Chemistry

Chemistry is the study of the properties and reactions of materials. It is sometimes called a central science, because it links the other sciences to each other, such as biology, physics, geology and environmental science. Chemistry is a challenging but rewarding subject at A level. It is also one of the ‘facilitating’ subjects for university entry, which will open a wide range of options for progression to degree level. Chemistry is taught through problem-solving activities that will develop your analytical and evaluative skills.

An A Level in Chemistry can be the starting point for a range of careers – from engineering to healthcare. It’s a highly engaging subject that can lead you to a career in anything from engineering, pharmaceuticals, or medical research to teaching.

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Entry Requirements

GCSE 6/6 in Science or Grade 6 GCSE Chemistry and Grade 5 GCSE Maths.

Content

The AQA A Level has three components:

Component 1:	Physical Chemistry: atomic structure, explaining the properties of materials and exploring why and how particles interact.
Component 2:	Inorganic Chemistry: the chemistry of carbon-containing compounds. Carbon is essential for life due to its versatility – this topic explores its varied chemistry and how it can be manipulated by chemical engineers and biological systems.
Component 3:	Organic Chemistry: the chemistry of materials that do not involve carbon. This topic investigates the Periodic Table including trends, particular elements and their compounds.

In Year One students will study Atomic Structure, Bonding, Oxidation and Chemistry calculations in Physical Chemistry, Alkanes, Halogenoalkanes, Alkenes and Alcohols in Organic Chemistry and Periodicity, Group 2 and Group 7 in Organic Chemistry.

In Year Two students still study Thermodynamic, Equilibria, Electrode, Potentials Acids and Bases in Physical Chemistry, Potentials, Acids and Bases and Carbonyls, Benzene, Amines and Biochemistry in Organic Chemistry.

Assessment

100% Examinations

Students study the full A level and at the end of the two years the course will be assessed with three external examinations.

Am I right for the course?

A Level Chemistry attempts to answer the big question ‘what is the world made of’ and it’s the search for this answer that makes this subject so fascinating. From investigating how one substance can be changed drastically into another, to researching a new wonder drug to save millions of lives, the opportunities that chemistry provides are endless. Studying A Level Chemistry will develop useful skills that can be applied outside the subject discipline; these include problem-solving, numeracy, analysis, practical skills and the development of a broad scientific understanding.

Course Highlights

Hands-on Experience:	Work in well-equipped science laboratories
Personal Development:	Explore and develop your individual scientific practice
Enrichment:	Take part in the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge with other students from across the country.

Where Next?

An A Level in Chemistry is recognised by universities as a rigorous and academic subject that is essential to accessing careers in medicine, dentistry, chemical engineering and forensic science to name but a few. Furthermore, the respect given to Chemistry and the skills it develops and demonstrates can take you almost anywhere.

FAQ's

Do I need Chemistry to be a doctor?
No it's not compulsory, but 97% of medical students do have the A Level so it's highly recommended.
Is it hard?
The topics build on what you studied at GCSE and increase in complexity gradually over the two years. By the end of the course, yes, you will understand topics you would think are very hard now, but you will be amazed at how clever you can be.
Why do I need Maths?
Mathematics is a quantitative language that allows scientists to describe relationships and phenomena objectively. All areas of science make use of Maths, including Chemistry, and you need to be comfortable with numbers to access the course.

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