Chemistry A-Level

AQA Chemistry 2420

Chemistry and its potential
The study of A Level Chemistry can prepare the student for the following options:

• To follow a degree course in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Veterinary Medicine, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Medicine and Pharmacy. These are a few of the courses with direct links, but the UCAS website (www.ucas.com) and handbook gives further guidance as to other possibilities.
• To follow a Higher National Programme in Chemical Science or other related programmes.
• To enter employment in the areas of Pharmacy, Biochemistry and Biotechnology and other related areas.

Aims of the Advanced Chemistry Course
The qualification aims to:

• Stimulate and sustain students' interest in, and enjoyment of, Chemistry.
• Enable students to gain knowledge and an understanding of Chemistry appropriate to AS/A Level.
• Show the inter-relationship between the development of the subject and its application in society today (social, economic, environmental and technological).
• Recognise the value of chemistry to society and how it may be used responsibly.
• Develop students' skills in laboratory procedures and techniques.
• Develop students' ability to acquire knowledge by means of practical work, and to integrate theory and practical work.
• Provide opportunities for students to bring together knowledge of how different areas of chemistry relate to each other and to appreciate the interlinking patterns which are a distinguishing feature of the subject.

Entry Requirements
The qualification builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills developed at GCSE. It is expected that students will have achieved at least a grade B at GCSE in Chemistry or Science Dual Award. Students will be expected to be able to work independently, communicate effectively, research and think critically about chemical problems.
This qualification is suitable for students who:

• Have an interest in, and enjoyment of, Chemistry.
• Enjoy the application of imaginative, logical and critical thinking.
• Want to use Chemistry to support other qualifications or progress onto further studies.

Course structure, content and assessment
AS (1421)
Unit 1 - CHEM1 Foundation Chemistry

• Atomic structure
• Amount of substance
• Bonding
• Periodicity
• Introduction to Organic Chemistry.

Examination paper: 1 hour 15 minutes, available January and June.

Unit 2 - CHEM2 Chemistry in Action

• Energetics
• Kinetics
• Equilibria
• Redox reactions
• Group II & VII
• Extraction of metals
• Further Organic Chemistry.

Examination paper: 1 hour 45 minutes, available January and June.

Unit 3 - Internal Assessment Investigative and Practical Skills in AS Chemistry
Centre Marked Assessment including Practical Skills Assessment (PSA) and Investigative Skills Assignment (ISA).
June entry.

A2 (2421)
Unit 4 - CHEM4 Kinetics, Equilibria and Organic Chemistry

• Kinetics
• Equilibria
• Acids & Bases
• Nomenclature and Isomerism in Organic Chemistry
• Further Organic Chemistry.

Examination paper: 1 hour 45 minutes, available January and June.

Unit 5 - CHEM5 Energetics, Redox and Inorganic Chemistry

• Thermodynamics
• Periodicity
• Redox Equilibria
• Transition Metals
• Aqueous Inorganic Chemistry.

Examination paper: 1 hour 45 minutes, available January and June.

Unit 6 - Internal Assessment Investigative and Practical Skills in A2 Chemistry
Centre Marked Assessment including PSA and ISA, June entry.

For more detail see the full specification at  the AQA website

Back to Science Department Homepage

Back to Sixth Form Academic Departments Homepage