Chemistry

Course summary

Chemistry is studied in three main branches: Physical, Organic and Inorganic. Physical Chemistry considers how matter interacts, why chemical reactions happen and how they can be controlled. Organic Chemistry considers the study of carbon- containing compounds. There are an enormous number of organic compounds, many of which are essential to the processes of life. Inorganic Chemistry considers the elements of the Periodic Table and their compounds. The study of inorganic chemistry relies on patterns and predicting trends. The mathematical demands of the Higher Level course require confidence with numeracy. The IB Diploma course contains 11 topics studied at the Standard Level, with all of these extended at Additional Higher Level. These topics cover all three branches of Chemistry. The course is assessed by 2 papers at the end of the second year plus an Individual Investigation worth 20% of the final mark. In addition to the examined content you are required to complete a number of hours of practical work. Chemistry is a subject of global impact. It has a profound effect on our planet, is involved at some level in almost every aspect of everyday life and plays a vital role in a technological society. The IB group 4 (science) courses aim, among other things, to provide you with opportunities for scientific study and creativity within a global context that will stimulate and challenge you. This will enable you to apply and use a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterise modern science and technology. In addition to learning concepts, and developing manipulative skills and powers of analysis, you will become aware of the worldwide moral, social, environmental and economic implications of the developments of science. In this way you will be equipped for further study, or to be scientifically literate, responsible global citizens. There are many opportunities to get involved in additional activities. Why not come along to the Sixth Form Science Society, help out with the KS3 Science Club, or offer to Mentor a younger student in their studies (which can count towards CAS hours). For the potential medics and vets we run a regular Medical Society for you to meet, discuss experiences and debate current topics with fellow students aiming for similar courses. In addition to your classroom studies you will need to complete an Individual Investigation on a topic of your choice. You will also need to complete a 4000 word Extended Essay. If you choose to write about a Chemistry related subject, you will also be expected to carry out some form of practical/ analytical work. You will undertake a 10 hour project with students studying other Group 4 subjects. This will provide you with an opportunity to collaborate with others on a joint task. There are many opportunities to get involved in additional activities. Why not come along to the Sixth Form Science Society, help out with the KS3 Science Club or offer to mentor a younger student in their studies? There are opportunities to extend knowledge and skills by competing in the RSC Chemistry Olympiad (in Year 12 and 13) as well as taking part in the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge in Year 12. We run a Medical Society for you to meet, discuss and debate the requirements of these careers. We have visiting speakers who present their research and talk about careers such as Pharmacy. Many students subscribe to Chemistry Review for extra reading. We also run a visit to Bath University when we analyse aspirin that you will synthesize in your lessons. You will use the state of the art spectroscopy machines that they have at the university.