Course
Chemistry
Exam Board
OCR
For more information contact Head of Department:
Mr R Rawal - rrawal@stedmunds.org
Brief introduction to subject:
Although Chemistry is not an easy option, the correct approach to study can make it an extremely rewarding and enjoyable subject.
We would expect that you show an interest in Chemistry by reading around the subject, e.g. Chemistry review magazines, New Scientist articles etc. Every hour of Chemistry teaching needs to be matched with an hour of private study, this equates to around 4 hours per week.
Chemistry addresses critical challenges in society today, from developing new energy sources, synthesising new drugs and nano materials to tackling local and global environmental problems.
Chemistry combines well with the other sciences, maths and other technical subjects and is a good choice if you enjoyed it at GCSE.
What our students say
"It’s hard work, but good fun."
"I really enjoy the practical sessions!"
Course Requirements
Science - Grade 6-6 in Trilogy Combined or Grade 6 in Chemistry
English - Grade 4
Maths - Grade 6
Assessment
A series of terminal examinations, covering the following six modules:
1. Development of practical skills
2. Foundations in Chemistry
3. Periodic table and energy
4. Core organic chemistry
5. Physical Chemistry and transition elements
6. Organic Chemistry and analysis
Paper 1 - 37% - Periodic table, elements and physical Chemistry. Examines modules 1, 2, 3 and 5. Varied multiple choice and short answer questions
Paper 2 - 37% - Synthesis and analytical techniques. Examines modules 1, 2, 4 and 6. Varied multiple choice and short answer questions
Paper 3 - 26% Unified Chemistry. Examines all units. Longer answer questions (no multiple choice)
Year 12
Module 1 - Development of practical skills: (planning, implementing, analysis and evaluation)
Students carry out a series of practicals on (1) Mole determination (2) acid-base titration, (3) Enthalpy changes, (4) Qualitative analysis and (5) synthesis of an organic liquid. These are carried out throughout the year. Unlike previous years these practical tasks do not contribute to the assessment of the AS award
Module 2 - Foundations in chemistry
Includes: Atoms compounds molecules and equations; Electrons, bonding and structure; Amount of substance; Acid-base and redox reactions
Module 3 - The Periodic table and energy
Includes: The periodic table and periodicity, Group 2 and Group 7, Qualitative analysis, Enthalpy changes Rates and Equilibrium (qualitative)
Module 4 Core organic chemistry
Includes: Basic concepts, Hydrocarbons, Alcohols and Haloalkanes, Organic synthesis, Analytical techniques (IR, MS).
Year 13
Module 1 - Development of practical skills (planning, implementing, analysis and evaluation)
Students carry out a series of practicals on (6) Synthesis of an organic solid, (7) Qualitative analysis of organic functional groups, (8) Electrochemical cells, (9) Monitoring the rate of a chemical reaction. They will also carry out unscaffolded investigations on (10) initial reaction rates and (11) pH measurement as well as a research task(12)
Module 5 Physical chemistry and transition elements
Includes: Rates of reaction and Equilibrium (quantitative); pH and buffers; Enthalpy, entropy and free energy; Redox and electrode potentials; Transition elements
Module 6 Organic chemistry and analysis
Includes: Aromatic compounds; Carbonyl compounds; Carboxylic acids and esters; Nitrogen compounds; Polymers; Organic synthesis; Chromatography and spectroscopy (NMR)
Chemistry is one of the subjects that, when studied in depth, will equip you effectively for the multidisciplinary world beyond A level. As well as developing your core knowledge of the subject you will develop a variety of skills that will enhance your employability or tertiary education post 18 regardless of course followed. Chemistry is particularly useful if considering following any scientific pathway and is essential for medical, pharmacy and environmental monitoring careers.
