National 4 Chemistry

Award received

National 4 Chemistry is graded pass or fail.

Entry level – what do you need to do it?

Entry into National 4 Chemistry will normally depend on your attainment in the S3 Chemistry course.

Your S3 Chemistry teacher will advise you on whether National 4 is an appropriate level of study for you.

Course content: what will you learn?

Chemical changes and structure

You will learn about rates of reaction, energy changes of chemical reactions, the reactions of acids and bases and their impact on the environment. Focusing on these reactions, you will work towards the concept of chemical equations. You will research atomic structure and bonding related to properties of materials.

Natures chemistry

You will research the Earth’s rich supply of natural resources which are used by each and every one of us. You will investigate how fossil fuels are extracted and processed for use. You will investigate the chemistry of using fuels, their effect on the environment and the impact that renewable energy sources can have on this. You will learn about plants as a source of fuels, carbohydrates & consumer products and how chemists use plants in the development of products associated with everyday life.

Chemistry in society

You will learn about chemical reactions, properties and applications of metal and alloys. The chemistry of metals in chemical cells is explored. Through research, you will compare and contrast the properties and applications of plastics and new materials. You will investigate the use of fertilisers, the formation of elements, and the presence of background radiation. You will also research the use of chemical analysis techniques for monitoring the environment.

Teaching – what will you do?

Much of the course will be teacher-led but you will also be involved in a variety of tasks including practical experiments & investigations, written work, research and presentation tasks.

Assessment – how will you be assessed?

You will be assessed as follows:

· Unit assessments, covering knowledge & understanding and problem solving.

· Practical investigation, including planning, carrying out and reporting on an experiment.

· Added value assignment, including researching and reporting on a relevant topic of your choice.

· End of course assessment - although there is no SQA final exam you will be given an end of course assessment to help us decide whether or not progression to National 5 is a suitable pathway for you.

Homework

You will be given regular homework tasks, eg practice questions, research and revision tasks.

Progression – what can you do next?

Students who achieve a pass in National 4 Chemistry (unit assessments & end of course assessment) would be recommended to progress to National 5 Chemistry. Studying National 5 Mathematics is also recommended.

Careers

Chemistry is involved in our everyday lives and there is a vast range of jobs and careers open to those who have studied Chemistry at any level; great career opportunities exist both inside and outside the lab! Chemistry qualifications are essential for many careers including Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmaceutical industry, Forensic science, Environmental science, Petrochemical industry, Chemical engineering and many more.