Chemistry is as up to date as the clothes you wear, the food you eat, the air you breathe and the car you ride in. Almost every aspect of your daily lives is affected or controlled by Chemistry.

Chemists create new materials and test existing ones. They are involved in engineering, fuel technology, electronics, space travel and every other form of modern science. A world without chemists and chemistry would be a very difficult place in which to live.

An A-Level in Chemistry allows you to develop a range of generic skills requested by both employers and universities. For instance, a successful A-Level chemist will be an effective problem-solver and be able to communicate efficiently both orally and with the written word.

You will be competent at using data and applying Mathematical skills to often abstract concepts. It is little wonder then, that some of the major employers of graduate Chemists are the banking and financial industries.

Course Content and Methodology

Students in Year 12 study four modules, a practical module which is assessed internally and three units of theory.

Topic areas for the theory modules include: atoms, compounds, bonding and equations, acid-base and redox reactions as well as organic chemistry. There is a significant mathematical content to the A-Level with topics on energy changes, stoichiometry and reaction rates involving not only an understanding of the theory but a good foundation in mathematics.

Year 13 builds on the Year 12 topic areas and introduces a more detailed study of physical, organic and analytical Chemistry. Students will be taught by two Chemistry teachers, who share the teaching of the course.

Assessment

Exam Board: OCR GCE A-Level Chemistry A H432

Component 1: Periodic Table, elements and physical chemistry - 100 marks (15 multiple choice, 85 short answer) 37%

Component 2: Synthesis and analytical techniques - 100 marks (15 multiple choice, 85 short answer) 37%

Component 3: Unified Chemistry - 70 marks 26%

Component 4: Practical endorsement for chemistry Pass/fail – non exam

Course Requirements

Students must have studied dual award or separate sciences at GCSE Higher Tier and whilst students can complete the course with grade 6, students are more likely to have successful A-Level outcomes if they have achieved grade 7 or above. Supporting grades in mathematics are also a requirement.

Facilities