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Chemistry

Is this course for me?
Are you keen, self-motivated and interested in finding out more about today's fast-moving, technologically oriented industry? Do you enjoy applying your knowledge through practical work and have an analytical mind? If you have answered yes to both questions, A level chemistry is for you! Chemistry is a basis for many higher education courses. Furthermore, by taking chemistry you also develop useful skills that can be applied outside of the subject discipline; these include problem solving, numeracy, practical skills as well as developing a broad scientific background. As a result, chemistry is a highly respected and useful qualification for most higher education courses and areas of employment.

What qualifications do I need?
You will need the general college requirements as well as a grade 6 or higher in GCSE Science and GCSE Maths. It is also advisable to study mathematics at A level or the Core Maths qualification.

What does the course involve?
This course is uniquely different from other A level chemistry courses because it studies chemistry in the context of everyday applications. It introduces a chemical topic in one unit and then re-visits the same topic later in the course, developing theories further and allowing student learning to mature. Students will develop their practical expertise in all areas of chemistry which includes making polymers and aspirin.

Year 1:
Elements for life
Developing fuels
Elements from the sea
The ozone story
What's in a medicine?


Year 2:

The chemical industry
Polymers and life
Oceans
Developing metals
Colour by design

How will my work be assessed?
A level - OCR B H433
Paper 1 -Fundamentals of chemistry. 2hrs 15 mins written exam (41%).
Paper 2-Scientific literacy in chemistry. 2hrs 15 mins written exam (37%).
Paper 3 -Practical skills in chemistry. 1hr 30 mins written exam (22%).
Practical endorsement for chemistry.
Internally assessed non-examinable (0%).

What can I do afterwards?
Chemistry A level is important for anyone thinking of studying degree courses in science subjects such as chemistry, biological sciences, chemical engineering, medicine, veterinary science, dentistry, geology, healthcare, sports science, nutrition, pharmacy and teaching. Other opportunities are considerable since chemistry is so well regarded by universities and employers. Students graduating from university with a chemistry related degree can also find employment in areas as diverse as law and management consultancy.