9729 H2 Chemistry

Subject description

Science as a discipline is more than the acquisition of a body of knowledge (e.g. scientific facts, concepts, laws, and theories); it is a way of knowing and doing. It includes an understanding of the nature of scientific knowledge and how this knowledge is generated, established and communicated. 

Chemistry plays a central role in science, it built on the understanding of the laws of physics and provides a basis for understanding biological systems.

This syllabus is designed to place greater emphasis on understanding and application of scientific concepts and principles in many aspects of daily life. 

Experimental work is an important component and will underpin the teaching and learning of H2 Chemistry.

Subject Eligibility Criteria

Assumed knowledge:

Pure Chemistry OR Science (Chemistry / ____) 

If the subject or subject combination is oversubscribed, students will be allocated by Academic Merit. 

Indicative Grade Profile (IGP)(cut-off point):

Pass in Pure Chemistry

OR  A2 or better in Science (Chemistry / ____)

Please refer to our college’s website for subject eligibility criteria for more information.

https://yijc.moe.edu.sg/curriculum/subject-combination-n-eligibility/subject-eligibility-criteria 

Scheme of Assessment

Paper / weightage for A levels (H2 Chemistry);

All candidates are required to enter for Papers 1, 2, 3 and 4.

Subject objectives and other details

The H2 Chemistry syllabus guide can be accessed via the link below:

9729 H2 Chemistry (Assessment in 2025)

Enrichment opportunities in YIJC / Unique teaching approach

The following are some opportunities for learning in YIJC:

• Immersion Programme*

• NUS Chem E Challenge

• Chemistry Olympiad

• NUS Chemistry Enrichment Camp

• Learning Journeys to Institutes of Higher Learning

• Science research attachment programme

*Subjected to advisory from MOE.

Skill attainment

H2 Chemistry prepares students to study chemistry and chemistry-related subjects at university level by developing a good foundation in the core ideas of chemistry and understanding of the skills, ethics and attitudes relevant to the practices of science.

H2 Chemistry aims to develop abilities and skills that are relevant to the study and practice of science, useful in everyday life. It encourages efficient and safe practice as well as the systematic presentation of information and ideas appropriate for different audiences and purposes.

FAQ

1. I did not do Pure Chemistry or Combined Science (with Chemistry) in secondary school but I want to do Chemistry now. Is this possible?

H2 Chemistry syllabus is a rigorous 2 year course where candidates are assumed to have acquired knowledge and have a good foundation on the content of the O Levels Chemistry. Candidates taking H2 & H1 Chemistry at A level are assumed to have knowledge and understanding of Chemistry at O level, as a single subject or part of a balanced science subject. Teachers will build upon the assumed knowledge at the A Levels. Priority of spaces in the subject will be offered to students who performed better in their relevant O Level subject. 

Please refer to our college’s website for subject eligibility criteria for more information.

https://yijc.moe.edu.sg/curriculum/subject-combination-n-eligibility/subject-eligibility-criteria 

2. I have obtained A2 in Combined Science (Physics /Chemistry) in secondary but I want to take a subject combination with two H2 Science subjects (H2 Physics and H2 Chemistry) now. Is this possible?

Pure Science syllabus covers more breadth in content, more depth in analysis and application.
Pure Science syllabus also covers a wider range of relevant practical skills.

Some topics in H2 science syllabus assumes knowledge that is present in the Pure science but not in Combined Science.

There will be larger learning gap in the content and skills if students opt for two H2 science subjects with Combined Science background. Students who took Combined Science are strongly encouraged to opt for ONE of the Combined Science subjects to be offered at H2 level. This will help students better cope with the increased rigour of the A Level Curriculum. Students may select the option for two H2 sciences. If the combination is oversubscribed, the allocation of subjects will be by academic merit. 

For example, the IGP for double science with H2 Chemistry and H2 Physics is
Pass in both Pure Chemistry and Pure Physics

OR

Pass in Pure Chemistry and A2 or better in Combined Science (Physics/Biology)

OR

Pass in Pure Physics and A2 or better in Combined Science (Chemistry/Biology)

3. Is there any bridging modules for combined science students? I am worried that I cannot cope with H2 chem but I want to take it. 

There will be bridging modules to be completed by students with a Combined Science background. It will be conducted mainly via online platforms such as the SLS to bridge the learning gaps. Due to the demand and rigour of the H2 Science subjects, Combined Science students need to be discipline and self-directed to acquire the content as fast as possible to embark on the actual A level curriculum.

Any other relevant info

Chemistry is the study of everything, including ourselves! Everything you hear, see, smell, taste, and touch involves chemistry and chemicals (matter). We live in an intricate world of chemical reactions and interactions. It is essential to know about chemistry to understand the world around us.