“Chemistry begins in the stars. The stars are the source of the chemical elements, which are the building blocks of matter and the core of our subject.” Peter Atkins FRSC (1940 – present day)
The Earth is a vast reservoir of mineral, organic and energy resources. Chemists have learned how to use these resources to make new substances for the benefit of human beings, ranging from medicines and fertilisers to plastics, fibres and superconductors. Chemistry at A Level aims to illustrate the widespread importance of Chemistry and to foster imaginative and critical thinking. Throughout the specification, Chemistry is related to our need to understand the structure of our world and the changes which take place in it.
A Level
The course aims to provide a sound well-balanced knowledge of the subject, to develop an appreciation and understanding of the interlinking patterns, which are a distinctive feature of Chemistry and to show their applications in social, economic, environmental and technological aspects of our lives. Ideas are introduced in a spiral way with topics introduced in an early part of the course reinforced later. This course places a particular emphasis on an investigation and problem-solving approach to practical work which is supported by extensive new materials developed by OCR.
Course Content and Assessment – Examination Board: OCR, Code: H432
Year 1
Unit 1: Development of practical skills in Chemistry
Unit 2: Foundations in Chemistry
Unit 3: Periodic table and energy
Unit 4: Core organic Chemistry
Year 2
Unit 5: Physical Chemistry and transition elements
Unit 6: Organic Chemistry and analysis
The written examinations for the A Level are:
- Paper 1: Periodic table, elements and physical chemistry (Written exam: 2 hours 15 mins, 37% of the qualification)
- Paper 2: Synthesis and analytical techniques (Written exam: 2 hours 15 mins, 37% of the qualification)
- Paper 3: Unified chemistry (Written exam: 1 hour 30 mins, 26% of the qualification)
There is no coursework or controlled assessment. A non-examined practical endorsement in this subject is a compulsory requirement of the course and pupils will be assessed in this area via twelve practical assignments throughout the duration of the course.
Co-curricular
The course is backed up by visits to University College, London for their excellent lecture and enrichment series aimed at A Level pupils and visits to A Level Science Live and Chemistry in Action days when appropriate.
Whenever possible, visiting speakers will be invited into school to discuss their work and careers in an informal environment. A Level pupils will also have the opportunity to run a Science Club for Junior School pupils and be a part of the editing team for the Science Department’s pupil led magazine “Cosmos” which is published termly.
Careers & Higher Education
Chemistry is an essential A Level for anybody wishing to enter a medical based degree course such as Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Science. However, the skills acquired from an Advanced Level in Chemistry are also essential for any physical or biological based Science course at university e.g. Biochemistry or Biomedical Science. Chemistry graduates are also highly sought after by City firms due to their excellent analytical skills which can be applied to many areas of their trade.
