Chemistry

Why study A Level Chemistry?

Chemistry underpins and helps explain the world around us. It is at the forefront of many topical and important issues such as nanotechnology and is seen as a prestigious A Level by many universities, being listed as a preferred subject for entry to Oxbridge courses.

There are many science-related opportunities including Medicine, Pharmacology and Veterinary Sciences, as well as non-science related courses such as Law and Accountancy.

How will I be assessed?

After the second year of study there will be three written papers with weightings of 35%, 35% and 30%. These will cover the full course content as well as experiment techniques encountered during a minimum of twelve ‘required practicals’.

Practical skills are assessed during the course and are given a pass/fail status; this does not count towards the final grade. Practical work must be kept in a Laboratory Book.

entry requirements 

Students who have followed Combined Science need a minimum of two Grade 6s at GCSE. Students who have studied Triple Science also must have achieved a Grade 6 (one of which must be in Chemistry) and a Grade 6 in another science. The nature of the course includes a strong mathematical element, so a minimum of a Higher Paper Grade 5 (or preferably a Grade 6) in Mathematics is also required.

What skills will I gain from studying Chemistry?

• A capacity for calculating, computing and applying formulae
• Able to assemble and assess data
• Able to develop ideas, gather information, analyse, evaluate and deduce
• Able to work independently and as part of a team to achieve results
• Able to meet deadlines

Where can Chemistry lead?

• Petrochemical Industry
• Dentistry
• Veterinary Science
• Pharmacy
• Medicine
• Food Science
• Environmental work
• Biochemistry
• Law
• Accountancy
• IT
• Engineering
• Architecture

Staff

The following members of staff form the Chemistry department at King Edwards: