Content Focus

Students analyse trends and patterns in relation to the properties of pure substances and use these to predict the properties of other pure substances. This knowledge is used to determine the ways in which substances can be separated from each other and those that allow them to remain together.

Matter can be either pure substances with distinct measurable properties (eg melting and boiling points, reactivity, strength, density) or mixtures with properties that are dependent on the identity and relative amounts of the substances that make up the mixture. The analysis of these properties has led to the expansion of the periodic table of elements and the advancement of atomic theory. This understanding has allowed for the development of complex models that have been subject to extensive peer review, and has contributed to advances in many disciplines over time.

Students use knowledge obtained from the study of the periodic table to examine trends and patterns that exist between chemical elements and atoms in order to discover that fundamental particles, and their role in the structure of an atom, give all chemicals their properties.

Working Scientifically

In this module, students focus on: designing, evaluating and conducting investigations; obtaining and processing data in the most appropriate manner; and communicating ideas about the structural, physical and chemical aspects of matter. Students should be provided with opportunities to engage with all Working Scientifically skills throughout the course.

NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) (2017, updated January 2018), Chemistry Stage 6 Syllabus, p. 36. 

Biblical Perspective

In the beginning, God said, “Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters.”  Thus God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament; and it was so. (Genesis 1:6)

Thus, the basis for chemistry was established.  Chemistry is the human study of chemicals and their interactions and reactions.  Water was created by God.  It is a special compound that has unique properties that are arguably designed for a unique purpose.  All elements in the Periodic Table of Elements are designed for a purpose and organised into specific groups and periods.  Chemists and scientists have discovered the patterns that are evident in all elements in the universe.  A chemist who is wise would give glory and praise to the Lord who created all elements for a purpose.