Chemistry

The WJEC A level in Chemistry provides a broad, coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study. It encourages learners to develop confidence in, and a positive attitude towards, chemistry and to recognise its importance in their own lives and to society. Studying this A level in Chemistry encourages learners to:

- Develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other

- Develop and demonstrate a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods

- Develop competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills- Develop their interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject

- Understand how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society

Structure of the course

This specification is divided into a total of 5 units:

2 AS units and 3 A2 units. (Weightings noted below are expressed in terms of the full A level qualification.)

AS (2 units)

Unit 1 (20%) The Language of Chemistry

Unit 2 (20%) Energy, rates and carbon chemistry

A Level (the above plus a further 3 units)

Unit 3 (25%) Physical and Inorganic Chemistry

Unit 4 (25%) Organic Chemistry and Analysis

Unit 5 (10%) Practical - Experimental Task (30 marks) Practical Methods and Analysis Task (30 marks)

Career paths and next steps

Medicine, Engineering, Manufacturing, Science and Research, Nursing, Environmental Science

Chemistry can be useful in many different job families such as engineering and manufacturing, science and research, as well as medicine and nursing and environmental science. A chemistry qualification could open doors to all sorts of jobs that you may have never even imagined! The food we eat, the clothes we wear and the technology we use all depend on chemistry. Chemists develop new medicines, safeguard our food supply and monitor and protect our environment.

Teacher Profiles

Dr N Wayman (BSc Biochemistry; PhD Cardiovascular Pharmacology)

Area of expertise; Physical and Inorganic Chemistry

Mr J Taylor