Based on our meticulous research and analysis of historical paper trends, we have identified several high-probability topics that are more likely to feature in the 2026 GCSE papers.
While these "tasters" provide a starting point for your revision, they represent only a fraction of the predicted papers available in our full predicted papers.
Sample Predictions
Computer Science (OCR J277):
Sample Focus Area (Question 2 of our predicted paper 1)
The Definition of a LAN: Students must define a Local Area Network as one that covers a small geographical area, such as a single building, school, or site.
Ownership and Management: A key technical detail often required for full marks is that the infrastructure—including cables, switches, and servers—is owned and managed by the organisation or individual using it.
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Physics (AQA 8463):
Focus Area (Sample Question 1 of our predicted paper)
Atomic Structure and the Nuclear Model
A core focus area for 2026 is the transition from the Plum Pudding Model to the Nuclear Model.
The Plum Pudding Model: Students must be able to describe this as a sphere of positive charge with negative electrons embedded within it.
Rutherford’s Alpha Scattering Experiment: This is a high-priority topic. We anticipate questions regarding how the deflection of alpha particles disproved the plum pudding model.
Isotopes and Mass Number: Calculations involving protons and neutrons (e.g., Helium isotopes) remain a staple for one-mark questions to test fundamental understanding.
Expert Edition Feature: The Physics Papers bundle includes our integrated Examiner Commentary and Question Variations for every question. These meticulous insights are highlighted in a green font colour, allowing you to identify the precise technical keywords required for full marks at a glance across the entire specification.
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Chemistry (AQA 8462):
Focus area (Paper 1)
Group 7 Periodicity (Question 2 of our predicted paper)
The Chemistry Paper 1 often uses Group 7 (The Halogens) to test a student's ability to explain trends using atomic structure.
Reactivity Trends: Reactivity decreases as you descend the group. This is a "must-know" concept for 2026.
The Structural Reason: As the atomic radius increases (more electron shells), the outer electrons are further from the nucleus. This results in a weaker electrostatic attraction, making it more difficult for the atom to "capture" the final electron it needs to react.
Displacement Chemistry: More reactive halogens will displace less reactive ones from their salts. A common focus is the reaction of Bromine with Potassium Iodide, resulting in a colourless-to-brown transition as iodine is displaced.
Expert Edition Feature: The Chemistry Papers bundle includes our integrated Examiner Commentary and Question Variations for every question. These meticulous insights are highlighted in a green font colour, allowing you to identify the precise technical keywords required for full marks at a glance across the entire specification.
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AQA Combined Science: Trilogy (8464)
Sample extracts from our full predicted papers
Chemistry: Chemical Changes (Paper 1 sample)
Focus Area: Preparation of Pure, Dry Crystals of a Soluble Salt
The Reaction: Reacting a solid base (e.g., Magnesium Oxide) with a dilute acid (e.g., Hydrochloric Acid).
Students must understand the importance of adding the solid in excess. This ensures that all the acid has reacted, preventing the final salt crystals from being contaminated with unreacted acid.
Observations: Completion of the reaction is evidenced when some unreacted powder settles at the bottom of the flask, or when the pH reaches neutral.
Physics: Energy Resources (Paper 1 sample)
The National Grid and Seasonal Demand
Data analysis of energy supply and demand is a staple of the Trilogy Physics component.
We anticipate questions regarding why the National Grid must utilise a variety of energy resources. A mix of base-load (nuclear/gas) and renewables is required to ensure supply consistently meets demand throughout these seasonal fluctuations.
Biology: Ecology (Paper 2 Sample)
Human Impact on Ecosystems
Eutrophication: This is a process that students must be able to describe step-by-step. It begins with agricultural runoff containing fertilisers (nitrates and phosphates) entering water bodies.
The Biological Chain: The runoff causes an algal bloom, which eventually dies. Aerobic bacteria then decompose the dead algae, consuming oxygen faster than it can be produced.
This leads to severe oxygen depletion, resulting in the death of fish and other aquatic animals.