H1 Chemistry (Syllabus 8873), H2 Chemistry (Syllabus 9476), H3 Chemistry (Syllabus 9813) - Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is H2 Chemistry compulsory?
H2 Chemistry is not a compulsory subject at A Level. It is, however, included in many subject combinations offered at RVHS. It is also a pre-requisite in many courses at universities.
2. Is H2 Chemistry challenging?
H2 chemistry is challenging because it requires more than just understanding key concepts. It tests students' ability to apply these concepts to interpret information and experimental data in novel situations (data-based questions) and integrate knowledge across various topics within the syllabus, which is a crucial skill in Paper 3. It also demands that students work efficiently during practical coursework and analyse the data they collect. That said, while chemistry isn't easy, it isn't meant to be overly difficult either. It aims to challenge students in a way that fosters deeper understanding and hone cognitive thinking.
3. What is the difference between JC and Sec 3/4 Chemistry?
Sec 3/4 Chemistry offers an introductory understanding of Chemistry concepts. It introduces you to the breadth of topics in the fields of physical, inorganic, organic and experimental Chemistry. The content, concepts and skills taught serve as a foundation upon which JC Chemistry content and concepts are built. In addition to the breadth, JC Chemistry goes deeper into the fundamental understanding of the theories and models in the subject. Such deep understanding is critical in solving questions and the ability to integrate knowledge and understanding across topics of the syllabus are rigorously assessed at A Level.
An example to illustrate the difference would be Organic Chemistry. At the secondary level, you would have learned basic reactions of some functional groups; at the JC level, you will learn about the factors that affect the reactivity of functional groups, mechanistic principles of organic reactions, learn reactions that convert one functional group to another. To do well for Organic Chemistry, in addition to memorising reagents and conditions for reactions, you will need to be able to understand the connections between functional groups and key considerations for the reactivity and mechanistic principles.
4. What is the difference between H1 and H2 Chemistry?
One key difference is the absence of practical component in H1 Chemistry, but knowing experimental techniques and procedures will be useful for questions that are based on experimental and practical contexts. After all, Chemistry is, by nature, experimental.
Some topics in H2 Chemistry are not in the H1 Chemistry syllabus (e.g. Gibbs Free Energy and Entropy, Solubility Equilibria, Electrochemistry, and Introduction to Transition Elements). The scope of Organic Chemistry is also smaller in H1 Chemistry, but more emphasis is placed on the properties of organic molecules in the context of using them to synthesise polymers.
5. How is H2 Chemistry practical like?
Prior to a timetabled practical lesson, you will need to complete a Pre-lab quiz which is based on relevant concepts and skills that will be covered in that particular lesson. The collection of Pre-lab quiz will also constitute your revision resources for practical assessments. You may also be required to view instructional videos on certain experimental skills before the lesson.
During the lesson, you will practice experimental procedures such as titration, preparation of standard solutions, thermometric titration, gravimetric analysis, continuous and discontinuous experiments, and qualitative analysis. You will also collect the experimental data and carry out the results analysis. There will also be questions based on the theoretical concepts behind each experiment to help you consolidate your understanding of the task.
6. How do I join Singapore Chemistry Olympiad?
Students who have an interest and the motivation to learn beyond the H2 syllabus will be invited to join the weekly training session, in which you will study the relevant notes and complete assigned questions independently before going for the training session where discussions and debriefs of the questions will be carried out. Thereafter, students will sit for a selection test; those who have demonstrated suitable attitude and aptitude will be selected to represent RVHS in the Olympiad.
7. How do I enrol for H3 Chemistry?
The eligibility to offer H3 Chemistry is dependent on your overall H2 Chemistry grade, your MSG for JC 1 as well as recommendations from your Chemistry tutor. You need a strong foundation in H2 Chemistry. The H3 Chemistry offers additional content and includes the entire H2 syllabus. In view of the expanded scope, you will also tackle sophisticated problem sets – motivation to do extensive practices and independent learning is crucial.