National 5 Chemistry

Chemistry is everywhere. From the burning of petrol in a car engine, to the digestion of food in your body. From fireworks displays, to the manufacture of fertilisers. There is no escape. Studying chemistry will help you find out how these processes happen.

A qualification in chemistry is essential if you wish to study medicine, veterinary medicine or dentistry. It is essential or recommended if you wish to study a chemistry related subject in higher education such as environmental science, biology, food science, geology, chemical engineering or pharmacy.

The course consists of three Units:

• Chemical changes and structure

In this area, topics covered are: rates of reaction; atomic structure and bonding related to properties of materials; formulae and reacting quantities; acids and bases.

• Nature’s Chemistry

In this area, topics covered are: homologous series; everyday consumer products; energy from fuels.

• Chemistry in society

In this area, topics covered are: metals; plastics; fertilisers; nuclear chemistry; chemical analysis.

The aims of the course are to enable learners to:

• develop and apply knowledge and understanding of chemistry

• develop an understanding of the impact of chemistry on everyday life

• develop an understanding of chemistry’s role in scientific issues and relevant applications of

chemistry, including the impact these could make on society and the environment

• develop scientific inquiry and investigative skills

• develop scientific analytical thinking skills in a chemistry context

• develop the skills to use technology, equipment and materials, safely, in practical scientific activities

• develop planning skills

• develop problem-solving skills in a chemistry context

• use and understand scientific literacy, in everyday contexts, to communicate ideas and issues and

to make scientifically informed choices

• develop the knowledge and skills for more advanced learning in chemistry

• develop skills of independent working

The course will be assessed through a question paper and an assignment, which are marked by SQA and

graded A to D.

• The question paper is worth 100 marks and makes up 83% of the total assessment mark. Learners answer

questions that demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of chemistry, as well as their scientific

inquiry and analytical thinking skills.

• The assignment is worth 20 marks and makes up 17% of the total assessment mark. Learners choose a

topic, with guidance from the teacher, which they must then research and write a report on. They must

carry out an experiment as part of their research.

Homework required

Homework is issued every week and regular revision of 2-3 hours is recommended a week (more when

approaching assessments).