Chemistry - A Level

This is a course which will challenge you and help you to understand, and test, the world around you.

The department is built around a team of very experienced and enthusiastic teachers and technicians, who run a busy programme of teaching, support and practical classes. Chemistry works particularly well in combination with biology, physics and/or mathematics. As part of any programme of study it will certainly improve your skills in numeracy, practical work and logical thinking. Many Chemistry students will also take the opportunity to pursue a related Extended Project qualification in a topic linked to their intended career.

COURSE CONTENT

You will cover a range of topics such as:

Elements of life - Atomic structure, bonding and calculations.
Developing fuels - Energetics and organic.
Elements from the Oceans - Redox halogens, solubility and pH calculations.
The Ozone - Radicals and CFCs
What’s in a medicine? - Organic and spectroscopy.
The Chemical Industry - Equilibrium and kinetics.
Polymers and Life - Polyester and biological chemistry.
Developing metal - transition metals and electrochemical cells.
Colour by Design - aromatic compounds, dyes and organic synthesis.

ASSESSMENT IN YEAR 1

At the end of year one there will be a written assessment consisting of multiplechoice questions and a mix of short answer and extended response questions

PROGRESSION ONTO YEAR 2

Progression to the second year of this A Level course will be dependent on having made satisfactory progress in the first year of the course, including achieving at least an E grade in a formal late spring assessment, as well as the maintenance of a good level of attendance and commitment throughout the year.

FINAL ASSESSMENT AT END OF YEAR 2

The A Level is entirely based on three written examination papers taken at the end of the second year and is based on both years’ work.

MINIMUM ENTRY CRITERIA

For an A Level programme of study, we normally require students to have a range of at least five to seven GCSE passes at grade 4 or higher, ideally including English and Mathematics, but students must also satisfy the minimum entry criteria for A Level Chemistry below.

Grade 6	GCSE Mathematics
AND
Grade 5	Both 1^st and 2^nd grade GCSE Combined Science

WHAT CAN I DO AFTER STUDYING A LEVEL CHEMISTRY?

Chemistry can lead to a career in the chemical industry, management, medicine, paramedical services, veterinary medicine, nursing, pharmacy, teaching, conservation, environmental areas etc. Students also go on to pursue university courses of study in related subjects such as forensic science, biochemistry, environmental science and others.