Chemistry

Why study Chemistry?

‘Every aspect of the world today, even politics and international relations, is affected by chemistry,’ said Linus Pauling. Chemistry is all around us: in our food, clothes, water, air, medicines, detergents and cleaning agents. Even our emotions are governed by chemical reactions in the body.

Chemistry helps pupils to study and understand the world around them. The A Level course provides opportunities to consider the applications of Chemistry in the wider environment, such as the development of new forms of energy, the study of climate change and the uses of nanotechnology and analytical techniques.

Course content

• Atomic Structure • Chemical Bonding and the Periodic Table • Quantitative Chemistry • Oxidation and Reduction reactions • Organic Chemistry • Energetics • Polymers and Analysis • Chemical kinetics • Equilibrium • Acids, Bases and pH • Electrochemistry • Thermodynamics • Environmental Chemistry • Transition Metal Chemistry

Will I enjoy it?

Chemistry suits pupils who like solving problems, looking at the fine detail and analysing data. It helps them to understand current events and explain how things work. It teaches useful skills: objective thinking, how to reason and apply logic, and informed decision-making. Practical work is an integral part of the study of Chemistry, and much of the theory is backed up by experiments conducted during the course.

What else should I consider?

Chemistry opens up career options; it sits well with a wide range of subjects and is often regarded as the central science. It complements the other sciences, Geography and Mathematics. It also works well with other subjects such as Religious Studies and Languages because Chemistry extends the range of skills that a pupil develops. It is a good pathway to a wide range of scientific courses and careers.

Chemistry A Level is essential for the study of Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Forensic Science and Pharmacy. Most universities also require it for the study of Biology and Environmental Science. Many other university courses, such as Law, value the rigorous analytical skills gained in Chemistry.

Assessment

Examination board: OCR

Three end-of-course examinations:

Paper 1: Periodic table, elements and physical chemistry (2 hours 15 minutes) Paper 2: Synthesis and analytical techniques (2 hours 15 minutes) Paper 3: Unified chemistry (1 hour 15 minutes)

Teachers will also assess pupils’ practical skills (based on a minimum of 12 compulsory practicals) against Common Practical Assessment Criteria. Pupils reaching the required standard will receive a pass grade for their assessed practical activities, which is required for entry to some university courses.

Who can give me more information? Mr Angelosanto

a.angelosanto@sherborne.com