Chemistry AS and A Level

Summary:

What will you learn on this course?

• To develop an interest and enjoyment in chemistry
• To gain knowledge and understanding of chemistry so that you can see the patterns and links which run throughout the subject
• To look at chemistry in the real world and assess the social, environmental, economic and technological impact of the chemical industry
• To develop laboratory skills
• To appreciate how different areas of chemistry fit together.

At least five GCSE passes at grade A*-C including: A*-B grade in Science and Additional Science or Chemistry and another Science;A*-B grade in Maths.

How will you be assessed?
AS (taken in May/June of the first year)
Unit 1
Atomic Structure, amount of substance, bonding, periodicity, an introduction to organic chemistry Exam: 1 hour 15 minutes. There are 4 - 6 short answer questions plus 1 - 2 longer structured question(s).
Unit 2
Kinetics, redox reactions, the halogens, extraction of metals, haloalkanes and alkenesExam: 1 hour 45 minutes. There are 6 - 8 short answer questions plus 2 longer structured questions.
Unit 3
Investigative and practical skills – making observations and measurements; analysing and evaluating results; how science works.This is assessed by teacher assessment of practical skills in a range of practicals throughout the year and assessment of an investigative assignment.

A2 (taken in May/June of the second year) Unit 4
Acids and bases, naming and isomerism in organic chemistry, study of some homologous families, organic synthesis and analysisExam: 1 hour 45 minutes. 6 - 8 short answer questions plus 2 - 3 structured questions. Some of the questions will have synoptic elements.
Unit 5
Thermodynamics, periodicity, redox equilibria, transition metalsExam: 1 hour 45 minutes. 6 - 8 short answer questions plus 2 - 3 structured questions. Some of the questions will have synoptic elements.
Unit 6
Investigative and practical skills – making observations and measurements; analysing and evaluating results; how science works.This is assessed by teacher assessment of more advanced practical skills in a range of practicals throuhgout the year and assessment of an investigative assignment.

What other courses go well with this one?
Subjects you enjoy! Combining Chemistry with Physics and Mathematics will equip you for the widest range of options, including careers in Science, Engineering and Technology. Chemistry also complements Biology well, helping students to understand Molecular Biology and Biochemistry. Chemistry can be useful for those who wish to study Environmental Science and Archaeology. Students of art or photography with an interest in the technical aspect will find Chemistry useful for developing that interest. Chemistry may be combined with relatively unrelated subjects, like Law or Business Studies, for it develops skills in numeracy, reasoning, problem solving, communication and research.

What will you need to buy?
Textbooks tailored to this course (new for 2008 first exam 2009) are now available and we will be able to advise you later on the most suitable books. You will need to buy a lab-coat. This can be done at the beginning of the course.

What could you go on to do at the end of the course?Study for a degree (or possible HND) in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Medicine, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Biology, or some related area, or use it as a general academic qualification. Enter employment in the chemical industry or health field. An AS or A-Level in Chemistry develops and demonstrates many transferable skills appreciated by many employers in non-chemical careers as well as science based careers.

How can you find out more about the subject?Dip into the websites www.aqa.org.uk or www.rsc.org or look at any A level Chemistry textbook.

Please contact the Advice Shop for details of costs and start dates.

Please note that although the information given is believed to be correct at the time of publication, course information, costs where applicable and attendance details may change.