Chemistry
Chemistry is the internal machinery of life
OCR Specification
OCR Chemistry is about different chemical structures and how we manufacture and use these chemicals in industry; it ranges from the fundamentals of chemistry to organic and inorganic chemistry. Studying Chemistry at A Level will not only answer the questions raised by your studies at GCSE, but may even allow you to answer some of the currently unanswered questions in the world today. As a subject, Chemistry is highly regarded by both universities and industries alike due to the risk-taking and problem-solving skills it develops.
During lessons, you can expect to take part in problem-solving activities, practical investigations, class discussions about Chemical ideas and designing experiments.
You will study:
Within A Level Chemistry, you will study a range of interlinked disciplines, some of which will extend the knowledge you attained at GCSE, others of which will be completely new to you. Within similar topics, such as organic chemistry, there is a much heavier focus on the chemical reactions and mechanisms that are used to synthesise these chemicals.
Year 1: Foundations in Chemistry, Periodic table and energy, and core organic chemistry.
Year 2: Physical Chemistry and transition elements, and Organic chemistry and analysis.
Across both years you will undertake practical work to further your knowledge of measurement and errors.
Assessment
A Level Chemistry is assessed on three final exam papers. Two of these are two hours 15 minutes each and the other is one hour 30 minutes. However, an endorsement of practical skills is also required. Due to the practical nature of the course, there are 12 required practicals that must be completed. These will be assessed by teachers and will be based on direct observation of students’ competency in a range of skills that are not assessable in written exams.
Careers/Further Education
A-level Chemistry is a highly regarded entry qualification for a wide range of university courses, including many which are not directly linked with the subject. Chemistry opens the door to careers in a huge variety of fields, including: Research & development chemist, Analytical chemist, Chemical engineer, Materials scientist, Toxicologist, Pharmacy, Medicine, Nursing, Patent agent, Science teacher, and many unrelated careers e.g. accountancy, insurance, marketing.
For more information please contact Mrs Waldron
