Why Chemistry?
Chemistry is an interesting and varied course, covering a diverse range of topics, from the study of the simplest structures, such as the atom, to a wide range of materials such as polymers. It also covers many topical issues, for example Green Chemistry. It is useful, indeed usually necessary to study A level Chemistry for careers in medicine, veterinary science, nursing, agriculture, food science, forensic science and chemical engineering , to name but a few.
Course overview
We follow the OCR GCE Chemistry A specification, comprising the following units:
Unit 1 Atoms, Bonds and Groups
Basic topics such as atomic structure, calculations, bonding and structure, acids, redox and the periodic table are covered.
Unit 2: Chains, Energy and Resources
Topics include organic chemistry, analytical techniques, enthalpy changes, rates, equilibrium and green chemistry
Unit 3: Practical Skills in Chemistry 1
This unit assesses practical skills through a series of course work assignments carried out in class .
Unit 4: Rings, Polymers and Analysis
Topics include more organic chemistry and more analytical techniques
Unit 5: Equilibria, Energetics and Elements
Topics include more on rates and equilibria, acids, bases and buffers, energetics and transition elements.
Unit 6: Practical Skills in Chemistry 2
As Unit 3.
Assessment
Units 1, 2, 4 and 5 are assessed by written examination. Units 3 and 6 are assessed throughout the year in class.
Beyond A Level
Chemistry is so highly respected as a challenging and demanding subject that it opens the doors to a very large number of careers, especially in the scientific world. It is also welcomed in the world of commerce, banking and management. If students wish to study Chemistry beyond A Level, and many do from The Abbey School, the choice of institution is limited if mathematics is not studied. With a number of university chemistry departments closing, the demand for graduates in this subject is going to grow enormously.