If you’re struggling with graphs, Desmos is the tool for you. It’s an online graphing calculator that lets you visualise mathematical functions. You can quickly graph equations with minimal effort.
For example, you can enter equations of straight lines and then adjust the gradient or y-intercept to see how they change. Desmos also allows you to plot more complex quadratic, reciprocal and trigonometric functions.
The best part? Desmos is interactive and allows you to experiment. You can enter any possible equation you can think of and instantly see what it would look like when turned into a graph.
PhET provides virtual simulations that let you experiment with real-world science concepts online.
If you’re studying circuits, for example, the Circuit Construction Kit allows you to build electrical circuits using virtual components like batteries, resistors, and bulbs. You can then see how changing these components impact the flow of electricity, helping you to understand key concepts such as voltage, current, and resistance.
Similarly, you can check the pH of common acids and bases in your household using the pH Scale or see how modifying the mass of objects alters the forces between them in the Gravity Force Lab.
ExploreLearning Gizmos houses over 400 interactive simulations for both Maths and Science. These simulations cover everything from algebra and geometry in Maths to forces and motion in Physics.
Explore Learning is particularly valuable when it comes to linking science topics to the real world. There are gizmos that allow you to carry out chemical reactions and even explore entire ecosystems.
The most unique feature this website offers is the ‘STEM Cases’. These allow you to take on a scientific role (think forensic scientist, conservation worker or physicist) and solve a problem such as managing a disease outbreak in a particular city or even helping to identify a criminal. STEM Cases are perfect for putting your learning in context.
If you’re someone who dislikes questions about practical experiments, Atomic Labs is a gold mine. This website simplifies experiments and guides you through experiments. What’s more, its cartoon-style interface makes it feel as though you’re taking a much-needed break from studying. You can explore the effect of light intensity on plants, the reactions of metals with acids and experiment with refraction, among other things.
If you find spatial reasoning difficult or geometry isn’t your thing, loci can be a daunting topic. You may want to bookmark the constructions section of the Math Open Reference website. It allows you to work through key constructions, such as the perpendicular bisector of an angle or drawing the perpendicular from a point to a line. Unlike videos, which require you to pause after each step so that you can follow along the process with your ruler and compass, this website offers a stepwise animation that allows you to learn at your own pace.
If you’re looking to take your Maths skills to the next level, take the leap with NRICH. NRICH is all about solving tricky and thought-provoking problems that go beyond your regular revision questions. It will improve your ability to tackle those think-outside-the-box questions in your GCSE exam.
NRICH helps to prepare you for questions that test you on multiple concepts at once. It’s not just about getting the right answer—it’s about developing the skills to think critically. This will not only help prepare you for your exams – it might get you thinking about maths in a whole new light.
The Science Museum is a great resource for understanding the history of common scientific objects. The ‘Objects and Stories’ section helps you see where key scientific inventions came from and learn about the people behind them.
When you need a break from your books or need a little motivation to tackle your next physics topic, this website offers a ‘behind-the-scenes’ look at the important contributions scientists have made to our daily lives. It may also offer you some inspiration and a chance to think more creatively about the concepts you are studying.
Remember!
Science and maths don’t have to be dry and dull. These free tools and sites can inject some vitality into your revision, bring academic ideas to life and help you look at STEM subjects through a different lens. All you need is some patience, curiosity and a willingness to experiment – these are key traits for any budding scientist, mathematician or engineer!
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