CHEMISTRY
QUALIFICATION:
A level
OVERVIEW:
The AQA Chemistry A level Specification has been tailored to follow on from GCSE Combined Science or GCSE Chemistry. It further develops your knowledge and understanding of the subject and provides a pathway for further study at University.
- Physical Chemistry
Atomic structure, quantitative chemistry, chemical bonding, thermodynamics, equilibria, acid and bases, redox, electrochemistry, rate of reaction.
- Inorganic Chemistry
Periodicity, transition metal and aqueous ions, redox, alkali earth metals and halogens
- Organic Chemistry
Functional group chemistry, isomerism, oxidation and reduction of organic compounds, polymers, amino acids, spectroscopy and analytical chemistry, organic synthesis.
Practical work
Quantitative and qualitative methods of analysis (titrations and formulae), reacting masses, precipitations, thermodynamics, rate of reaction, equilibrium, electrochemical cells, organic synthesis methods, chromatography.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
A good GCSE grade in Combined Science or Chemistry and Mathematics (Above a level 6 is recommended).
SKILLS:
Mathematical skills are essential together with the ability to problem solve and work independently. Practical and research skills are developed throughout the course.
EQUIPMENT:
No specific equipment is required but you will be provided with a laboratory book for recording evidence of required practicals and other experimental work. Lab Coats and safety equipment are all provided.
ASSESSMENT:
The course is divided into the 3 modules outlined above. Modules 1, 2 and 3 are tested by external examination at the end of year 13. Students will undertake the specified practical investigations throughout the course and these skills will be examined at the end of Year 13 also.
Paper 1 (2hours 35%) – Physical and Inorganic Chemistry (short and long answer written)
Paper 2 (2hours 35%) – Physical and Organic Chemistry (short and long answer written)
Paper 3 (2 hours 30%) – Practical techniques (data analysis, practical techniques, synoptic, (multiple choice, short and long answer written)
FUTURE PROSPECTS:
Chemistry is a highly rewarding degree level course and many of our students continue on to study it at the UK’s top Universities, including Oxford and Cambridge, and it is also essential for university degree courses in Biology, Physiotherapy, Chemical Engineering, Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, and Biochemistry. It is also a well-considered A level for many other degree courses such as Engineering, Law and Accountancy.
WHAT DO OUR STUDENTS SAY:
“A level chemistry is a challenging and rewarding course, that has allowed me to look at the world and see it in a different way”
“The practicals are enjoyable, we get more independence compared to GCSE and wearing a white coat is awesome”
“Chemistry at GCSE was excellent, but the deeper meaning at A level has really helped link ideas”
“The teachers are really helpful and explain anything I don’t get”
“Chemistry is a great subject that has no boundaries as to the direction I can go”
