Chemistry
MINIMUM REQUIREMENT: Grade 6 in GCSE Chemistry Separate Science or a 6 in all of your Chemistry modules in a combined Science GCSE qualification. Grade 6 in GCSE Maths is recommended but if you have a Grade 5 YOU WILL NEED TO TAKE Core Maths as your enhancement option
Subject Leader: Mr J. Blake
Examination Board: AQA
A-Level Syllabus: 7405
Examinations: 100% (also included is a practical endorsement award)
What is A-Level Chemistry?
Chemistry is an exciting and challenging subject which helps us understand the world in which we live. It occupies a central and pivotal position in the sciences and its study develops an appreciation of many aspects of our complex and technical society. Chemists provide many of the materials of everyday life, together with the knowledge to improve healthcare and to appreciate and tackle major environmental problems that face us all. Studying A-Level Chemistry allows the opportunity to understand these chemical reactions and explore the new innovations of material science.
What makes a good Chemist?
A good chemist must, first and foremost, enjoy and be enthusiastic about the subject. Chemistry will suit anyone who has an inquiring mind, an ability to analyse and evaluate data, and who possesses good practical skills. Attention to detail is a must along with strong mathematical skills. It is also advantageous to be studying complementary subjects such as Biology, Physics, Mathematics, or Product Design.
What can I expect to learn in Chemistry?
A-Level Chemistry (7405):
Paper 1: Physical and Inorganic Chemistry
(35% of exam – 105 marks – a mixture of long and short questions)
Paper 2: Physical and Organic Chemistry
(35% of exam – 105 marks – a mixture of long and short questions)
Paper 3: Any content and any practical skills from the two year course
(30% of exam – 40 marks of practical skills, 20 marks any topic and 40 marks of multiple choice)
Practical endorsement award.
Practical assessment:
There is a series of twelve standard practical tasks that all A-Level students undertake (six in Year 12 and six in Year 13). Students have to design and carry out careful experiments and have to interpret and analyse data to reach reliable conclusions. Candidates are awarded with a practical endorsement at the end of the A level course.
Where could Chemistry take me?
Chemistry is essential for anyone wishing to pursue a career in Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Biomedical Sciences, Pharmacology, Pharmacy, Natural Sciences, Biochemistry, Physiotherapy and Sports Science. An A-Level in Chemistry can lead into a multitude of careers. The skills of analysis, logical thinking, planning, an ability to perform calculations, modelling and evaluation can be used in all fields from business and finance through to law.
Chemistry is very highly regarded by universities and employers. It is thought of as a very academic subject and success shows students have significant independent learning skills.
