Chemistry
Chemistry is a rapidly expanding subject which allows us to understand the fundamental principles of science and has huge implications for the way we live our lives. A-level Chemistry is the ideal choice for those who have enjoyed the challenge of their GCSE course. Over the two years you will build upon the knowledge gained at GCSE and study three key areas: organic chemistry; inorganic chemistry and physical chemistry.
Course Overview Autumn and Spring terms:
Module 1 – Physical chemistry: Atomic structure, Amount of substance, Bonding, Energetics, Kinetics, Chemical, equilibria and Le Chatelier’s principle, Oxidation, reduction and redox equations
Module 2 – Inorganic chemistry: Periodicity, Group 2 the alkaline earth metals, Group 7(17) the halogens
Module 3 – Organic chemistry: Introduction to organic chemistry, Alkanes, Halogenoalkanes, Alkenes, Alcohols, Organic analysis
Summer term:
Completion of practical activities for Year 12
Preparation in use of Scientific language and exam technique
Commencement of Year 13 work in June, after the end of year assessment
Practical work: Practical work is assessed and carried out over the year in six required practical activities. These contribute to a pass/fail practical endorsement and do not affect the final letter grade.
Resources: http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/as-and-a-level/chemistry-7404-7405
Useful Information:
This qualification is linear; students will sit all their exams at the end of their A-level course.
Further opportunities:
Progression to University or modern apprenticeship Chemistry can open pathways to many careers either through a university or modern apprenticeship route. Examples of subjects where Chemistry is desirable are: Chemistry, Teaching, Chemical Engineer, Pharmacy, Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary, Biochemistry, Forensics. Other employment opportunities Many employers are looking for a science A level as an indication of analytical skills, so some Chemistry students choose careers in, for example, economics; business; the Civil Service; management and marketing.
A minimum of five subjects at grade 4 (or above) including: Grade 6 in Chemistry or Grade 6,6 in Combined Science, Grade 6 in Mathematics (Higher Paper) and Grade 5 in English Language.
Half termly testing on recent and previous work.
Pre-public exam and end of year exam in exam conditions, following this format:
Paper 1 (50%) Relevant physical chemistry topics and Inorganic chemistry plus relevant practical skills 80 marks – 1 hour 30 mins 15 marks are multiple choice and 65 marks are short and long answer questions
Paper 2 (50%) Relevant physical chemistry topics and organic chemistry plus relevant practical skills 80 marks – 1 hour 30 mins 15 marks are multiple choice and 65 marks are short and long answer questions
