AS/A2 Chemistry

Why should I study Chemistry at Cardinal Newman College?The sciences at Cardinal Newman are simply outstanding - the best of any College in the area and Chemistry is the most successful of all! Our A Level pass rate is 100% and 77% of our students achieved grades A or B. We offer an excellent enrichment programme which has included tours of Africa, Australia and Iceland in the last three years as well as university tours. Regular study support is provided by teaching staff for all students. A significant number of our Chemistry students continue to study medicine, veterinary science and dentistry at degree level.

Last year seven of our science students progressed to Oxford or Cambridge and many more to the science degree of their choice
What is Chemistry?
Chemistry is everywhere! The whole of our world is made of chemicals. It is the job of chemists to understand the ways in which elements and compounds behave. Chemists use this knowledge to create new materials without which modern society would not exist; medicines, fertilisers, plastics, paints, dyestuffs, artificial fabrics - the list is almost endless.

Chemistry is often described as the central science. It has strong links with biology and physics.
Will I enjoy this course?
Chemistry at A Level is not just about learning facts. Chemistry students must be prepared to think for themselves and apply their knowledge to unfamiliar problems. In lessons students will sometimes work in small teams but frequently on their own. They will learn how to use a range of equipment and chemicals, accurately and safely. Above all students will be encouraged to enjoy and succeed on a demanding and relevant course that is held in high regard by employers and by university admissions officers. You will, obviously, have an interest in Science but will also enjoy working in the laboratory. You will need to be well organised in order to keep up with a structured course including weekly assignments, regular tests and practical work.
What topics will I study?
In the first year you will study:

· Unit 1: Atomic structure, chemical bonding, the periodic table (groups 2 & 7)

· Unit 2: Crude oil, hydrocarbons (alkanes and alkenes), alcohols, halogenoalkanes, 'green chemistry', 'chemistry of the air' (greenhouse effect and ozone layer), enthalpy changes, rates of reaction and chemical equilibrium

· Unit 3: Teacher assessed laboratory practical skills (qualitative, quantitative and evaluative tasks)

In the second year you will study:

· Unit 4: Further organic chemistry including arenes, carbonyl compounds, carboxylic acids, esters, amines, polymers and analysis (chromatography and spectroscopy)

· Unit 5: Rates, equilibrium, pH, energy and transition elements

· Unit 6: Teacher assessed laboratory practical skills (qualitative, quantitative and evaluative tasks)
Is there any practical work?
Yes! Teacher assessed practical skills are included throughout the course.
Progression
Students with an A Level in Chemistry may go on to higher education courses including Chemistry, Biology or Environmental Science. A Level Chemistry is an essential entry qualification for medicine and paramedical careers such as dentistry, pharmacy and dietetics. The knowledge and skills gained in this A Level will benefit students entering virtually any career.