A Level Chemistry

Chemistry ought to be not for chemists alone – Miguel de Unamuno (novelist and philosopher)

Exam board: OCR

Many of the world’s problems require the study of chemistry. Students of the current generation must take on this chemical challenge. Chemistry is an interesting and demanding subject that gives many transferable skills. The course covers a wide variety of theoretical content but also focuses on developing practical skills to a high standard. This course will help students gain a better understanding of the world around them.

Module 1 – Development of practical skills in chemistry (Developed throughout 2 year course)

Practical skills, developed throughout the course while conducting practical assessments.

Module 2 – Foundations in chemistry (Year 1)

Module 3 – Periodic table and energy (Year 1)

Module 4 – Core organic chemistry (Year 1)

Module 5 – Physical chemistry and transition elements (Year 2)

Module 6 – Organic chemistry and analysis (Year 2)

Assessment

Chemistry involves three exams and a practical endorsement. The practical endorsement is completed during the course.  

Paper 1 – Periodic table, elements and physical chemistry, 100 marks, 2 hours 15 min

Paper 2 – Synthesis and analytical techniques, 100 marks, 2 hours 15 min

Paper 3 – Unified chemistry, 70 marks, 1hour 30min

Career opportunities

Chemistry has a huge number of transferable skills which can be used in a wide range of interesting, stimulating and challenging careers. Students may follow future pathways including: Research, Pharmacy, Veterinary science, Medicine, Teaching, Accounting, Optometry, Physiology.