Chemistry

A-Level

Examination Board: AQA

Specification: 7405

Course Leader: Mr A Cameron

Contact Email: acameron@tgschool.net

Are you interested in:

• Practical Chemistry?

• Applications of science?

• Problem solving?

• Scientific research?

What Will I Study?

From the moment of birth, we are surrounded by Chemistry. The air we breathe, the food we eat and the clothes we wear; they’re all Chemistry. Chemistry is the study of substances: what they’re made of, how they interact with each other and the role they play in living things. From research in space to the depths of the oceans, Chemistry helps students understand the world around us.

The course is divided into the fundamental areas studied by Chemistry: Organic, Inorganic and Physical.

Organic Chemistry

Accelerates the students’ learning from their GCSE Chemistry into the world of organic molecules. The students learn about the properties and reactions of the different families of organic chemicals. These topics in turn introduce the students to aspects of bio-chemistry, medicine and polymer synthesis.

Inorganic Chemistry

Builds on prior knowledge of the periodic table and the patterns that can be observed within it. The students will learn how to explain those patterns and investigate the unique chemistry of the transition metals.

Physical Chemistry

Explains the energies that drive chemical reactions by applying fundamental principles. The students can reveal the reasons behind the spontaneity of certain reactions and explain the lack of reactivity in others. These principles allow chemists to manipulate the elements into unique chemicals and underpin the other two disciplines. Practical skills in Chemistry will be taught throughout the content.

Additional Entry Requirements

Grade 6 in GCSE Maths, Grade 6 in GCSE Chemistry or Grade 6/6 in GCSE Combined Science.

Assessment:

•  1 x 2 hour exam on Inorganic, Physical Chemistry and relevant practical skills for 35% of the A-Level.

•  1 x 2 hour exam on Organic, Physical and relevant practical skills for 35% of the A-Level.

•  1 x 2 hour exam on all content and practical skills for 30% of the A-Level.

Leading to futures in:

Future pathways can cross over to the other sciences or venture into biochemistry, geochemistry, chemical engineering or physical chemistry, medicine, chemical engineering, veterinary science, anatomy and physiology. Future careers and sectors include government agencies, environmental agencies, consultancy, hospitals, universities, public health laboratories, testing companies, manufacturers (pharmaceuticals, food, energy sources, materials, polymers, biotechnology, paint or chemicals).

Mr A Cameron (ACA)	Head of Chemistry
Mrs S Luxon (SLU)	Head of Science
Miss M Smith (MST)	Teacher of Science