Chemistry

Course summary

Why can you smell pepper, but you can’t smell salt? Why are some elements metals and others non-metals? Can we do anything about global warming? How and why will we be affected when we run out of oil? Why does your bedroom get messy by itself, but not tidy? Since 2015, we have followed the OCR Chemistry A linear specification, which is divided into 6 modules, each covering a key concept in Chemistry. The modules are: Module Both years 1: Development of practical skills in chemistry Year 1 2: Foundations in chemistry 3: Periodic table and energy 4: Core organic chemistry Year 2 5: Physical chemistry and transition elements 6: Organic chemistry and analysis Students take progression exams at the end of Year 1, and subject to a suitable pass grade, can move into Year 2. The staff are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, applying a variety of strategies to help all students. We encourage imaginative, critical and logical thinking for problem-solving and for interpreting and answering text-based questions. Collaborative practical work enables students to learn about Chemistry in a task-based, student-focused and interesting way, supported by lessons where the results of practical work are drawn together and students can learn from each other, as well as from the teacher. The incorporation of practical methods into the learning process enables students to tackle practical assessments more confidently. In addition to these courses, any student applying for Medicine, Veterinary Medicine or Dentistry has the opportunity to join ‘Medsoc’, which helps to prepare students for all aspects of their application.