Science is a
Foreign Language.
Why do smart students struggle? Often, it's not the math—it's the vocabulary. Everyday words like "Work" and "Heat" are false friends in Physics. We teach you how to translate them.
The "False Friend" Trap
In real life, if you try hard but fail, you did "work". In Physics, if you don't move the object, Work = 0.
We give every technical term a 15-second "Birth Certificate" when introduced, strictly defining its operational meaning versus its everyday usage. This simple habit prevents years of confusion.
Everyday English
"I went to work today."
= A place, or mental effort.
Physics Meaning
W = ∫F·dr
= Energy transferred by force over displacement.
How We Bridge the Gap
Our "Science Understanding" pedagogy focuses on semantics, modeling, and visualization to clear the fog.
Semantic Training
Science is a foreign language. We explicitly teach the difference between everyday words and their precise scientific meanings.
Model-Based Thinking
We teach students how to simplify reality into 'working models'—and crucially, to understand the limitations of those models.
Multiple Representations
We don't just use equations. We teach concepts through diagrams, graphs, verbal descriptions, and physical demos simultaneously.
Qualitative Interpretation
Before solving the math, students must describe the phenomenon in words. This ensures deep conceptual understanding, not just rote calculation.
Busting Common Misconceptions
We proactively identify pre-existing incorrect ideas using "Think-Aloud" protocols before formal instruction begins.
Force & Motion
Myth"Constant force maintains constant velocity."
FactConstant force causes acceleration (changing velocity).
Falling Objects
Myth"Heavier objects fall faster than lighter ones."
FactGravity acts equally; only air resistance changes the rate.
Action-Reaction
Myth"Weight and Normal Force are an action-reaction pair."
FactThey act on the same body. Action-reaction pairs act on different bodies.
Inside Our Classroom
Field-tested, low-friction tactics we use to ensure clarity.
The Polysemy Table
A running 3-column list on our wall:
Word | Everyday Sense | Physics Sense.
Visual repetition prevents ambiguity.
Symbol Colour-Coding
We explicitly differentiate symbols.
e.g., I (Current) vs I (Moment of Inertia).
Students report far fewer "symbol shock" errors.
Exit Ticket Reflection
End of class question:
"Which word still feels fuzzy?"
Five minutes of responsiveness saves hours of remediation.
Student Resources
Download our curated guides to help you bridge the language gap at home.
The Translation Cheat Sheet
A 1-page guide distinguishing 20 dangerous words (Work, Heat, Power) in everyday vs. Physics contexts.
Polysemy Table Template
A blank template for students to build their own glossary of terms with everyday vs. scientific definitions.
Misconception Buster Guide
Top 10 Physics myths debunked with diagrams and simple explanations.
Start Speaking the Language of Physics.
Don't let vocabulary hold you back from an 'A'. Join Mr. Chew's classes and master the concepts, not just the math.