CHEMISTRY

The AS/A level Chemistry follows the AQA specification and builds upon topics covered at GCSE. Chemistry is concerned with the study of materials, how they react, and how they can be put to good use. You will take part in practical work and learn more about the theories that arise from your experiments. The course reflects the significant role played by chemistry in the development of 21st Century society.

The AS modules are:

Chem 1 - Foundation Chemistry

Chem 2 - Chemistry in Action

Chem 3 - Practical Unit

The A2 modules are:

Chem 4 - Kinetics, Equilibria and Organic Chemistry

Chem 5 - Energetics, Redox and Inorganic Chemistry

Chem 6 - Practical Unit

A level Chemistry aims to develop problem solving skills, enhance team working as well as improving numeracy and communication skills. You will need to have a good understanding of numeracy and have an aptitude for arithmetic, computation, handling data, algebra, geometry, graphs and application of these to real life problems. Commitment and organisation are key to success.

How you will gain the qualification

Each year you will sit 2 theory exams based on the work you have completed the previous term. The exams take place in May or June. You will also sit 2 practical exams taken in class time during the year, which count towards your final mark as well as working on various practical skills assignments in class during the term. The qualification is modular so each exam adds to the final grade.

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

What qualifications you need

Students wishing to study AS/ A Levels at Coleg Cambria require a minimum of 6 GCSEs at grade C or better including GCSE English or English Language.

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 Science and Maths qualifications must be gained on Higher Tier papers). A grade B in GCSE English Language is recommended.

AS Level Chemistry should be studied alongside another AS Level Science subject and / or AS Level Maths.

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

We live in an age of Chemistry-based technology and current and future demands will require chemical expertise in many areas. Both AS and A level qualifications in chemistry are very valuable either on their own or as a basis for supporting other subjects at both advanced and degree level. Students who study Chemistry at A level go on to study Biotechnology courses, Geology, Geography, Environmental Science, Forensics and Medical courses e.g. Nursing, Pharmacy, Medicine, Veterinary Science as well as Economics and other Business based courses.

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