NCEA Level 3 Chemistry

Aims

To build on the understanding of chemical concepts gained at Level 2, and to provide an opportunity to examine the impact of chemistry on the everyday world.

Course Content

The course follows the Chemistry in the New Zealand Curriculum document along with the NCEA Level 3 prescription. Topics include:

  • Atomic Structure and Bonding

  • Energy Changes

  • Organic Substances

  • Oxidation, Reduction, and Electrochemical Cells

  • Solubility and Acid-base Equilibria

Extension opportunities are available for those students wishing to undertake the Scholarship examination.

Assessment

There are a variety of assessment tasks and school examinations. Externally assessed topics are examined nationally at the end of the year.

Qualifications gained

Full course completion — 21 credits in NCEA Chemistry Level 3

Prior knowledge required

Of the five compulsory Level 2 Chemistry achievement standards, students must have achieved a minimum of two external assessments and one internal assessment. Students who have not reached this level of achievement will be considered on a case by case basis in consultation with the HoD and the Year Level Dean. Achievement in formal tests and school examinations will be taken into consideration.

Next Step

Many tertiary qualifications including — Bachelor Degrees in Science, Nursing, Technology, Medicine, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Chemical Engineering and Diplomas in many scientific areas.