Qualification: A Level Chemistry (A2 OCR A)
Course Tutor: Mrs S Hodges, Mrs Egginton, Mrs Ingold
Course entry requirements: General A level entry requirements including two grade 7s at GCSE in Triple Science (one in Chemistry) or Combined Science (Trilogy) AND a Grade 6 in Maths.
Course description
During the first year of the course, you will study the ‘Development of practical skills in Chemistry’, ‘Foundations in Chemistry’, ‘Periodic Table and energy’ and ‘Core Organic Chemistry’.
During the second year of the course, you will study ‘Physical Chemistry and transition elements’ and ‘Organic Chemistry and analysis’.
Throughout the course, there are plenty of opportunities for investigative work. Experiments are carried out in class as often as possible and not only are skills developed, but theoretical concepts are reinforced.
There is a small degree of overlap with Biology (amino acids, proteins, chromatography, buffers, pH, catalysis) and Physics (atomic structure).
A Level Chemistry now includes a 20% mathematical skills and will be assessed within the lifetime of the specification.
Non-Exam Assessment
This is a teacher-assessed component. Candidates complete a minimum of 12 practical activities to demonstrate their practical competence. Their performance is reported separately to the A level grade.
Examination
A Level is covered by three examinations taken at the end of the course:
2 x 2 hours 15 minutes and 1 x 1 hour 30 minutes
A wide range of question types are included:
- Multiple choice
- Short answer
- Extended response
Post-18 Opportunities and Employment
A-level Chemistry qualifications are highly regarded at Universities. It is essential for a career in medicine, veterinary science, forensics, pharmacy and degree courses in nursing. It is useful in careers as diverse as engineering and catering. Entry qualifications for Chemistry based degrees are generally quite low and there is a high demand for qualified chemists.
If you would like more detailed information about the content of this course, please visit the Science curriculum page, where you will find curriculum maps for each year of study.
