Chemistry A Level  

REQUIREMENTS

• 6-6+ in Combined Science or 6 in Chemistry plus a 6 in another science

  6+ in Maths

  6+ in English Language or English Literature

Plus our standard LaSWAP entry requirements for our A level pathway

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 of appropriate methodology, including information and communication technology (ICT), to answer scientific questions and solve scientific problems.
• Ability to carry out experimental and investigative activities, including appropriate risk management, in a range of contexts.
• Analysis and interpretation of data to provide evidence, recognising correlations and causal relationships.
• Evaluation of methodology, evidence and data, and resolve conflicting evidence.
• Communication of information and ideas in appropriate ways using appropriate terminology.
• Consideration of applications and implications of science and evaluate their associated benefits and risks.
• Consideration of ethical issues in the treatment of humans, other organisms and the environment.
• Evaluation the role of the scientific community in validating new knowledge and ensuring integrity.
• Evaluation of the ways in which society uses science to inform decision making.

EXAMINATION AND ASSESSMENT

 EXAM BOARD: AQA

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.

Chemistry is a required subject by most medical schools.  If a student is considering studying medicine, dentistry or veterinary science, we strongly recommend A level chemistry.