Chemistry

Subject Name: As/A2 Chemistry Exam Board: AQA

Brief outline of subject:
This topic is usually studied by students who have a genuine interest in science (especially chemistry) and who wish to pursue their studies of Chemistry to a greater depth and understanding than that required at GCSE.
This is an interesting course that it is delivered in such a fashion to allow pupils to develop many key skill areas; e.g. literacy skills, numeracy skills, IT skills, presentation skills and team working to name but a few. Furthermore, as is tradition in Chemistry you will have the opportunity to experience the smells, colours and occasional explosions associated with Chemistry lessons through the development of your practical skills.

Examples of topics covered:
In the first year there are three learning units. In Unit 1 you’ll cover foundation subjects like atomic structure, periodicity and organic chemistry. Then in Unit 2 you’ll work up to topics like kinetics, alkenes and analytical techniques. Unit 3 happens throughout the year and is dedicated to investigative and practical skills.
Year two follows a similar format. Unit 4 introduces you to 17 topics, including
equilibria, polymers and aromatic chemistry. Unit 5 covers thermodynamics,
energetics and inorganic chemistry. And Unit 6 – like Unit 3 – is the practical,
hands-on part of second year.

Assessment:
In the first year you’ll have a 75 minute written paper on Unit 1 (33% of your
year marks) and a 105 minute paper on Unit 2 (47% of your year marks).
The remaining 20% of your marks for the year are awarded for the Unit
3 practical work. A pass in year one is recognised with an AS level. Half
your marks are carried forward to the second year as a credit.
In the second year you’ll have a 105 minute paper on Unit 4 (40% of
your year marks) and a 105 minute paper on Unit 2 (40% of your year
marks). The remaining 20% of your marks for the year are awarded for the
Unit 6 practical work. Half your year two marks are added to half your year
one marks… and a pass is recognised with a prestigious A Level.

Useful websites:

http://www.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/chemistry_new.php

www.knockhardy.org.uk/sci.htm

http://www.s-cool.co.uk/alevel/chemistry.html

www.kerboodle.com

Possible career progression:
Chemistry is a great choice of subject for people who want a career in health and clinical professions, such as medicine, nursing, biochemistry, dentistry or forensic science. It will also equip you for a career in industry, for example in the petrochemical or pharmaceutical industries.

Subject leader: S.Cruickshank Contact email: Steven.Cruickshank@tonypandycollege.co.uk