Chemistry - AS/A Level

CHEMISTRY - AS/A LEVEL

Examination Board: OCR Syllabus AS H034 A H434

CHAS

How long is the course?
The course is divided into AS and A2. Students can take AS over one year or both AS & A2 modules over two years to make up a full A Level.

Cost:
Textbook: AS/A2 approx £45. Optional attendance of the Chemistry Symposium and extensive revision programme approx £30.

Is there an interview?
Yes

What can I progress to?
Higher Education
Employment
Chemistry A Level is a requirement for those students hoping to study medicine, pharmacy and pure chemistry. It is also useful for students studying other sciences at higher levels and those interested in the environment.

Possible Subject Combinations
This course combines well with a variety of other Advanced Level courses. An A Level in Chemistry is regarded as quite an achievement by Higher Education establishments and may be combined with any other A Level subjects.

Extra Curricular Activities
All students can add to their main programme of study by taking part in a wide range of clubs, groups, societies and courses. Not only are the activities fun, they also develop skills and provide new and fulfilling experiences, as well as enhancing applications to Higher Education and employment.

What is the course about?
The course aims to stimulate and sustain students' interest in, and enjoyment of chemistry.

AS Level - Year 1
In the first year or AS Level the course aims to introduce the basic concepts that underpin the whole of chemistry. Atomic structure, bonding and the Periodic table are taught. In the second module the fundamentals of organic chemistry, energetics and chemical kinetics are studied. These topics will be enhanced in the second year of the course. The inclusion of industrial processes provides a chance to study the practical application of chemistry in industry.
Students will develop a set of practical skills which will allow them to carry out practical assignments and give them experience to plan their own practical work.
If students wish to progress to the A2 Level, it will be necessary to obtain a grade D or above at AS Level.

A2 Level - Year 2
In the second year of the course many aspects covered in the first year are developed further. The application of organic chemistry to the manufacture of medicines and polmers is highlighted. Transition metals and their importance in chemical cells is also outlined. A more mathematical treatment is given to many topics to provide meaningful data about the strength of acids, the structure of reactions and the speed at which reactions occur.
Practical assignments provide an exciting challenge to students as they isolate organic chemicals, identify the composition of unknown compounds and design their own practical procedures.

IT Plus
IT Plus is an important element of every programme within the Sixth Form College. All Advanced Level students will enter for the appropriate IT Plus qualification (Level 2/3) during the first year.

Study Skills
As part of Stanmore College's excellent support network, Literacy and Numeracy support is available to any student enrolled on a course, depending on the student's individual needs (determined during Induction by an assessment) Support is provided through the Skills for Life Study Plus Programme. Students can attend either one-to-one or group sessions in a friendly, stimulating and supportive environment.

What are the course outcomes?

How will you be assessed?
Coursework for both the AS/A2 Level work is assessed by the College. Practical design and interpretation of results is examined in short written exams.

AS Level: 3 papers, 10% of paper 3 being assessed by coursework or practical exam.