Chemistry
Chemistry is taught within the integrated science course. There is considerable time spent on practical work to introduce the pupils to good laboratory practice and develop their investigative skills. The sharing of ideas and participation in group work is encouraged within lessons, and for each chemistry topic, homework tasks often include simple practical activities to raise awareness of the scientific basis of everyday reactions in the home. The online textbook is clear and detailed, with a summary page and list of the key words at the end of each topic, and excellent images included to illustrate the concepts covered.
Course materials
The course is taught using the broad structure of Activate Chemistry, utilising the textbook, practical worksheets and assessment materials. It is supplemented by unique card-sort activities, electronic media and interactive resources developed by the science teachers at Farlington.
Working Scientifically
Laboratory safety rules
Hazard symbols
Laboratory apparatus & the Bunsen burner
Measuring mass, volume & temperature
Planning & conducting investigations
Data handling
Particles & Their Behaviour
Properties of solids, liquids & gases
Particle/kinetic theories
Changes of states
Heating & cooling curves
Diffusion
Gas pressure
Separation Techniques
Forming solutions & solubility
Filtration
Evaporation
Conservation of mass
Distillation
Chromatography
Acids and Bases
Common acids & bases
Indicators
The pH scale
Neutralisation reactions
Uses of neutralisation
Making and naming salts
How will I be assessed?
You will have a Science assessment after each topic, which will be 30 marks and will usually include a practical aspect as well.
There will be a Chemistry paper in the End of Year Examinations, which will contain questions on all of the topics you have covered up to that point.
If you have any queries about this curriculum, please contact: Mr Neil Forrest, Head of Chemistry, on nf@farlingtonschool.com