Chemistry
Subject Leader: Mrs Pidwell - mpidwell@tqacademy.co.uk
AIMS OF THE CHEMISTRY DEPARTMENT
To develop an understanding of the principles of chemistry to understand the world around us, and provide a basis for A level chemistry.
CHEMISTRY CURRICULUM
OVERVIEW OF KEY STAGE 3 CURRICULUM
The KS3 science curriculum introduces students to the fundamentals of chemistry which is then expanded upon in key stage 4 and 5.
OVERVIEW OF KEY STAGE 4 CURRICULUM
Course Title: Combined Science
Examining Body: AQA
Course Lead: Chemistry - Mrs Pidwell
What will I study?
- Atomic structure and the periodic table
- Bonding, structure, and the properties of matter
- Quantitative chemistry
- Chemical changes
- Energy changes
- The rate and extent of chemical change
- Organic chemistry
- Chemical analysis
- Chemistry of the atmosphere
- Using resources
How and when will I be assessed?
This subject has two terminal exams at the end of year 11 which form part of the suite of 6 combined science exams overall.
Paper 1 is sat in May and paper 2 in June. Each exam is 75 minutes and carries 70 marks (one sixth of the total GCSE marks).
Paper 1 covers atomic structure and the periodic table; bonding, structure, and the properties of matter; quantitative chemistry; chemical changes; and energy changes.
Paper 2 covers the rate and extent of chemical change; organic chemistry; chemical analysis; chemistry of the atmosphere; and using resources.
OVERVIEW OF KEY STAGE 5 CURRICULUM
Course Title: A Level Chemistry
Examining Body: AQA
Course Lead: Mrs Pidwell
Course description
A level Chemistry is a course which is designed to open your eyes to the world around us. It covers a wide range of chemical ideas in the context of everyday applications of chemistry.
It is a fascinating look at how the molecules within our bodies and throughout the universe interact with one another, releasing energy and producing new products that we can make use of.
It enables you to understand many of the issues facing the world today, such as climate change, the use of resources, and meeting the needs of a growing population, and to see the ways in which chemists are helping to address these challenges.
What will I learn?
There are 10 units covering 34 topics from AQA. They include developing fuels which are centred around organic molecules such as alkanes and the energy given out by these molecules during combustion. Ozone is focused on the chemicals in the atmosphere, how they interact with other chemicals and understanding things such as the hole in the ozone layer and global warming in more detail. Polymers and life shows the deep connection between biology and chemistry, looking at the bonding polymers such as DNA and how proteins are made in transcription and translation.
Course structure
Three exam papers all sat at the end of year 13.
Paper 1 - Physical and Inorganic Chemistry, 105 marks, 2 hours
Paper 2 - Physical and Organic Chemistry, 105 marks, 2 hours
Paper 3 - Physical, Inorganic and Organic Chemistry, 90 marks, 2 hours
Where could it lead?
A level chemistry is highly desired and respected by all university courses, apprenticeships and prospective employers. A level chemistry is a subject that will help you to develop your analytical skills, communication skills and deep thinking skills. A level of chemistry can lead to a wide range of university degrees and careers, from pharmacology to law, it also counts as a ‘science A level’ for all degrees with such requirements. Many students have progressed to study chemistry or a related subject at degree level at several universities.
CLIMBING THE MOUNTAIN TO UNIVERSITY
University of Bath, University of Bristol and University of Cambridge are three of the most highly regarded universities for chemistry. But Chemistry can be studied at most universities in the UK and worldwide.
CAREERS INFORMATION
Below are three examples of careers related to Chemistry:
Chemical Engineer - Chemical engineers develop and design chemical manufacturing processes. Chemical engineers apply the principles of chemistry, physics, and engineering to design equipment and processes for manufacturing products such as gasoline, detergents, and paper.
Cosmetic Chemist - Cosmetic chemists are the scientific specialists who engage in the research, development, formulation, production and testing of new cosmetics and toiletry products. They ensure the products perform as intended and that they are safe for use
Bioanalytical Chemist - A bioanalytical chemist studies biological samples to separate, detect, identify, and quantify biological molecules. This can include proteins, peptides, DNA, and drugs.
EXTRACURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES
At KS3 we offer the Crest Club. In KS4 and KS5 we offer the Crest Award, a trip to university of Bath to separate and analyse samples of aspirin and at KS5 the opportunity to enter the Cambridge Challenge and Chemistry Olympiad.
