DP Chemistry at GESS
At GESS, Chemistry is a dynamic and engaging course that provides students with the skills and knowledge to understand the world at a molecular level. The curriculum focuses on developing scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and practical experimental skills, all while exploring how matter interacts, reacts, and transforms. Students will delve into key concepts such as atomic structure, chemical reactions, energy changes, and environmental sustainability, preparing them for further study in scientific, engineering, and technological fields.
💠 Why Study Chemistry at GESS?
👉 Concept-Driven Learning – Students engage with essential chemical concepts such as structure and reactivity, which underpin the study of all chemical processes. These concepts help students make connections between different areas of the syllabus and real-world applications.
👉 Hands-On Laboratory Experience – Chemistry at GESS emphasizes practical investigation and experimentation, with students developing the skills to design, conduct, and evaluate experiments using both traditional methods and modern technology.
👉 Real-World Applications – Students explore the practical applications of chemistry, including its role in environmental issues, industrial processes, healthcare, and sustainability. They also evaluate the ethical and social implications of chemical advancements.
👉 Global Perspective – The course encourages students to consider global issues, such as climate change and energy production, through the lens of chemistry, highlighting the importance of scientific solutions to address these challenges.
💠 Core Units
The Chemistry curriculum is organized around two main themes: Structure and Reactivity. These concepts guide the exploration of key topics, including:
Structure: Atomic theory, bonding, and periodic trends.
Reactivity: Chemical reactions, thermodynamics, kinetics, and equilibrium.
Students will also conduct an independent Scientific Investigation to develop their research, data collection, and analytical skills.
💠 Assessment
🔸 Internal Assessment (IA) – Students complete a scientific investigation, where they apply theoretical knowledge to design, carry out, and analyze an experiment of their choosing.
🔸 Examinations
Paper 1 (SL & HL) – Multiple-choice questions that assess knowledge and understanding of core content.
Paper 2 (SL & HL) – Extended-response questions, with an emphasis on problem-solving and application of chemical principles.
💠 Chemistry at GESS: HL vs. SL
🔹 Chemistry (HL or SL): Understanding chemical reactions, acids and bases, stoichiometric calculations, analytical chemistry, organic chemistry as well as their applications in medicine, industry, and the environment.
🔹 Higher Level (HL): HL students explore more advanced chemical theories, including additional mathematical and experimental content. They also engage with more complex topics like kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics.
🔹 Standard Level (SL): SL students focus on the core principles of chemistry, ensuring a strong foundation in the subject while engaging with practical laboratory work and real-world chemical applications.
At GESS, Group 4 subjects combine theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical work and real-world applications. All students participate in a collaborative sciences project, research and investigations, preparing them with the skills for STEM careers and university studies in an ever-evolving scientific landscape.