Chemistry A-Level

Subject: Chemistry

Qualification Level: A Level

Qualification Duration: 2 years

Exam Board: OCR A

Overview:

OCR A level Chemistry provides you with a good understanding of key chemical concepts. Areas covered include organic chemistry, atomic structure, enthalpy, entropy and free energy calculations, intra- and inter- molecular forces and bonding, the environmental impact and sustainability of chemical processes and the study of different analytical techniques such as NMR and IR spectroscopy. You will also develop other qualities such as problem solving, data interpretation and develop practical skills. Chemistry at A level is essential if you are considering medicine, veterinary science or dentistry.

Year 1 content:

Your study will look at many aspects of Chemistry which develops further topics learned at GCSE Science and Chemistry:

1. Development of practical skills in chemistry
2. Foundations in chemistry
3. The periodic table and energy
4. Core organic chemistry

Year 2 content:

The A level course will continue, assuming knowledge of the four units listed in year 1, plus 2 additional units:

5. Physical chemistry and transition elements
6. Further organic chemistry and analysis

There will be 3 written exams taken in June of Year 13.

The assessment of practical work will be included both in the written exams and through a Practical Endorsement. This will assess students’ practical capabilities throughout the course and is issued alongside the A level grade as a Pass or Fail.

Career and further study:

You could progress to higher level study such as a medicine, dentistry, materials science, chemical and other engineering, nanotechnology, biochemistry, forensic and environmental science, pharmacy or drug design, brewing. This subject is also highly respected by a wide variety of sectors such as marketing, accountancy and finance organisations, due to the higher problem solving skills you will develop.