Chemistry

Students who study Chemistry at AS level have usually achieved a Grade C or above in both GCSE Science and GCSE Additional Science or GCSE Chemistry, or an equivalent standard in another appropriate Level 2 qualification. They also possess a C grade or above in GCSE Mathematics (Higher Tier).

Studying chemistry will let you develop many skills. These can be applied to further scientific study or to any other career or course you may choose. You will learn how to approach problems in a logical and analytical way. Practical and mathematical skills will also be developed from GCSE. During the course you will also use and develop your skills in communication, organisation and logical thinking. Basically, it will make you a well rounded scientist!

An AS or A2 level in chemistry will allow you to go into any number of careers. These include all medical and veterinary courses and various other science careers/courses such as forensics and geology. You can also use your chemistry AS/A2 level to change tack completely to study law or accountancy amongst many others. Basically, an A level in Chemistry proves to employers and universities that you are an intelligent and well-disciplined person!

Qualification: 
AS Chemistry
Length: 
Level 3 one year course, 4 periods per week
Unit 1: 

Brief description of Unit 1: This unit builds on the ideas you have studied at school and is designed to give you knowledge and understanding of atomic structure and the ideas on which numerical work and inorganic chemistry are based. Topics include Atoms, Moles and Equations, Acids, Redox, Electronic structure, Bonding and structure, Periodicity and Groups II and VII in the Periodic Table.  Practical work features regularly throughout this unit.

Unit 2: 

Brief description of Unit 2: This  unit will build on your ideas of organic chemistry from school. It will give you a foundation for studying the functional groups of organic molecules and their reactions, and raise issues about applying organic chemistry to everyday life.  It also covers some fundamental physical chemistry involving energy calculations, rates of reactions and equilibria.  There is a section on the chemistry of the air and green issues.

What the department specifically offers that is noteworthy...: 

We have excellent facilities with purpose built laboratories and sufficient equipment for all students to perform all practical techniques. We have digital projectors in all labs and regularly use the computers to show graphs, pictures, animations and examination papers. Molecular models can be shown as 3-dimensional objects and we have produced videos of complex practical procedures. The teaching staff are all friendly and approachable. We treat students as individuals and care passionately about their achievements. We are all experienced teachers who are determined to deliver the best quality lessons for our students. Assessment is rigorous and involves detailed independent work, mock examinations using books, end of unit tests and use of past papers. Data from assessments is stored using spreadsheets and is used regularly to analyse students’ progress and to highlight weaknesses. We encourage students to monitor their own development. We use a variety of teaching styles and methods which allow us to make the curriculum exciting and accessible. Studying chemistry involves all the senses: students can distinguish esters by smell; they use their hands to perform precise titrations; colour changes help them to analyse transition metal reactions; they can hear the evolution of gas during a redox reaction. We believe that students must interact fully in order to learn most effectively.

Exam Board: 
OCR
GCSE Requirements: 
General College entry requirements. You will also have the opportunity to discuss additional requirements at interview evening.