Chemistry

Course summary

Aims of the course is to encourage you, the candidate, to develop: • An enthusiasm for Chemistry. • Gain hands-on practical skills and data analysis skills. • Appreciate how science works and its relevance beyond the laboratory. • Demonstrate a synoptic understanding. • Study Chemistry in a contemporary context. • An appropriate and relevant level of knowledge and skills for study at the H.E. level. Are you considering a career in Chemistry, Chemical engineering, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Pharmacy, Medicine, Dentistry Veterinary Medicine, or Veterinary Science? If the answer is yes then you should be considering studying Chemistry. In Year 12 candidates are given a solid grounding in the fundamentals of Chemistry. The specification introduces the chemical reactivity of atoms and their compounds and provides an understanding of structure and bonding. Chemical calculations include the study of amounts of substances. Physical chemistry topics cover energy changes and rates of reactions. The development and use of the periodic table are explained and organic chemical reaction mechanisms are introduced. In Year 13 the specification further develops the concepts of chemistry introduced in Year 12. Candidates study physical chemistry topics of kinetics, equilibria, thermodynamics, and electrochemistry. Organic chemistry is extended to include spectroscopic techniques that determine molecular formulae and structures of organic compounds. The study of the periodic table continues, including the chemistry of transition elements. Chemistry is fundamentally an experimental subject. The course provides numerous opportunities to use practical experience linking theory to reality and equipping students with essential skills. Practical skills are assessed continuously throughout the course through 12 compulsory activities leading to a ‘practical endorsement’. There is no coursework component. As a subject on its own, A Level in Chemistry shows that you have a high level of scientific skill, numeracy, and understanding. Taken with other sciences, Chemistry A Level opens up many careers including Pharmaceutical Industries; Pharmacy; Biochemistry; Medicine, and related medical careers; Laboratory Technician; Environmental Scientist, Forensic Scientist, Chemical engineer, Materials Engineer, and Oil and Petroleum Chemistry.