CHEMISTRY

 

OVERVIEW

AS and A2 Chemistry builds on the work started in GCSE (e.g. Atomic Structure, calculating numbers of atoms using the Mole Concept, Organic Chemistry, Energy Changes, etc.) but the emphasis is on how to analyse data and the application of knowledge to unfamiliar situations.

As with all A-levels, there is an increase in the level of the work since you will be expected to make more use of your knowledge rather than just recall facts. The material is aimed at giving you a good understanding of how atoms, molecules and ions react and why they do so and hence you are introduced to a wider variety of reactions and situations than at GCSE level. At the end of a period studying Chemistry you will be numerate, analytical, and practical and have good problem solving, presentation and communication skills.

Chemistry is the central science and impacts on all facets of our lives. An understanding of chemistry is necessary to all other sciences from astronomy to zoology. All of the materials used by engineers and technologists are made by chemical reactions and we all experience chemical reactions continuously, whether it be breathing or baking a cake, driving a car or listening to a battery driven i-pod. Chemistry is concerned with all aspects of molecules, their physical and chemical properties, their composition and structure, their synthesis and use in the 21st century.

You should choose Chemistry at A-level if you have a definite career in mind which requires Chemistry or if you enjoy Chemistry and feel confident in many of the topics (one or two take some time to 'click' even for the top candidates at GCSE level) and if you wish to study a practically based subject.

You must have at least a BB in the Double Award Science to consider Chemistry at A -level (* * or AA is obviously more highly recommended).

COURSE CONTENT

The AS Course (Year 13) consists of:

Unit 1: Atomic Structure, Amount of Substance, Bonding and Organic Chemistry (1¹/₄  hour paper in January)

Unit 2: Energetics, Kinetics, Equilibria, Redox Reactions, Periodic Table and further Organic Chemistry (1³/₄ hour paper in June)

Unit 3: Laboratory chemistry - Assessment of Experimental Skills as practicals are performed during the year. (Internal Assessment throughout the year)
 

The_ A2 Course (Year 14) consists of:

Unit 4: Kinetics, Equilibria, Acids and bases, Further Organic Chemistry (including Polymers and Organic Analysis) (1³/₄ hour paper in January)

Unit 5: Redox Equilibria, Periodicity, Transition Metal Chemistry and Thermodynamics. (1³/₄ hour paper in June)

Unit 6: Laboratory chemistry - Assessment of Experimental Skills as practicals are performed during the year. (Internal Assessment throughout the year)