Chemistry Post 16

Chemistry

Entry Guidance:

5 GCSEs at grades A* to C or equivalent.

A pass of at least grade B in GCSE Chemistry and grade B in one other GCSE Science or double grade B in double award GCSE Science (core and additional) higher tier; grade B in GCSE Mathematics and English language. A grade A in unit C2 (additional chemistry) or C3 (triple chemistry) is preferred.  This course will only run if a sufficient number of students express an interest.

Syllabus Outline:

The AQA Chemistry Syllabus contains the following modules:

AS Chemistry
Unit 1 - Foundation Chemistry
Unit 2 - Chemistry in Action
Unit 3 - Investigative and Practical Skills in AS Chemistry

A2 Chemistry
Unit 4 - Kinetics, Equilibria and Organic Chemistry
Unit 5 - Energentics, Redox and Inorganic Chemistry
Unit 6 - Investigative and Practical Skills in A2 Chemistry

The new A level syllabus has been updated to develop students’ knowledge and understanding of chemistry to provide a pathway to further study. It also aims to ensure that learning is enjoyable and enhances students’ enthusiasm for chemistry and to build on the How Science Works concepts introduced at GCSE. The modules concentrate on different aspects of chemistry and an appreciation of how those principles are used in the chemical industry.

Methods of Assessment:

The Scheme of Assessment for the AS and A-level examination is modular in nature.

The 4 examination papers (2 at AS and 2 at A2) are a format of short answer questions and longer structured questions to assess your knowledge and understanding of Chemistry. Practical skills are internally assessed and account for approximately 20% of the final examination grades at AS and 10% at A2.

General Comments:

Students can expect to spend a full double period in the laboratory each week. A special feature of the course is a full day visit to the Chemistry Department of Leeds University.