Chemistry AS/A Level

General information

Chemistry is a blend of the theoretical and the experimental and its study is both challenging and rewarding. Relevant documents, including the full specification can be found at the OCR website (Chemistry A – H034/H434).

Course content

This course will provide you with ample opportunity to cultivate problem solving, intellectual and practical skills.

For the AS portion of the course, the three modules are:

• Module 1 - Atoms, Bonds and Groups. Atoms and Reactions. Electrons, Bonding and Structure. The Periodic Table.
• Module 2 - Chains, Energy and Resources. Basic Concepts and Hydrocarbons. Alcohols, Halogenoalkanes and Analysis. Energy. Resources.
• Module 3 - Practical Skills in Chemistry 1. Coursework. It consists of several assessed practical skills scattered through the year.

For the A2 portion of the course, the three units are:

• Module 1 - Rings, Polymers and Analysis. Rings, Acids and Amines. Polymers and Synthesis. Analysis.
• Module 2 - Equilibria, Energetics and Elements. Rates, Equilibrium and pH. Energy. Transition Elements.
• Module 3 - Practical Skills in Chemistry 2. Coursework. It consists of several assessed practical skills scattered through the year.

Teaching and assessment

There is an assessed coursework component in both the AS and A2 years. Module exams are available in January or June. There are three AS modules and three A2 modules. Both the AS and A2 year each contribute 50 per cent to the overall A level.

Entry requirements

To study AS Chemistry you must also be studying at least one AS from Biology, Physics or Maths.

On very rare occasions there may be exceptions to this requirement, so please contact the advice and admissions team at the College. They will direct your enquiry to the subject team.

In addition, you will need to have:

• Seven GCSEs grade A-C, including English Language
• BB in two GCSE science subjects (e.g. Core Science, Additional Science or separate GCSE sciences)
• B grade in GCSE Maths

If you have vocational qualifications at level 2 or other non-standard entry qualifications, please contact the guidance team at the College for advice.

Progression

Chemistry is a prerequisite for many university courses, e.g. medicine, veterinary science, dentistry, pharmacy, physiotherapy and forensic science. Chemists can also pursue careers in law, business, accountancy and industry.

Dates and times

This course begins in September. The duration of this course is two years.