Course information
Chemistry
Wilmslow High School - Cheshire East
01625526191
Holly Road, Wilmslow, SK9 1LZ
Course summary

A-level Chemistry is a natural next stage from the GCSE course and so many recognisable topics are taken a stage further. Some topics, such as atomic structure, are studied in greater detail while others, such as equilibria, broaden the GCSE experience and then use mathematics so that the qualitative understanding becomes more quantitative. The biggest content difference at A-level is the great increase in the amount of organic chemistry. This includes many more functional groups, an understanding of the mechanisms of the reactions as well as an understanding of synthetic routes. Throughout the course, principles are developed, revisited, and reinforced. The subject content is relevant to real-world experiences and interesting to learn. Chemistry is fundamentally a practical subject, and there are numerous opportunities to use practical experiences to enhance theory and equip you with accredited practical skills. AQA chemistry is a linear course with terminal examinations at the end of the A-level year. Chemistry is taught through three main subject areas: Physical chemistry: Atomic structure, amount of substance, bonding, energetics, chemical equilibria, redox, thermodynamics, rate equations, electrode potentials, acids, and bases. Inorganic chemistry: Periodicity, groups 2 and 7 of the periodic table, properties of period 3 elements and oxides, transition metals, reactions of ions in aqueous solution Organic chemistry: Introduction to organic chemistry, alkanes, halogenoalkanes, alkenes, alcohols, organic synthesis, optical isomerism, aldehydes and ketones, carboxylic acids, aromatic chemistry, amines, polymers, amino acids, proteins and DNA, nuclear magnetic resonance, chromatography.

Entry requirements

Minimum of five GCSEs (or equivalent) with grades 4-9 (A*-C). This must include at least four full course GCSEs. Minimum of two Grades at 6 in GCSE combined science (dual award) or Grade 6 in GCSE chemistry and Grade 6 in either GCSE biology or physics. In addition a Grade 5 in GCSE mathematics and a Grade 5 in English language or English literature.

How you'll be assessed

Paper 1 (35% of A-level) 2-hour paper, 105 marks, short and long answer questions Physical and inorganic chemistry Some aspects of practical skills Paper 2 (35% of A-level) 2-hour paper, 105 marks, short and long answer questions Physical and organic chemistry Some aspects of practical skills Paper 3 (30% of A-level) 2 hours of paper, 90 marks 40 marks on practical techniques and data analysis, 20 marks testing across the specification, 30 marks multiple choice questions Any content Any practical skills

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionNorth West
Local AuthorityCheshire East
Ofsted RatingGood
Gender TypeCo-Educational
AddressHolly Road, Wilmslow, SK9 1LZ