Chemistry

Exam Board:OCR

What is this subject about?
Chemistry is the study of the elements and their compounds and brings together elements of Physics and Biology. Chemical principles underpin the physical environment in which we live, and all biological systems. In this course you will learn chemical concepts which are introduced within a relevant context enabling you to develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of chemistry and how they relate to each other. It is uniquely different from other A level specifications because it starts from applications and develops the theory as required. You will be introduced to chemical topics in one unit and then revisit them in later units, so that your learning has a chance to mature and be reinforced.
For the AS level you will study:
In your first year you will begin by studying chemical theories relating to the study of elements and compounds in the universe, the solar system and the human body - this is a bridging unit between GCSE and AS level. You will also study the chemistry of fuels and the contribution that chemists make to the development of better and greener fuels; how the halogens are extracted from minerals in the sea together with a study of the properties and use of Group 7; the important chemical processes occurring in the atmosphere - the ozone layer and the greenhouse effect; the development of addition polymers. You will also carry out five practical assessments.
For the A2 level you will study:
Medicines such as aspirin, their development, chemistry and synthesis, illustrating some of the features of the pharmaceutical industry; condensation polymers and other modern materials; proteins and enzymes as well as DNA and its use in synthesising proteins; an account of the production, properties and use of steel, with reference to other metals; how chemists use industrial processes to benefit mankind and how they contribute towards a safe and efficient food supply; the chemical basis of colour in pigments, paints and the use of chemistry to provide colours to order; the role of the oceans in re-cycling chemicals, including salts and carbon dioxide, and maintaining pH and the importance of the oceans to life on Earth; an account of the way chemical processes and techniques are used to investigate the effect of chemicals on the body as well as the design and use of pharmaceuticals to meet specific needs. You will also carry out an Individual Investigation when you will work for 18 hours in the laboratory to solve an experimental problem.
How is the course assessed?
Over the two years, practical coursework is worth 20% and written examinations are worth 80%.
What skills will I need and develop in this course?
You will need numerical, problem solving and communication skills, which you will develop further. You will also develop your practical and research skills - i.e. how to find relevant scientific information, analyse and evaluate scientific data.
Subject combination advice:
We strongly advise you to take Maths and another science subject (Biology if you are considering medicine) as many science degree courses related to Chemistry require Maths and two sciences at the top universities.
What can the course lead to in terms of higher education and future careers?
This course is an excellent foundation and essential for further study of chemistry, chemical engineering, medicine, veterinary science, dentistry, physiotherapy and related subjects such as pharmacy, pharmacology and biomedical sciences and highly recommended for other sciences. This course also provides a valuable education if you take chemistry no further but wish to pursue a career in, for example, finance, publishing, patent law.
What are the formal entry requirements for this course?
Aside from the general entry criteria that the College requires, you will also need to achieve at least a minimum C grade in GCSE Maths and either CC grades in GCSE Science and Additional Science or a C grade for GCSE Chemistry. All these subjects must have been studied at Higher level rather than Foundation level. GCSE's in Applied Science and / or Additional Applied Science do not give a suitable foundation for this course.
What extra support / enrichment activities are on offer?
You will be encouraged to attend the lunch time chemistry clinics or scheduled subject tutorials for assistance when required. We encourage students to attend a Chemistry Lecture day held at the University of London as well as any other lectures that might enable you to extend your knowledge and interest in chemistry beyond the syllabus. We try to arrange for you to spend a day at a university to get hands-on experience with various spectroscopic techniques that are not available at the College. You will also be alerted to attend relevant taster courses, especially those related to chemistry, medicine, veterinary science and dentistry.
Why should I consider taking an A level in Chemistry?
It will enable you to develop a wide range of transferable skills. It will also help develop your interest and enthusiasm for chemistry, including developing your interest in further study and careers in chemistry. It helps you appreciate how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society. It will help develop and demonstrate a deeper appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of how science works.