Chemisty

What will be taught?

Chemistry is part of the suite of exams under the ‘New Science for 2006’ banner.  It is the study of the molecular world around us and integrated into this study is an understanding of ‘how science works’.  We all eat, drink and breathe chemicals; we are all clothed in chemicals; our world is made up of chemicals.  Chemistry is the study of the molecular processes and materials that we use in society.

Chemistry 1
Chemicals from the earth
Metals and their extraction
Materials from oil                        
Atmospheric chemistry

Chemistry 2
Atoms and matter
Chemical calculations
Energy in reactions
Electrolysis

Chemistry 3
The Periodic table
Acids and alkalis
Energy calculations
Chemical analysis

 

How will it be taught?

The teaching will be by a variety of methods in three periods a week. There will be practical work and demonstrations, written notes and printed handouts, videos and molecular models, ICT presentations and animations.

Practical work is an important part of this subject and the theoretical work is complimented by experimental tasks, which teach observation, recording and interpretation of evidence.  The importance of safe working practices is emphasised throughout.

How will it be examined?

The GCSE Chemistry course involves an examination in each of the subject areas: Chemistry 1, Chemistry 2 and Chemistry 3.  These, allied to the practical-based assessments, contribute 25% each towards the final mark. Module 1 will be examined at the end of the Fourth Year and there will be an opportunity to retake this paper, if necessary, at the end of the Fifth Year.  The practically-based assessed coursework is designed to be completed in its entirety within supervised lesson time.  A number of practical tasks are done in class time and one of these must be submitted to the examiner.