AS/A Level Chemistry

AS/A LEVEL CHEMISTRY

WHAT IS CHEMISTRY?
The Chemistry course at Prior Pursglove College is based on the AQA Chemistry Specification. This leads on naturally from the Additional Science and Chemistry courses studied at GCSE level, and enables students to maintain continuity in their learning.

WHY SHOULD I STUDY CHEMISTRY?
Chemistry is the science of the material world. It is concerned with the structure and interaction of all the matter in the universe whether animal, vegetable or mineral. It offers, therefore, unlimited scope to people who want to understand and contribute to further developments in our use and conservation of the materials around us. Chemistry occupies a central position among the basic sciences. On the one hand it is linked with physics through physical chemistry and on the other with biology through biochemistry. Life depends basically on chemical reactions. Chemistry is therefore fundamental to physiology and to medicine. It plays an important part in the development of such sciences as geology and it underlies many branches of technology such as atomic energy, metallurgy, fuel technology and chemical engineering.

What any modern employer needs at the professional level is a person with a capable and critical mind. The mental discipline and training which a chemistry degree imposes is of value in any further employment. As well as in the chemical industry, chemistry graduates are successful in other professions such as accountancy, marketing and taxation. Clearly an important route to such varied and interesting careers is via AS and A level chemistry courses. Although there are plenty of topics to keep a student busy, the workload is not unreasonable. There is plenty of time for the enjoyment of other pursuits and we value and appreciate the student with well developed outside interests. At Prior Pursglove College we hope to provide a sound education in the subject as well as a solid and reliable stepping stone to higher things.

USEFUL SKILLS & INTERESTS
The most important requirements for Chemistry are a real interest in the subject and a determination to work hard and develop good study skills.

COURSE STRUCTURE & CONTENT
The courses provide an excellent grounding in the basic theoretical principles of the subject as well as providing opportunities to explore the role of Chemistry in modern society. Familiar topics for study and further development include:

• Atomic Structure and Bonding
• Energy Changes in Reactions
• Metal Extraction and Oil Refining
• Reaction Rates
• Periodic Table

New topics, probably met for the first time at A level, include:

• Equlibrium Reactions
• Spectroscopic Methods of Analysis
• Properties and Reactions of Organic Compounds
• Transition Metal Chemistry

The specification provides plenty of opportunities for students to consider and discuss values and attitudes concerned with the contribution that Chemistry makes to modern society:

• Catalytic Converters
• Recycling of Metals
• Plasticisers and food flavourings
• Anti-cancer drugs
• Explosives and Dyes
• Biodegradability of plastics

The College has always emphasized the importance of experimental work and our students are thoroughly trained in the skills required by universities and industry. Practical coursework assesses your:

• Ability to work precisely, accurately and safely
• Ability to make and record reliable observations and readings
• Ability to analyse, interpret and explain results

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
The courses is modular and will lead to the AS qualification in Year 1 (3 modules) and then the full A level in Year 2 (after the final 3 modules). Practical Work comprises 20% of the full A Level specification and is assessed as one module both in the AS year and in the A2 year.

COURSE COMMITMENT
Students will be expected to work independently, outside the classroom, for about four hours per week. This will allow time to complete assignments set in class as well as to review current work regularly and revise for the external examinations.

COURSE COSTS
You will need a scientific calculator which can be purchased for less than 10 at college or any stationers.

PROGRESSION ROUTES
Chemistry can be combined with almost any other AS or A level subject. The most common groupings are with Physics, Maths, Biology, Statistics, Computing or Geology, but some students follow the subject alongside Economics, Languages, English, Art and the Humanities.

The United Kingdom has a large and flourishing chemical industry and chemistry graduates are needed at all levels, from research to the technical development, marketing and managerial areas of this industry. Chemistry graduates are also in demand for their specialist knowledge in many other areas of employment. While Chemistry is essential for medical and many paramedical courses, students can go on to careers in Law, Business, Computing and Languages as well as the more obvious engineering and scientific fields.