Such problems are common. But when we are teaching for a particular exam, it must overcome these shortcomings as well. Our regular program has been exceptionally successful in eliminating these shortcomings due to its inbuilt feedback system.
The Student attends a class.
The class is followed by an immediate test of 10 to 15 selected short questions (objectives) based on the portion taught in the class. A few questions are easy which an attentive student can answer. Then appear the application based questions, slightly tougher ones. At least three questions are designed in such a way that even the sharpest of the students should be able to feel the challenge. This followed by an immediate discussion of the question.
Any loose concept is corrected then and there.
PRWs for home work provide a through follow up for updating of the previous topics.
(PRWs consist of a set of carefully chosen questions periodically given to the student (on daily/weekly basis). Chiefly consists of problem from previous topics, especially those which combine previous topics with the current one).