Chemistry A level

For entry into the Sixth Form to study 3 A' Levels, students are required to achieve 5 grades at 9-5 (or where applicable A*-C) including English Language and Mathematics at Grade 4 or above.

In exceptional cases, students that do not reach the entry criteria based on their attainment in English or mathematics will be admitted to the 6th form with the addition of GCSE retake classes in the appropriate subject to their timetable. This based on 6th form discretion.

While we would encourage students to study 3 A levels, in exceptional cases and following conversation at interview we may support a student to study 4. All students will have the option to study for Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) alongside their A levels.

A grade 6 is recommended in any subject that a student wishes to continue at A Level. Students are welcome to discuss entry criteria for specific subjects and to ensure that their subject choices match their goals and aspirations.

Students wishing to study Mathematics require a grade 6 and in Further Maths require a Grade 7 in the subject at GCSE.

A level Chemistry - OCR A H032 & H432

Chemistry A – A flexible approach where the specification is divided into topics, each covering different key concepts of chemistry. Teaching of practical skills is integrated with the theoretical topics and they’re assessed both through written papers and, for A level only, the Practical Endorsement.

Course outline:

Module 1 – development of practical skills in chemistry

• Practical skills assessed in a written examination
• Practical skills assessed in the practical endorsement

Module 2 – foundations in chemistry

• Atoms, compounds molecules and equations
• Amount of substance
• Acid-base and redox reactions
• Electrons, bonding and structure

Module 3 – periodic table and energy

• The periodic table and periodicity
• Group 2 and the halogens
• Qualitative analysis
• Enthalpy changes
• Reaction rates and equilibrium (qualitative)

Module 4 – Core organic chemistry

• Basic concepts
• Hydrocarbons
• Alcohols and halogenoalkanes
• Organic synthesis
• Analytical techniques (IR and MS)

Module 5 – physical chemistry and transition elements (A-level)

• Reaction rates and equilibrium (quantitative)
• pH and buffers
• Enthalpy, entropy and free energy
• Redox and electrode potentials
• Transition elements

Module 6 – organic chemistry and analysis

• Aromatic compounds
• Carbonyl compounds
• Carboxylic acids and esters
• Nitrogen compounds
• Polymers
• Organic synthesis
• Chromatography and spectroscopy (NMR)

Assessment:

To complete an A Level in this subject it is necessary to achieve a Grade 5 at GCSE, although we strongly advise that students should be looking at achieving at least a Grade 6 at GCSE to have a secure platform for entry on to the course.

Where can Chemistry lead you?
Chemistry is an extremely rewarding A level that combines well with Biology, Physics, Maths, Environmental Studies and Geography to lead to over 65 different university courses covering Medicine & Dentistry, Medical Sciences, Material & Engineering Sciences and Environmental & Geological Sciences, together with the variety of biological/physical and chemical Sciences. Students have also progressed on to Economics, Accountancy, Physiotherapy, Food science, Operational research, Education, Banking, Computing, Business Studies, Insurance, Nursing and Military careers etc.