AS / A2 Chemistry

WHY TAKE THIS COURSE?
Touch anything in life and you will be touching Chemistry. From microscopic organisms to distant galaxies; from medical discoveries to volcanic eruptions, Chemistry is central to our understanding of the universe. Chemistry is the only science which is compulsory for medicine.

WHAT WILL I STUDY?
The AS course consists of Foundation Chemistry, Chemistry in Action and Investigative and Practical Skills. The A2 course will build on the AS Material e.g. kinetics, equilibria, organic chemistry, energetics, redox and inorganic chemistry and further investigative and practical skills.

In addition to chemical knowledge, the course also provides opportunities to develop teamwork, communication, IT and application of number skills. The course involves conducting experiments, analysing the results relating to your theory lessons, which will include discussions and problem solving, as well as traditional teaching.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
You will sit two written papers, usually in January and June of each year. Your practical skills will be assessed as part of ongoing class practical work followed by a minimum of one coursework exam each year.

WHAT SKILLS AND SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS DO I NEED?
You should have a minimum GCSE grade C (Higher tier) in both GCSE Science and Additional Science or GCSE Chemistry as well as Maths and a minimum average GCSE pass of C.

WHAT CAN I DO NEXT?
Chemistry allows access to essential jobs and other courses, such as University courses including Environmental, Forensic, Food and Textiles Sciences, Pharmacy, Chemical Engineering and Biochemistry. Students have also progressed to science based apprenticeships.

PRIESTLEY EXTRA
Students studying Chemistry have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities including residential courses to assist career choices in Medicine, Forensics, Chemistry and Veterinary Science and to represent the College in the Young Analyst of the Year competition. There is the opportunity to take part in the National Chemistry Olympiad. We also make several visits to Liverpool University to attend practical workshops and students can attend our Chemistry Club to extend their practical knowledge.