Chemistry

Introduction

The course is based on Nuffield Chemistry which aims to develop understanding and knowledge of the subject through practical work.  Most of the topics studied will be familiar from GCSE but they are treated in more depth and with greater rigour. 

Students are taught by two staff who follow parallel "strands" of work.  Much of the theory emerges from practicals but this is supported by whole-class teaching when active participation is encouraged.  Whilst there is a significant amount of factual knowledge to be learnt, the course aims to build upon principles and scientific method, and so reduces rote learning.  Much independent study is necessary to supplement class time and the department provides materials to support this.  We also encourage students to identify areas where they need assistance, and actively to seek our help.

Subject Choice

A2 and AS Chemistry are well respected by universities and employers.  As the “central” Science, Chemistry combines particularly well with Biology, Physics and Maths, and has proved a sound foundation for Higher Education courses in any of the Sciences, Engineering and Medical areas (for which it is usually essential).  However, in recent years it has increasingly been combined with non-science subjects and has been a useful stepping-stone to other fields of study such as law, economics, and business studies.

Requirements

The most important requirement is that Students should have an interest in the subject.  Students will have taken either a Double Award Science GCSE or Chemistry GCSE. An A-grade or above is desirable because students with only a B-grade will find access to the highest grades very demanding.  A GCSE in Mathematics is also assumed and should be at B-grade or above.  Studying Mathematics as an AS helps in understanding Physical Chemistry but is not essential.

Course Content

At AS, the “coursework” consists of eight assessed practicals which are carried out in normal lesson time.  The “coursework” at A2 is an investigation similar to the one carried out at GCSE.

The course is divided into units of study.  The first three units lead to the award of AS-Level.  All six units comprise a full A-Level.  The content is as follows:

AS Unit1 (15%) Introduction to organic and inorganic chemistry. Alcohols. Acid-base reactions. The Alkali Earth Metals.

AS Unit 2 (20%) Redox reactions and halogens. Covalency. Hydrocarbons. Halogenoalkanes. Intermolecular forces.

AS Unit 3 (15%) Internal assessment of practical skills.

A2 Unit 4 (15%) Rates of reaction. Equilibrium reactions. Benzene and phenol. Entropy. Oxidation products of alcohols.

A2 Unit 5 (15%) Biochemistry Special Study. Practical investigation.

T. J. Parker

R.S.

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