Key Stage 5 Chemistry

AS/A2 Chemistry

Aspirin Molecule

The world of Chemistry is something you already know quite a lot about. We all do because Chemistry is all about us …. our clothes, our food, our environment, medicines we use, are all products of Chemistry in action. We are now living in an age of increasing Chemistry-based technology. Without Chemistry we could never have advanced to using liquid crystals in TVs, mobile phones and iPods.

Teaching and Learning

The course content is delivered in a variety of styles including the use of interactive lessons, up to the minute assessment for learning techniques, demonstrations, individual and group practical work. Students should have at least a grade B in GCSE Modular or Triple Science and Maths to cope with the demands of this qualification. Regular attendance and a high standard of homework are expected. Students should be able to study independently and use effective revision strategies.

Chemists are found in key jobs in all areas of industry: research, development, manufacture, analysis, sales and technical services. Further demands will require expertise to improve the environment, develop new foodstuffs, technology, medicines/pharmacology and modern forensic techniques.

A-Level Chemistry Students

AS Module F331 and F332: Chemistry for Life and Chemistry of Natural Resources.

  • The elements of life
  • Developing fuels
  • Polymer Revolution
  • Elements from the Sea
  • The Atmosphere

Coursework

Centre Assessed Units which allow students to develop their planning, practical, analytical and evaluation skills.

Assessment

The assessment for the AS qualification is split into 3 sections:

  1. Chemistry of Life Exam
  2. Chemistry of Natural Resources Exam (including an advance notice paper)
  3. Centre Assessed practical skills coursework. (F333)

A2 Module F334 and F335: Chemistry of Materials and Chemistry by Design

  • What’s in a Medicine?
  • The Materials Revolution
  • The Thread of Life
  • The Steel Story
  • Agriculture and Industry
  • Colour by Design

A2 Individual Investigation F336

Finally, candidates have the opportunity to carry out a single individual investigation. The topic may be taken from any aspect of Chemistry which interests them. Candidates are expected to spend about 18 hours in the laboratory carrying out practical work as part of their investigation, and an appropriate amount of time both before and after this period preparing for and using the results of their investigation.

Candidates are assessed in eight skill areas:

Skill Area A (Chemical ideas)
Skill Area B (Methods)
Skill Area C (Communication)
Skill Area D (Observations and measurements)
Skill Area E (Analysis and interpretation)
Skill Area F (Evaluation)
Skill Area G (Manipulation)
Skill Area H (Demand)