Nature of the Subject

The course covers essential theoretical concepts in the subject, explores current chemistry applications, and prioritises advanced practical skills. Practical skills are evaluated through scheduled examinations. The focus is on grasping concepts, applying chemistry ideas in new situations, and gaining knowledge. The curriculum fosters creative thinking and problem-solving skills applicable to diverse career paths. Cambridge International AS and A Level Chemistry is suitable for those aspiring to study chemistry or related subjects at university or pursue a science-based career. 

Syllabus & Content

A Syllabus summary

Physical Chemistry

AS: Atomic structure, Atoms, molecules and stoichiometry, Chemical bonding, States of matter, Chemical Energetics, Hess’s Law, Electrochemistry, Equilibria, Reaction kinetics. 

A2: Chemical Energetics, Electrochemistry, Equilibria,  Reaction kinetics.

Inorganic Chemistry

AS: The Periodic Table: chemical periodicity, Group 2, Group 7 (17), Nitrogen and sulfur.

A2: Group 2, Chemistry of transition elements, Stability constants.

Organic Chemistry

AS. Formulas, functional groups and the naming of organic compounds, shapes of organic molecules  σ and π bonds, Hydrocarbons, Halogen compounds, Hydroxy compounds, Carbonyl compounds, Carboxylic acids and derivatives, Nitrogen compounds, Polymerisation, Organic synthesis, Analytical techniques.

A2: Optical Isomerism, Phenols, Acyl chlorides, Primary and secondary amines, Analytical techniques. 

Assessment

Paper 1, Paper 2 and Paper 3 are examined in Year 12. Paper 1 is 40 marks multiple-choice style questions and it is worth 15.5% of the A Level. Paper 2 is 60 marks structured questions and is worth 23% of the A Level. Paper 3 is Practical work and structured questions and is worth 11.5% of the A Level. All examinations in year 12 will be based on the AS Level syllabus content.

In Year 13 the students will complete two externally assessed examinations. Paper 4 is 100 marks structured questions based on the A Level syllabus and knowledge of material from AS Level syllabus is required and is worth 38.5% of the A Level. Paper 5 is 30 marks and questions are based of the experimental skills of planning, analysis and evaluation. The context of the question may be outside of the syllabus content and is worth 11.5% of the A Level.

Teacher Introduction

Welcome to the wonderful world of Chemistry.  Please watch the video above to hear about the exciting course that is A-Level Chemistry.