Chemistry

There are 6 modules within the Biology courses, the first 4 modules are covered in AS Level Chemistry, and all 6 are taught in A Level Chemistry.

Module 1 – Development of practical skills

Skills of planning, implementing, analysis and evaluation

Module 2 – Foundations in chemistry

Atoms, compounds, molecules and equations.

Amount of substance.

Acid-base and redox reactions.

Electrons, bonding and structure.

Module 3 – Periodic table and energy

The periodic table and periodicity.

Group 2 and the halogens.

Qualitative analysis.

Enthalpy changes.

Reaction rates and equilibrium (qualitative).

Module 4 – Core organic chemistry

Basic concepts.

Hydrocarbons.

Alcohols and haloalkanes.

Organic synthesis

Analytical techniques

Module 5 – Physical chemistry and transition elements

Reaction rates and equilibrium (quantitative).

pH and buffers.

Enthalpy, entropy and free energy.

Redox and electrode potentials.

Transition elements.

Module 6 – Organic chemistry and analysis

Aromatic compounds.

Carbonyl compounds.

Carboxylic acids and esters.

Polymers.

Organic Synthesis.

Chromatography and spectroscopy (NMR).

Examinations:

AS Level

2 Examination papers equating to 3 hours of exams at the end of the course. 

The exams will cover core biology concepts and their applications, as well assessing understanding of practicals. 

20% of the question paper will assess mathematical skills.

A Level

3 Examination papers equating to 6 hours of exams at the end of the course. 

The exams will cover core biology concepts and their applications, as well assessing understanding of practicals. 

20% of the question paper will assess mathematical skills. 

There are a number of practicals that you must complete as a part of this course, which in themselves do not carry any marks, but must be evidenced as completed.

Career Pathways:

On completion of the A-Level many students elect to enter the world of Chemistry through different avenues either by progression on to university, a higher level apprenticeship or into a science orientated career.  Overall A-Level Chemistry is highly regarded as a good academic qualification by employers and universities. Career pathways include, Medicine Forensic Science, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Veterinary Science, Medical technology, Chemical Engineering, Paramedic Metallurgy, Food technology.

Entry Criteria:

Grade 6 or above in Chemistry and another single science or Grade 7,7 or above in Combined Science.