Chemistry A Level  

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6+ in core and additional or triple Science

6+ in Maths

6+ in English

Level 2 applied science not accepted

YEAR 12 COURSE SPECIFICATION

The course conveys the purpose and drama of chemistry by presenting it in the context of its practical applications, its history and its present research frontiers.

Physical chemistry

* Atomic structure

* Amount of substance

* Bonding

* Energetics

* Kinetics

* Chemical equilibria, Le Chatelier’s principle and Kc

* Oxidation, reduction and redox equations

Inorganic chemistry

* Periodicity

* Group 2, the alkaline earth metals

* Group 7(17), the halogens

Organic chemistry

* Introduction to organic chemistry

* Alkanes

* Halogenoalkanes

* Alkenes

* Alcohols

* Organic analysis

YEAR 13 COURSE SPECIFICATION

Topics covered in year 13 are:

* Optical isomerism

* Aldehydes and ketones

* Carboxylic acids and derivatives

* Aromatic chemistry

* Amines

* Polymers

* Amino acids, proteins and DNA

* Organic synthesis

* Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy

* Chromatography

* Thermodynamics

* Rate equations

* Equilibrium constant Kp for homogeneous systems

* Electrode potentials and electrochemical cells

* Acids and bases

* Properties of Period 3 elements and their oxides

* Transition metals

* Reactions of ions in aqueous solution

LEARNING AND SKILLS

Essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other.

A deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods

Competency and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills.

An understanding of how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society.

Use of theories, models and ideas to develop scientific explanations.

Use of knowledge and understanding to pose scientific questions, define scientific problems, present scientific arguments and scientific ideas.

Use appropriate methodology, including information and communication technology (ICT), to answer scientific questions and solve scientific problems.

Carry out experimental and investigative activities, including appropriate risk management, in a range of contexts.

Analyse and interpret data to provide evidence, recognising correlations and causal relationships.

Evaluate methodology, evidence and data, and resolve conflicting evidence.

Know that scientific knowledge and understanding develops over time.

Communicate information and ideas in appropriate ways using appropriate terminology.

Consider applications and implications of science and evaluate their associated benefits and risks.

Consider ethical issues in the treatment of humans, other organisms and the environment.

Evaluate the role of the scientific community in validating new knowledge and ensuring integrity.

Evaluate the ways in which society uses science to inform decision making.

EXAMINATION AND ASSESSMENT

 EXAM BOARD: AQA

COMPONENT	DURATION	MAXIMUM SCALED MARK
Paper 1	2 hours	105 - 35% of A Level
Paper 2	2 hours	105 - 35% of A Level
Paper 3	2 hours	90 - 30% of A Level

FUTURE PROSPECTS 

A level chemistry supports many university studies such as biological science, medicine, dentistry and veterinary science. Other routes include chemical engineering, biochemistry, pharmacology and many other scientific disciplines. Chemistry is an enjoyable subject in its own right and is highly valued in a student’s portfolio.

Student Quote:

This course at LaSWAP is fantastic, and has enabled me to become a better person.