Chemistry

EXAM BOARD: EDEXCEL

Entry requirements:

Grade 7/7 in Double Award GCSE, or 7 in GCSE Chemistry. Grade 7 in both GCSE Mathematics and English Language.

There is no coursework but students will be expected to complete at least 12 core practicals. Questions in Paper 3 will assess practical techniques.

Head of department:

Phil Price

A level Chemistry trains the mind to think clearly and rationally about any problem, not merely a science problem. Logic, objectivity and fairness are also qualities highly regarded by academics and employers alike; indeed Chemistry almost seems to be designed with these qualities in mind.

In recent years Chemistry has been a popular choice at A level and the modular course has proved attractive to Sixth Formers as well as delivering very good results. Looking ahead to higher education, a Chemistry A level is recommended for courses such as Environmental Science and Engineering, as well as the more obvious Chemistry, Biochemistry and related subjects. Chemistry at A level is essential if you wish to study courses in Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Science at university. The course is not modular and all the material covered will be examined at the end of the two year course.

Year 1 Topics

• Atomic Structure and the

Periodic Table • Bonding and Structure • Redox • Inorganic Chemistry and the

Periodic Table • Formulae, Equations and

Amounts of Substance • Bonding and Structure • Formulae, Equations and

Amounts of Substance • Organic Chemistry • Modern Analytical Techniques • Energetics • Kinetics • Equilibrium

Year 2 Topics

• Atomic Structure and the

Periodic Table • Bonding and Structure • Redox • Inorganic Chemistry and the

Periodic Table • Formulae, Equations and

Amounts of Substance • Energetics • Equilibrium • Acid-base Equilibria • Transition Metals • Bonding and Structure • Redox • Formulae, Equations and

Amounts of Substance • Organic Chemistry • Modern Analytical Techniques • Kinetics I • All topics across the full A level specification. • Half of the paper will focus on testing students’ knowledge and understanding of practical skills and techniques.

There is no coursework but students will be expected to complete at least 12 core practicals. Questions in Paper 3 will assess practical techniques.

Assessment

Paper 1: Advanced Inorganics and

Physical Chemistry. One hour and 45 minutes. 90 marks (30% of total qualification).

Paper 2: Advanced Organics and

Physical Chemistry. One hour and 45 minutes. 90 marks (30% of total qualification).

Paper 3: General and Practical Principles

in Chemistry. Two hours and 30 minutes. 120 marks (40% of total qualification).