A Level Chemistry

“Why should I study Chemistry?”

Deep down we are all chemists. Every time we light a match, boil an egg or simply breathe in and out, we perform a chemical reaction. Our bodies grow, develop and function entirely as a result of the chemical processes that go on within them. Our clothes and nearly all the objects of our everyday life are manufactured by the chemical transformation of raw materials like oil or iron ore, or by the chemical treatment of natural products like wood or wool. As a result, many doors are open to people with qualifications in chemistry, some of the areas where chemists are to be found included in all areas of industry, from the oil, chemical and pharmaceutical companies to a host of smaller enterprises producing new and specialist products.

“What will I study?”

In Year 12, you will study the atom and bonding, chemical calculations, types of chemicals and their uses, organic chemistry and how chemicals react. Experimental skills will be included through the different sections which you cover.
 

In Year 13 you will further develop the concepts by extending your knowledge of organic chemistry and chemical reactions studying a wide variety of chemical concepts and exploring the links between them.

Experimental work is essential in chemistry, so throughout the course you will develop good practical skills, which will then be assessed in the examinations. Additionally, students may be awarded a ‘pass’ in their Practical Skills Endorsement, at the end of Year 13, if they have passed the Common Practical Assessment Criteria (CPAC) across 12 required practicals.

Assessment

Students will need to take three 2 hour papers at the end of year 13. Practical skills are assessed in the examinations.  Additionally, students may be awarded a ‘pass’ in their Practical Skills Endorsement, at the end of Year 13, if they have passed the Common Practical Assessment Criteria (CPAC) across 12 required practical’s.

Progression Routes

An appreciation for how the world around you works, and understanding some of the fundamental discoveries and principles lead to some obvious science-based career paths. However, the skills that you develop studying Science actually opens doors to a variety of surprising careers.

Medicine – doctor, nurse, pharmacologist, research science,

Agriculture – farmer, tree surgeon, ecologist,

Sport and fitness - nutritionist, personal trainer, physiotherapist,

Engineering – physical, chemical, biochemical, mechanical, civil, electrical,

Emergency Services – paramedic, CSI, police officer, forensic scientist

Entry Requirements

Either a Grade 6 in GCSE Chemistry or a Grade 6-6 in GCSE Combined Science. A Grade 6 in maths is preferable to reflect the mathematical content of the course.

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