Chemistry
Studying Chemistry at The Senior School will involve theory and practical Science. We look at chemical reactions and how chemistry helps explain the world around us.
KS4 (Years 10 and 11): IGCSE
EDEXCEL 4CH1
What will I learn?
This is a single-tier qualification with a duration of two years. It is suitable both for students for whom it is a final Science qualification and for those students who require a sound foundation for further study of Chemistry at A-level. The course covers the major topics in Chemistry and their associated experimental skills, as follows:
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Year 10 |
Year 11 |
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States, Elements, Compounds and Mixtures |
Calculations |
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Atomic Structure and Periodic Table |
Metallic Bonding, Extraction, Uses of Metals |
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Chemical Formulae, Equations and Redox |
Energetics |
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Ionic and Covalent Bonding |
Rates of Reaction |
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Electrolysis |
Reversible Reactions and Equilibria |
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Alkali Metals and Halogens |
Organic Chemistry and Crude Oil |
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Gases in the Atmosphere |
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Reactivity Series |
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Acids, Bases and Salt Preparations |
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Chemical Tests |
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The aims of the course are:
- To develop students’ understanding of the unifying patterns and themes of Chemistry.
- To further students’ appreciation of the practical nature of Chemistry and develop accurate experimental and investigative skills based on correct and safe laboratory techniques.
- To enable students to formulate hypotheses and design experiments to test them.
- To develop an understanding of the widespread importance of Chemistry and the way materials are used in the world.
- To show how the work of the Chemist has social, industrial, technological, environmental and economic consequences for the community.
What sort of homework will I be set?
You will be set a variety of homework tasks including practical laboratory questions, FORMS quizzes, past paper questions and textbook exercises.
How will my work be assessed?
Continual assessment will take place throughout the course in order to assess your progress. This will take the form of homework, class work, exam practice, quizzes and tests.
How is the course examined?
There are two written papers, one of 2 hours and the other of 1 hour 15 minutes.
Sixth Form: AS and A level
International A Level: EDEXCEL XCH11/YCH11
What will I learn?
The course is rigorous and covers the major topics in Chemistry and their associated experimental skills. The topics are separated as follows:
International AS Level Chemistry (Year 12)
Unit 1: Calculations, Atomic Structure, Bonding and Introduction to Organic Chemistry
Unit 2: Energetics, Group Chemistry, Halogenoalkanes and Alcohols
Unit 3: Practical Skills in Chemistry I
International A2 Level Chemistry (Year 13)
Unit 4: Rates, Entropy, Equilibria, Acids-Bases and Further Organic Chemistry
Unit 5: Redox Equilibria, Transition Metals, Aromatic Compounds and Organic Nitrogen Chemistry
Unit 6 : Practical Skills in Chemistry II
Students will develop their knowledge and understanding of Chemistry by applying the concepts that they study to a range of different problems, set in a variety of contexts. Students will need to apply mathematical skills to the problems and develop their practical skills. This course includes at least 16 Core Practical activities.
How is the course assessed?
At the end of Year 12 students sit three written papers, Units 1 and 2 are of 1 hour 30 minutes and Unit 3 is of 1 hour 20 minutes. This gives an IAS in Chemistry.
At the end of Year 13 students sit a further three papers, Units 4 and 5 are of 1 hour 45 minutes and Unit 6 is of 1 hour 20 minutes to get an IAL in Chemistry.
What are the entry requirements for this course?
- IGCSE Chemistry with a grade of 7; preferably Grade 8 or 9 at IGCSE. Students entering with a 7 may find the course challenging.
- IGCSE Physics is strongly recommended but not required (those without a background in Physics may have difficulties with certain Chemistry topics)
- IGCSE Maths grade 6 or above
Future career choices
This course will prepare you for careers such as Medicine, Pharmacy, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Physics, Food Technology, Education, Chemical Engineering, Archaeology, Geology, Research, Agronomics/Agriculture, Molecular Engineering, Biomedical Sciences, Industrial Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry (Research Sciences), Biochemical Engineering, etc.
