Chemistry A Level (level 3)
Science and Mathematics


What will you be working towards?
Code | Ch |
Qualification Type | GCE A/AS Level or Equivalent |
Qualification Level | Level 3 |
Course type | Full Time |
Overview
This is a two year course which will result in a single A Level. This can be taken in a combination with other level 3 courses (including A level and vocational).
If taken in combination with two IB courses and a vocational course, students will be taking the IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Pathway).
Details
Topics covered:
Physical chemistry
1 Atomic structure; 2 Amount of substance; 3 Bonding; 4 Energetics; 5 Kinetics; 6 Chemical equilibria, Le Chatelier’s principle and Kc; 7 Oxidation, reduction and redox equations; 8 Thermodynamics; 9 Rate equations;10 Equilibrium constant Kp for homogeneous systems; 11 Electrode potentials and electrochemical cells; 12 Acids and bases
Inorganic chemistry
1 Periodicity; 2 Group 2, the alkaline earth metals; 3 Group 7(17), the halogens; 4 Properties of Period 3 elements and their oxides; 5 Transition metals; 6 Reactions of ions in aqueous solution
Organic chemistry
1 Introduction to organic chemistry; 2 Alkanes; 3 Halogenoalkanes; 4 Alkenes; 5 Alcohols; 6 organic analysis; 7 Optical isomerism; 8 Aldehydes and ketones; 9 Carboxylic acids and derivatives; 10 Aromatic chemistry; 11 Amines; 12 Polymers; 13 Amino acids, proteins and DNA; 14 Organic synthesis; 15 Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy; 16 chromatography
How will it be delivered?
100% Examination.
All students taking A level science will have to complete 12 required practicals in each science subject. Students will be assessed on a range of skills and competencies and will be awarded a pass or fail for these at the end of year 13. Whilst obtaining the practical endorsement will have no effect on the overall grade, universities have informed the exam boards that any student wishing to study science at university will need to pass the practical component of the course. The content and skills covered in the practicals will also be examined in the written papers and so students will need to make sure that they complete all required practicals.
Entry requirements
6 in GCSE chemistry or 6 and 6 in combined sciences and grade 5 in mathematics GCSE are required.
Your next steps...
A Level permits entry into many top universities and other higher educational institutions. Courses to consider are medicine, biochemistry, scientific research and development, pharmacy and teaching.
A Level chemistry is highly regarded by employers and can lead into many professions since it is considered a 'facilitating subject'.