Chemistry

Chemistry offers the opportunity to explore further some of the wonders of the natural world. A fundamental part of Science, Chemistry is the link between Biology, Physics and other subjects, such as Geology, Geography, Medicine, and Engineering. An oversimplified definition of Chemistry states that it is the study of the substances, their properties, structure and the changes they undergo. In modern times Chemistry has grown and includes many branches, such as Organic and Inorganic Chemistry, Electrochemistry, Physical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Materials Science, Drug discovery and Environmental Chemistry.

We use chemistry in everyday life, from the food we eat, to the air we breathe, to the water we drink, to the latest gadgets in our day-to day life. AS Chemistry provides grounding in the basic principles that underpin chemistry and it applies them to the world and its resources. This is done through a combination of practical and theoretical investigations.
A2 Chemistry uses the basic principles put already in place and knowledge is built up to include Further Organic Chemistry, Further Physical and Further Inorganic Chemistry.

Chemistry is a subject that involves imagination, intelligence, ability to link and interpret information and laboratory skills. It develops practical and analytical skills and provides opportunities for research into and evaluation of existing theories and techniques. In short, chemistry is stimulating, challenging, satisfying and fun.
A good grounding in Chemistry is essential for AS- preferably an A or B at GCSE level - along with a lively curiosity and an active imagination.

To progress onto A2 Chemistry, it is important that you have satisfactorily completed AS Chemistry.
AS: Module 1 - Foundation Chemistry: Atomic Structure, Equations and Calculations, Bonding, Periodicity, Introduction to Organic Chemistry.

Module 2 - Chemistry in Action: Energetics, Kinetics, Equilibria, Redox Reactions, Halogens, Alkaline Earth Metals, Extraction of metals, More Organic Chemistry.

Module 3 - Investigative and Practical Skills or Externally Marked Practical Assessments

A2: Module 4 - Reaction kinetics, Equilibria, Acids and Bases, Further Organic Chemistry and Structure Analysis.

Module 5 - Thermodynamics, Periodicity, Redox Equilibria, Transition Metals and Reactions of Inorganic Compounds in Aqueous solutions and synoptic questions to cover all AS and A2 Chemistry.

Module 6 - Investigative and Practical Skills or Externally Marked Practical Assessment

Exam Board - AQA.
AS is assessed with two written theory examination papers, sat in June, involving long and short answer questions. During the year practical and investigation skills are assessed both in general and through specific tasks and a written paper.

1A students performing test tube reactions to identify aldehydes and ketones
1A students performing test tube reactions to identify aldehydes and ketones

A2 consists of two written examination papers in June. They involve short and long answer questions. During the year practical and investigation skills are assessed both in general and through specific tasks and a written paper.

1A students and teacher performing test tube reactions to transition metal ions
1A students and teacher performing test tube reactions to transition metal ions
Chemistry leads to any science career. The ability to demonstrate analytical and scientific thinking is of value in most career paths.

Chemistry will be helpful for researchers, engineers, doctors, veterinary surgeons, geneticians, pharmacists, pharmacologists, the list is endless.

Chemistry is the gateway to many different career pathways, such as Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Veterinary Science, Biochemistry, Engineering, Forensic Science, Environmental Science and many others.
1. AQA Chemistry AS Chemistry Nelson Thornes, Ted Lister, Janet Renshaw
2. AQA Chemistry A2 Chemistry Nelson Thornes, Ted Lister, Janet Renshaw
3. AS Chemistry for AQA Collins, Peter Harwood
4. A2 Chemistry for AQA Collins, Peter Harwood
5. AS Chemistry Student Support Materials for AQA- Unit 1 and Unit 2
6. A2 Chemistry Student Support Materials for AQA- Unit 4 and Unit 5
7. www.rsc.org
8. www.rsc.org/Education/EiC/index.asp