WHY STUDY CHEMISTRY? Students will gain knowledge and an understanding of fundamental chemical concepts in order to explain aspects of contemporary chemistry. Students discover how chemistry works in both academia and industry and will begin to understand the physical world around them at the molecular level. CONTENT OF COURSE: IB Chemistry has a common core for both HL and SL, covering physical, organic and inorganic chemistry. The chemistry curriculum is built on two broad organizing concepts: structure and reactivity. The CLC approach to teaching and learning takes this structure and arranges it to ensure that students have the best possible opportunity to build links between concepts and develop key investigative, analytical and evaluative skills. Experimental work lies at the heart of Chemistry, and we expect students to complete more than the minimum 40 hours of practical work across the course. Students look at the properties of the atom and outline the nature of various types of bonding and structure, leading into the study of the periodic table. Students will investigate the importance of energy changes and kinetics in chemical reactions and then apply the unifying concept of chemical equilibrium to acid-base and redox reactions. Carbon chemistry is introduced through the study of the hydrocarbons followed by alcohols and haloalkanes. This organic topic allows for the introduction of modern analytical techniques. The Higher Level course gives the student an opportunity to study these core aspects in greater detail, expanding on each of the topics met and demanding a greater academic appreciation of the subject matter. All students must undertake an independent research investigation (internally assessed, 3000 words). Internal assessment is an integral part of the course and is compulsory for both SL and HL students. It enables students to demonstrate the application of their skills and knowledge, and to pursue their personal interests, without the time limitations and other constraints that are associated with written examinations. It is possible to work collaboratively on this piece of practical work, but independent reports must be written. All students will participate in the Collaborative Sciences Project – an interdisciplinary activity in which all Group 4 students analyse a topic or problem, which will enable them to appreciate the environmental, social and ethical implications of science.
For entry to the Sixth Form (and UC4), an interview is an absolute requirement and will inform the decision to offer a place or not. While general the interview will seek to explore a candidate's academic and co-curricular interests, attitude to school, personal qualities, and ability to contribute to the College community.
Component: A. Multiple choice B. Longer response, data analysis Length: 1hr 30mins Weighting: 80% combined across both papers Component: Long answer Length: 2hrs 30mins Weighting: 80% combined across both papers Component: Internal assessment: Practical coursework Length: N/A Weighting: 20%
About Education Provider
Region | South West |
Local Authority | Gloucestershire |
Ofsted Rating | |
Gender Type | Girls |
ISI Report | View Report |
Boarding Fee | Day £29,700 - £33,900; Boarding £45,150 - £50,700 |
Sixth Form Fee | Unknown |
Address | Bayshill Road, Cheltenham, GL50 3EP |
WHY STUDY CHEMISTRY? Students will gain knowledge and an understanding of fundamental chemical concepts in order to explain aspects of contemporary chemistry. Students discover how chemistry works in both academia and industry and will begin to understand the physical world around them at the molecular level. CONTENT OF COURSE: IB Chemistry has a common core for both HL and SL, covering physical, organic and inorganic chemistry. The chemistry curriculum is built on two broad organizing concepts: structure and reactivity. The CLC approach to teaching and learning takes this structure and arranges it to ensure that students have the best possible opportunity to build links between concepts and develop key investigative, analytical and evaluative skills. Experimental work lies at the heart of Chemistry, and we expect students to complete more than the minimum 40 hours of practical work across the course. Students look at the properties of the atom and outline the nature of various types of bonding and structure, leading into the study of the periodic table. Students will investigate the importance of energy changes and kinetics in chemical reactions and then apply the unifying concept of chemical equilibrium to acid-base and redox reactions. Carbon chemistry is introduced through the study of the hydrocarbons followed by alcohols and haloalkanes. This organic topic allows for the introduction of modern analytical techniques. The Higher Level course gives the student an opportunity to study these core aspects in greater detail, expanding on each of the topics met and demanding a greater academic appreciation of the subject matter. All students must undertake an independent research investigation (internally assessed, 3000 words). Internal assessment is an integral part of the course and is compulsory for both SL and HL students. It enables students to demonstrate the application of their skills and knowledge, and to pursue their personal interests, without the time limitations and other constraints that are associated with written examinations. It is possible to work collaboratively on this piece of practical work, but independent reports must be written. All students will participate in the Collaborative Sciences Project – an interdisciplinary activity in which all Group 4 students analyse a topic or problem, which will enable them to appreciate the environmental, social and ethical implications of science.
For entry to the Sixth Form (and UC4), an interview is an absolute requirement and will inform the decision to offer a place or not. While general the interview will seek to explore a candidate's academic and co-curricular interests, attitude to school, personal qualities, and ability to contribute to the College community.
Component: A. Multiple choice B. Longer response, data analysis Length: 1hr 30mins Weighting: 80% combined across both papers Component: Long answer Length: 2hrs 30mins Weighting: 80% combined across both papers Component: Internal assessment: Practical coursework Length: N/A Weighting: 20%