Chemistry

EXAM SPECIFICATION: OCR H432                                                       https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-and-a-level/chemistry-a-h032-h432-from-2015/ 

Chemistry is a challenging subject which attempts to explain and predict the behavior of materials in the world around us. These insights are gained by applying a wide range of concepts at the level of the particles which make up the material. There is a genuine sense of achievement for students who can link complex ideas and apply them with confidence to unfamiliar scenarios.

View the PowerPoint below to get an overview of the course.  Click on the speakers for an explanation from the Head of Subject, Mr Kirk.

STUDENT VIDEO: Current Yr 13 student, Isabel McManus, describes what it's like to study A Level Chemistry.  

The Powerpoint below summarises feedback obtained from Yr 12 students who have just completed the first seven weeks of the A-level course.

COURSE STRUCTURE

Year 12

Module 1 - Development of Practical Skills in Chemistry

Module 2 - Foundations in Chemistry

Module 3 - Periodic Table and Energy

Module 4 - Core Organic Chemistry

Year 13

Module 1 - Development of Practical Skills in Chemistry

Module 5 - Physical Chemistry and Transition Elements

Module 6 - Organic Chemistry and Analysis

Skills

• Solid mathematical grounding.
• Ability and curiosity to work with abstract concepts.
• Constant attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively within a team environment.
• Highly motivated in terms of independent study.
• Logical, coherent approach to problem solving which is reflected in quality of written and oral communication.

Examinations

All A-level exams take place at the end of Year 13:

• Paper 1 - Periodic Table, Elements and Physical Chemistry - 2 hours 15 minutes - 100 marks

• Paper 2 - Synthesis and Analytical Techniques - 2 hours 15 minutes - 100 marks

• Paper 3 - Unified Chemistry - 1 hour 30 minutes - 70 marks

• Non-examination assessment of Practical Skills - reported independently of the overall examination grade (Pass or Fail)   

Enrichment

• Lower Sixth Cambridge Chemistry Challenge
• Royal Society of Chemistry Olympiad

For further details, please contact Mr Kirk, Head of Chemistry ekirk@bishopstopford.com