The New York Chemistry Regents have changed this year.
The test now has harder and more modern questions, and many NYC students say they feel more stressed as they get ready to take it in June. Teachers also say they are working fast to update lessons so students don’t fall behind.
For a long time, the Chemistry Regents barely changed. Students could study old tests and know what to expect. However, this year is different.
The state added new topics, new types of questions, and more real‑life science problems. Because of this, students are unsure what the test will look like, and teachers are trying to prepare them as best as they can.
Ms. Abbatamarco, a chemistry teacher, said she thinks most of her students will still pass, but she knows the new test is harder. “This version is tougher,” she said. “Students need to understand the ideas, not just memorize facts. I tell them to practice every day and ask questions when they’re confused.” She said she would rate the difficulty an eight out of ten.
Sophomore Carlton Lee said he feels nervous, but is trying to stay calm. “I think I can pass if I study a lot,” he said. “I’m worried about the new reaction questions because they look confusing. But I’ve been doing practice problems and going to extra help.” Lee said his teacher has been giving more worksheets and review packets to help the class get ready.
Junior Oscar Liu, who took the old Chemistry Regents last year, said the old test felt easier. “It was mostly memorizing,” he said. “This new one sounds like you have to think more and explain your answers.” He said last year’s test felt predictable because teachers had many old examples to use. “My advice is to learn why things happen in chemistry, not just the steps,” he said. Liu also thinks the new test will have more charts, graphs, and lab‑style questions.
Across the city, teachers are adjusting their lessons. Some schools are offering after‑school review sessions. Others are giving students online practice tests so they can get used to the new question style.
Students say the hardest part is finding enough time to study, since many of them have other Regents and finals around the same time. Even with the stress, many teachers say the new test could help students understand chemistry better.
As the test draws closer, students and teachers are doing everything they can to prepare for the new exam. The test may be tougher, but many hope it will help students connect science to the real world.
“They’re learning more deeply,” Ms. Abbatamarco said. “It’s a challenge, but they’re rising to it.”