UNIT 1
Students investigate how the structure and bonding of atoms and molecules explain the diversity and properties of materials. They explore metallic, ionic and covalent structures, examine trends in the periodic table, and analyse the role of carbon in organic chemistry. Students also interpret data from spectroscopy and other analytical techniques. Assessment includes a scientific research investigation, a case study analysis, and a response to a scientific issue using problem- solving skills.
UNIT 2
Students examine chemical reactions, focusing on acid–base chemistry, precipitation, redox and stoichiometry in aqueous solutions. Water is studied as a key solvent in chemical processes. This unit emphasises hands on experimentation and data interpretation. Students undertake a practical investigation with analysis of primary data, complete a data analysis task, and design, investigate and present findings through an experimental design poster. Students continue to develop analytical and inquiry skills and how to communicate scientific ideas effectively.
Practical work is central to assessment and may include laboratory experiments, fieldwork, simulations, and modelling. Tasks cover reports on practical activities with primary data, comparison and evaluation of methodologies, reflective logbook annotations, and summaries of investigations. Students critique experimental designs, analyze primary and secondary data, and engage in problem-solving using chemical concepts. Reports may apply chemistry to real-life contexts or evaluate innovations, research, or socio scientific issues related to sustainability. Assessments can also include infographics, scientific posters, or media analysis responses, fostering understanding and application of chemical knowledge and skills.
UNIT 3
Students explore the ways chemists optimise reaction conditions to increase yield, rate and sustainability. Students investigate equilibrium, reaction rates, and energy transformations, and study electrochemical and electrolytic cells. Emphasis is placed on applying these principles in industrial and environmental contexts. Assessment includes a case study analysis of a the sustainability of a chemical process, a practical investigation with analysis, and they design, investigate and present findings through an experimental design poster report that communicates findings clearly and scientifically.
UNIT 4
Students deepen their understanding of organic chemistry by investigating structure, functional groups, reaction pathways, and the use of analytical techniques such as spectroscopy and chromatography. They apply their knowledge to areas such as pharmaceuticals, fuels, and food chemistry. Assessment includes analysis of data from secondary sources, and a problem-solving task involving application of organic chemistry.
Practical work involving laboratory experiments, simulations, and modelling. Students compare and evaluate chemical concepts, methods, and findings from multiple practical activities. They analyze and evaluate primary and secondary data, considering assumptions and limitations. Problem-solving with calculations applies chemistry skills to real-world contexts. Assessments include analysis of chemical innovations, research, case studies, socio-scientific issues, or media communications. Students also communicate their student-designed investigations through a structured scientific poster and logbook.
The level of achievement for Units 3 and 4 is also assessed by an end-of-year examination.