Chemistry

Chemistry is the science of matter. It encourages pupils to discover, investigate and develop their knowledge and skills in order for them to become confident young Scientists.

Chemists are the people who transform the everyday materials around us into amazing things. The knowledge gained through the study of chemistry opens many career pathways.

Hermitage Academy Chemistry department aims to inspire pupils and encourage an interest in science.  Each year pupils will progressively develop skills; including laboratory practical skills, numeracy and literacy skills, such as report writing, analysing data (e.g. calculating averages and percentages) and presenting data (e.g. producing bar charts and line graphs).  Pupils will also develop scientific knowledge, understanding and creativity through a variety of courses.  Our curriculum structure involves a Broad General Education (BGE) from S1 to S3 (pupils choose discrete sciences in S3) followed by 1 year SQA courses from S4 to S6 (National 4/5 Chemistry, Higher Chemistry and Advanced Higher Chemistry).

The Chemistry department take an active approach in developing the curriculum and sharing good experiences from their practice. There is a strong commitment to improve the experience of the young people who pass through our doors so every individual can achieve their potential in a positive environment.

S3 Specialisation:

     Course Outline

     The S3 Chemistry course builds on skills and knowledge built up in S1 and S2 Science.

     There will be 3 units covered within this course:

      Unit 1: Chemical Changes & Structure

    Topic 1: Reaction Rates. Topic 2: Atomic Binding & Structure. Topic 3: Acids & Bases.

      Unit 2: Natures Chemistry

    Topic 1: Fuels. Topic 2: Hydrocarbons: Topic 3: Everyday Consumer Products.

      Unit 3: Chemistry in Society

     Topic 1: Materials. Topic 2: Metals. Topic 3: Fertilisers: Topic 4: Nuclear Chemistry.

National 4 and National 5 Chemistry:

In National 4 and 5 there are three Units which have the same names but the degree of difficulty increases from National 4 to National 5 - Pupils also have to complete an added value unit (AVU) and a Learning Outcome 1 (LO1 practical) for National 4 and an assignment for National 5, on an area of Chemistry of their choosing.

    Assessment:

    End of unit assessments will be provided which will assess knowledge/understanding and problem solving   of the course.

    Homework:

    Homework will be provided on a regular basis to help consolidate the areas of the course.

    Progression:

    Upon completion of the S3 BGE course in Chemistry students will have the option of selecting S4 Chemistry/Physics/Biology     which will build upon some of the skills and knowledge gained in S3, extending this to the level of National 4 and National 5.      Courses are also available at Higher and Advanced Higher levels in S5 and S6.

    Useful websites:

    http://www.rsc.org/careers/future/your-future-chemistry

    http://www.planitplus.net/Schools/SubjectCareerList/

Department Teachers

Ms C. Stirling - PT Chemistry and Physics

Mr R. Paterson 

Mrs C. Campbell

Miss A. Davidson