AS Level Chemistry

The AS/A Level Chemistry follows the WJEC specification and builds upon topics covered at GCSE. The AS Level areas of study include atomic structure, bonding, classification of the elements in the Periodic Table, properties of materials, chemical analysis, thermochemical and kinetic analysis, properties and characteristics of organic compounds and instrumental methods. At A2 Level, the study extends to consider more advanced topics of the subject and includes Organic Chemistry, covering methods of synthesis and spectroscopic analysis and Physical and Inorganic Chemistry, involving energetics, kinetics, equilibrium and redox. These topics are delivered through two theory modules in each year of the programme.

The AS modules are: CH1 – “Controlling and Using Chemical Change”,

and CH2 – “Properties, Structure and Bonding”.

The A2 modules are CH4 – “Organic Synthesis and Analysis”

and CH5- “Physical and Inorganic Chemistry”.

In both years the third unit covered is “Practical Assessment”, CH3(AS), CH6 (A2).

The course is demanding and requires a range of practical and theoretical skills. Students are required to maintain an organised file of their laboratory work and course activities.

How you will gain the qualification

AS Level: CH1 and CH2 are both assessed through a 1½ hour stuctured written answer paper and are each worth 40% of the AS qualification; CH3 is worth 20%.

A2 Level: CH4 and CH5 are both assessed through a 1¾hour written paper and are each worth 40% of the A2 qualification; CH6 is worth 20%.

There will be internal mock examinations on published dates to provide realistic examination experience.

What qualifications you need

College:

Students wishing to study AS/A2 Levels at Coleg Cambria require a minimum of 6 full GCSEs at grade C or better including GCSE English or English Language. GCSE English Literature is not a substitute.

Course:

Students wishing to join AS Level Chemistry also need grades BB in GCSE Science and Additional Science or grade B in GCSE Chemistry.

A grade B in GCSE Maths is also required. All Maths and Science qualifications must be achieved on Higher Tier papers.

A grade B in GCSE English Language is recommended.

Students with grade C in these qualifications should seek advice on alternative Level 3 provision in Science.

For progression from AS to A2 a minimum grade E is required overall in the AS qualification, with a grade E attained on each theory paper.

Where to next

A Level Chemistry is accepted as a recognized academic qualification for entrance to all Higher Education institutions and particularly supports degree courses in Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Pharmacy, Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences. A2 Level Chemistry is a valuable qualification in its own right for progression to H.E.

A qualification in Chemsitry will enable you to consider research and development, marketing and sales, management, teaching, production, forensics and environmental science as areas for future work/employment.