Chemistry A Level
Overview
Studying A/AS level Chemistry provides the next step in understanding the interactions between materials. Most topics, such as atomic structure, bonding, the Periodic Table, energy, rates of reaction and organic chemistry, will be familiar from GCSE but explored in greater detail throughout the course.
Key information
- A minimum of seven GCSEs grade A*-C
- Including Grade B in GCSE English Language, Mathematics (higher tier) and Science.
AS Unit 1 (20% of marks or 50% of AS only)
- Formulae and equations
- Basic ideas about atoms
- Chemical calculations
- Bonding
- Solid structures
- The Periodic Table
- Simple equilibria and acid-base reactions
AS Unit 2 (20% of marks or 50% of AS only)
- Thermochemistry
- Rates of reaction
- The wider impact of chemistry
- Organic compounds
- Hydrocarbons
- Halogenoalkanes
- Alcohols and carboxylic acids
- Instrumental analysis
A2 Unit 3 (25% of marks)
- Redox and standard electrode potential
- Chemistry of the p-block
- Chemistry of the d-block transition metals
- Chemical kinetics
- Enthalpy changes for solids and solutions
- Entropy and feasibility of reactions
- Equilibrium constants
- Acid-base equilibria
A2 Unit 4 (25% of marks)
- Stereoisomerism
- Aromaticity
- Alcohols and phenols
- Aldehydes and ketones
- Carboxylic acids and their derivatives
- Amines
- Amino acids, peptides and proteins
- Organic synthesis and analysis
Unit 5 is practical work included in Units 1-4. (10% of marks)
There are many Chemistry-related degrees available, including Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry and Physical Chemistry and Polymer and Chemical Engineering.
Many of our students go on to study Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science and Pharmacy.
Regular homework, end of topic tests, and mock exams are used to monitor your progress. You will have two lecturers each year.
When carrying out practical work, you are provided with a laboratory coat and safety goggles.
Our strongest chemistry students are entered for the Royal Society of Chemistry Olympiad for sixth form students.