CHEMISTRY
Course Outline
This qualification provides the next step in understanding the interactions between materials. Develop a range of analytical and problem-solving skills, apply and solve mathematical and chemical equations. A challenging course which explores complex phenomena, through a combination of theoretical and practical science.
Qualification Information:
Level: AS/A2
Syllabus: WJEC
Duration: 1 Year for AS. 2 Years for A2
AS/A level Chemistry provides a broad, coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study. It encourages learners to develop confidence in, and a positive attitude towards, chemistry and to recognise its importance in their own lives and to society. Most topic areas, such as atomic structure, bonding, the Periodic Table, energy, rates of reaction and organic chemistry, will be familiar from GCSE but explored in greater detail throughout the course.
Entry Requirements
Essential
Level 2 threshold (5 A*-C grades or equivalent) including a minimum B grade at GCSE Chemistry or ‘B/B’ at GCSE Double Award Science. You will also require a ‘B’ Grade at GCSE Maths and ‘B’ at GCSE English.
Desirable:
This course is most suited to those achieving A/A* in GCSE Chemistry, it is well complemented by the study of A-Level mathematics
What Will I Study?
Year 12:
Unit 1 -The Language of Chemistry, Structure of Matter and Simple reactions
Unit 2- Energy, rate and the Chemistry of carbon compounds
Year 13:
Unit 3 - Physical and Inorganic Chemistry
Unit 4 -Organic Chemistry and Analysis
Unit 5 - Practical methods and analysis
How Will I Be Assessed?
Two written exam papers to cover the AS content sat in May of year 12, each 1 and a half hours long and worth 20% of the whole A2 qualification. 2 written papers on the A2 content sat in the June of year 13, each 1 hour 45 minutes long and each worth 25% of the whole A2 qualification. There is also a practical exam consisting of a practical exercise and a written paper which is examined in April of year 13 and is worth 10%.
Career Opportunities & Progression
Chemistry is a course requirement if you want to study Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering and Veterinary science. If you do not wish to go to University, you can enter employment in the chemical industry or health field. An AS or A-Level in Chemistry develops and demonstrates many transferable skills appreciated by many employers in non-chemical careers as well as science-based careers.