CHEMISTRY
a level
Course Overview
You will study a variety of topics which deal with the substances that make up our universe. Learn about the way that elements can be combined in a seemingly limitless number of ways to give countless millions of different materials. Study how atoms link together to form larger structures such as molecules and the mechanisms by which molecules can be reshaped and adapted.
This subject occupies a central position between physics, mathematics and engineering on the one hand, and biology, earth science and medicine on the other.
welcome Video
ASSESSMENT METHOD
At the end of Year 12 you will sit end of year exams, these will not count towards your final results.
There are three final written examinations at A level, two of which are 2 hours 15 minutes long and the third is 1 hour 30 minutes long. Practical skills will be tested in the exams and you will be awarded a pass on your certificate if you successfully complete the practicals and laboratory books.
Year 12 Units
Foundations in Chemistry
In this unit you will consolidate your knowledge from GCSE. You will study atomic structure, chemical calculations, titration along with electrons, bonding and shapes of molecules
Periodic Table and Energy
In this unit you will develop your knowledge of the periodic table considering periodic trends and changes in reactivity. Followed by exploring enthalpy, reaction rate and equilibrium
Core organic Chemistry
In this unit you will learn about different organic molecules. You will study molecules with a variety of different functional groups and start to develop a toolkit of various chemical reactions that can be applied in organic synthesis.
Year 13 Units
Physical chemistry and transition elements
In this unit you will learn about rates of reactions, equilibrium, pH, neutralisation, enthalpy, entropy, redox and transition metal elements.
Organic chemistry and analysis
In this unit you will learn about aromatic chemistry, carbonyl chemistry, amines, amino acids and polymers. In addition you will learn how to develop a synthetic organic route and how to analyse different substances through techniques such as NMR.
sample lesson
STUDENT TESTIMONIAL
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Support sessions
Chemistry study support runs twice a week, this is on a Wednesday and Thursday after school.
This is an opportunity to come and ask questions and get further support with areas of the course.
Higher Education Progression Routes
Degree in chemistry
Essential A-Levels: Chemistry along with another Science or Maths
Useful A-Levels: Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Biology
degree in medicine
Essential A-Levels: Chemistry, Biology and one from Maths or Physics
Useful A-Levels: Further Maths
degree in pharmacy
Essential A-Levels: Chemistry and one from Biology, Maths, Physics
Some of the other degrees that are possible with an A-Level in Chemistry include: Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Science, Chemical Engineering, Dentistry, Environmental Sciences, Geology, Nursing/Midwifery, Optometry, Physiotherapy, Sports Science and Veterinary Science.
Future Careers
pharmaceutical industry
Working in the lab for a pharmaceutical company being involved at different stages of drug development.
Doctor or Dentist
If you want to make a difference to peoples lives by becoming a doctor or dentist a background in Chemistry will help you to achieve this.
Forensic scientist
Use a variety of analytical techniques to help identify substances and support with evidence from crime scenes.
student destinations
Students studying this course in recent years have progressed onto:
Environmental Science at University of Reading
Molecular Bioengineering at Imperial College, London
Medicine at University of Nottingham
Medicine at St George's, University of London
Veterinary Gateway Programme at Royal Veterinary School