is one of the elective subjects in the Science stream.

    • The HKDSE Biology curriculum covers topics such as cell biology, genetics, ecology, human anatomy and physiology, evolution, and more.

    • The emphasis is on developing a solid understanding of biological principles and their applications.

    • HKDSE Biology includes practical work and experiments to enhance students' scientific skills and understanding.

    • Assessment is based on both school-based assessments (including laboratory work and assignments) and public examinations, including multiple-choice questions, structured questions, and extended response questions.

    👇Available for Download via https://www.hkeaa.edu.hk/en/hkdse/hkdse_subj.html?A2&2&5

human heart scale model
human heart scale model

Chemical needed in Biology study

To study Biology experiments, you will need various chemicals depending on the specific experiments you plan to perform. Here are some common chemicals used in Biology experiments:

  1. Stains and dyes: Methylene blue, iodine solution, Sudan III, and bromothymol blue are often used to stain or visualize biological specimens and structures.

  2. Buffers: Buffer solutions such as phosphate buffer and Tris-HCl buffer are used to maintain a stable pH in biological experiments.

  3. Enzymes: Amylase, catalase, and pepsin are enzymes commonly used in experiments related to enzyme activity, digestion, and metabolism.

  4. Indicators: Benedict's solution, iodine solution, and DCPIP (2,6-dichlorophenolindophenol) are examples of indicators used to detect the presence of specific substances like reducing sugars, starch, and vitamin C.

  5. Antibiotics: Penicillin, streptomycin, and tetracycline are antibiotics used in experiments related to microbial growth, antibiotic resistance, and the effectiveness of antibiotics.

  6. Agar: Agar is used to prepare solid media for growing microorganisms in culture experiments.

  7. Reagents for DNA experiments: Ethidium bromide, DNA extraction buffers, and restriction enzymes are used in experiments related to DNA extraction, gel electrophoresis, and gene manipulation.

  8. Chemicals for plant experiments: Plant hormones such as auxins, gibberellins, and cytokinins are used in experiments related to plant growth and development.

  9. Chemicals for animal experiments: Anesthetics like ether or chloroform may be used in experiments involving the study of animal behavior or physiology.

It's important to note that handling chemicals should always be done with caution and following appropriate safety guidelines. Make sure to consult your school or teacher for a complete list of required chemicals and safety precautions before conducting any experiments.