A Level Chemistry

Course Details

Chemistry is the study of the properties and reactions of substances.  It is a science subject, so practical work is an important element.

Subjects that would go well with Chemistry at AS or A level are Biology, Mathematics and Physics. You may be concentrating on arts, humanities or modern language subjects and wish to take Chemistry to AS level to broaden your studies by continuing to take a science subject.

This subject has 6 Units of Assessment.  Three are required for AS and an additional three for A2.

The Salters Advanced Chemistry Course (OCR) offers an innovative approach to teaching and learning chemistry, in which chemical principles are developed through modern applications of chemistry.  Practical assessment is included and a visit to a chemical industry is a recommended part of the course.

Materials for both teachers and students support each theme. 

There are three parts:

• A Storyline provides the settings within which the chemistry and skills are developed.
• The Chemical Ideas provides the underlying chemical

The assessment structure for Chemistry B (Salters) is:

AS – GCE Chemistry B (Salters) (H035)

Unit F331 Chemistry for Life
Examination: 60 marks – 1 hour written paper, Candidates answer all questions. 30%
          
Unit F332 Chemistry of Natural Resources
Examination:  100 marks – 1 hour 45 mins written paper, Candiates answer all questions.

One question will be on an Advance Notice article which will be available to centres via OCR interchange and will be included as an insert with the question paper. 50%

A2 - Advanced GCE Chemistry B (Salters) (H435)

Unit F334 Chemistry of Materials
Examination: 90 marks – 1 hour 30 mins written paper, Candidates answer all questions.
This unit is synoptic 15%

Unit F335 Chemistry by Design
Examination: 120 marks – 2 hour written paper, Candidates answer all questions
This unit is synoptic. 20%

Unit F336 Individual Investigation Coursework:
45 marks,  Candidates work on a chemical investigation of their choice. 
The reports will be marked and authenticated by the teacher and moderates by OCR.15%

Skills required to start the course

You should have studied Science to Higher Level, or Chemistry for a GCSE course.

GCSE entry requirement

Students are generally expected to have achieved at least a Grade B at GCSE or above overall grade would be expected,with a ‘B’ or above in the Chemistry component.

Grade C or above in mathematics is required.

Possible Career Pathways

With a qualification in Chemistry you could go on to Further or Higher Education, studying Chemistry or one of the other sciences or related subjects, such as
Medicine, Pharmacy, Veterinary Science or Chemical Engineering, or work in  science-based industry, the medical field or agriculture.