WHY STUDY THIS COURSE?

Chemistry is sometimes called the “central science” because it connects other sciences, such as Biology, Physics, Geology and Environmental Science. It’s a great stepping stone to pure Science university degrees and essential for other courses like Medicine and Dentistry.

As well as practical knowledge of the subject, Chemistry students develop many other skills prized by employers, such as problem-solving, numeracy, communication, creativity and data analysis. Gaining these skills means that you can have a future in all sorts of careers, from finance to public relations.

WHAT DOES THIS QUALIFICATION COVER?

We study OCR Chemistry A. 

The course covers Atomic structure, Orbitals and shapes, electronic configurations, molar quantities, structure and bonding, Kinetics and thermodynamics, Organic molecules, mechanisms and spectra, Transition metal chemistry and Chemical analysis.

WHAT WILL I STUDY?

YEAR 1:

Split into four teaching modules:

• Module 1 – Development of practical skills
• Module 2 – Foundations in chemistry
• Module 3 – Periodic table and energy
• Module 4 – Core organic chemistry

YEAR 2:

Students are taught an additional two modules:

• Module 5 – Physical chemistry and transition elements.
• Module 6 – Organic chemistry and analysis.

As well as continuing Module 1 – Development of practical skills. 

Students attend workshops at the University of Sheffield on spectroscopic techniques and organic synthesis.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

At the end of Year 13, all six modules are examined through 3 papers.

Paper 1: Periodic table, elements, and physical chemistry

Paper 2: Synthesis and analytical techniques are both 100 marks and worth 37%. They both contain a mixture of multiple-choice, short and long answer questions.

Paper 3: Unified Chemistry, is worth 70 marks and only 26% of the A2 grade. This consists of short and long answer questions.

In addition to this, students will receive the Practical Endorsement for experimental skills, which they gather throughout compulsory practicals during the two years.

WHERE CAN IT LEAD?

Anywhere! Not all Chemists wear white coats.

Chemistry can lead you to a career based in science, for example:

• Analytical Chemist
• Chemical Engineer
• Healthcare Scientist
• Clinical Biochemistry
• Forensic Scientist
• Pharmacologist
• Research Scientist (physical sciences)
• Toxicologist

It could also lead you in a totally different direction, for example, a career as:

• An accountant
• Environmental Consultant
• Science Writer
• Secondary School Teacher
• A Public Sector Worker
• A Doctor, Nurse, Midwife or other Healthcare Professions
• The list is endless!

COURSE MATERIALS