What are Data-Based Questions? 

• Last or second-last question in Section A

• A 8–12 marks question that requires candidates to interpret, evaluate or solve problems using a stem of information, containing content/concepts that are not in syllabus.

 

How to approach Data-Based Questions?

• Start by browsing through the passage to get a rough impression of each para/table/figure. Don’t try to understand everything the first time you read through.

• Not all sentences are equal: Underline sentences that appear important (definitions, relations, examples)

• Read the questions. For each question, determine 

  • which topic it is related to 

  • what concepts we learnt in the topic. Identify relevant para and read it in detail; pay attention to underlined sentences.

• Note graphs/tables: Quote data given in answers.

 

How to do well in Data-Based Questions?

• Develop a good understanding of concepts and see the interconnectedness between different topics. For example: 

  • the concept of redox is seen in many topics, e.g. displacement reactions, organic chemistry, QA, acid-metal reactions, formation of ionic compounds etc.

• Polish answering techniques by practising data-based questions, especially those that require synthesis and evaluation (e.g. “compare and contrast”, “do you agree with…”, “discuss …”

• Develop comprehension skill by reading articles about how chemistry is applied in the real world. ​