The A Level Chemistry program is an exciting and rigorous course designed to equip pupils with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles and applications of chemistry. This course is offered to empower students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their academic pursuits and beyond.

 

The course is structured to offer a balanced combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experimentation, ensuring pupils gain a holistic understanding of the subject. It encompasses a wide range of topics, including atomic structure, bonding, energetics, organic chemistry, thermodynamics, kinetics, and more. Through engaging lessons, pupils delve into the intricacies of these topics, fostering a deep understanding of how chemical systems function and interact.

 

The Chemistry program consists of three externally examined papers and the Science Practical Endorsement. Pupils have the opportunity to engage in practical experiments that align with the sixteen core practical experiments specified in the curriculum.

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Paper 1: Advanced Inorganic and Physical Chemistry

This paper focuses on the following topics:

• Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table

• Bonding and Structure

• Redox I

• Inorganic Chemistry and the Periodic Table

• Formulae, Equations, and Amounts of Substance

• Energetics I

• Equilibrium I and II

• Acid-base Equilibria

• Energetics II

• Redox II

• Transition Metals

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Assessment Overview:

• Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes

• Total marks: 90

• Question types: multiple-choice, short open, open-response, calculations, and extended writing questions

• Mathematics at Level 2 or above will account for a minimum of 20% of the marks across the three papers.

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Paper 2: Advanced Organic and Physical Chemistry

This paper covers the following topics:

• Bonding and Structure

• Redox I

• Formulae, Equations, and Amounts of Substance

• Organic Chemistry I, II, and III

• Modern Analytical Techniques I and II

• Kinetics I and II

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Assessment Overview:

• Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes

• Total marks: 90

• Question types: multiple-choice, short open, open-response, calculations, and extended writing questions

• Mathematics at Level 2 or above will account for a minimum of 20% of the marks across the three papers.

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Paper 3: General and Practical Principles in Chemistry

This paper encompasses questions from various topics covered in the curriculum. It includes synoptic questions that may draw on multiple topics. Additionally, it assesses conceptual and theoretical understanding of experimental methods, building on pupils’ experiences with core practicals.

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Assessment Overview:

• Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

• Total marks: 120

• Question types: short open, open-response, calculations, and extended writing questions

• Mathematics at Level 2 or above will account for a minimum of 20% of the marks across the three papers.

• Some questions will evaluate conceptual and theoretical understanding of experimental methods.

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Science Practical Endorsement

The Science Practical Endorsement is an essential component of the Chemistry program. It provides pupils with practical skills and an understanding of experimental methods. The endorsement acknowledges pupils’ proficiency in conducting experiments and assessing their outcomes.

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By participating in the Pearson Edexcel A Level Chemistry program, pupils gain a solid foundation in chemistry, develop critical thinking skills, and acquire valuable knowledge applicable to various scientific disciplines.