Choosing between Combined Science and Pure Science is one of the most important decisions secondary school students face during their Sec 3 subject streaming.
This guide breaks down the key differences between these options, helping you make an informed choice that aligns with your academic goals and future aspirations.
Combined Science Stream
Combined Science allows students to select two out of three science disciplines—Biology, Chemistry, and Physics—as their focus areas. Students may choose the third subject as a Pure Science option or drop it entirely from their curriculum.
The Combined Science syllabus offers a multidisciplinary approach with a broader scope but less complexity than Pure Science subjects. It contains roughly 75% of the content compared to Pure Science, making it less demanding while maintaining the same generalist approach students have been familiar with over the past two years.
Pure Science Stream
On the other hand, Pure Science subjects are generally more challenging than Combined Science, offering students who excel in science the opportunity to pursue Triple Science, where all three disciplines are studied as separately graded subjects. Alternatively, students can take one Pure Science subject while combining the other two as Combined Science.
These subjects provide in-depth knowledge that focuses on information directly relevant to actual scientific fields. Pure Science emphasises hands-on laboratory work and a more immersive learning approach, teaching practical knowledge applicable in real-life scientific settings.
Students should be prepared for a content-heavy curriculum, which includes a substantial amount of scientific principles and formulas to master.
Things to Consider When Selecting Science Syllabus
1. Intended Course in Tertiary Education
Some Polytechnic courses, like Biochemistry, require Pure Science for admission. Students planning to pursue science-related careers should select Pure Science subjects that align with their intended tertiary courses.
2. Interest and Expertise
Students who lack an interest in science or already struggle with the subject may find it challenging to manage multiple demanding Pure Science subjects. If a student excels in other subjects and doesn't plan to study science-related courses after secondary school, focusing on achieving strong results in Combined Science may be the optimal choice.
3. Grading Split
Combined Science results are consolidated into one overall science grade, which can be problematic for students who excel in one specific subject but struggle with another. In such cases, splitting subjects through Pure Science options allows students to focus on their strongest areas and achieve better individual subject grades.
Reliable Pure and Combined Science Tuition at Keynote Learning
Keynote Learning offers comprehensive tuition for Pure Physics, Pure Chemistry, and Combined Science, supporting students through their Upper Secondary Science journey. With unique methodologies, experienced teachers, and access to essential resources, Keynote Learning helps students develop the critical thinking skills necessary to excel in their examinations.
We provide:
Our proven approach ensures students build both subject knowledge and practical problem-solving abilities, preparing them for academic success in their chosen science pathway.