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St John’s Catholic Comprehensive School

A-Level Chemistry

Course Details

Chemistry is taught mainly as a content-led approach. Teaching of practical skills is integrated with the theoretical topics and they are both assessed through written papers and, for A-Level only, a teacher assessed practical endorsement. The Edexcel Chemistry specification aims to encourage learners to develop:

  • Essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other.
  • A deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods.

Competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills

Modules Studied

Topics Studied: The specification is divided into 19 topics, each covering different key concepts of physics:

  • Topic 1: Atomic Structure and the PT
  • Topic 2: Bonding and Structure
  • Topic 3: Redox I
  • Topic 4: Inorganic Chemistry and the PT
  • Topic 5: Equations and Amounts of Substance
  • Topic 6: Organic Chemistry I
  • Topic 7: Modern Analytical Techniques I
  • Topic 8: Energetics I
  • Topic 9: Kinetics I
  • Topic 10: Equilibrium I
  • Topic 11: Equilibrium II
  • Topic 12: Acid-base Equilibria
  • Topic 13: Energetics II
  • Topic 14: Redox II
  • Topic 15: Transition Metals
  • Topic 16: Kinetics II
  • Topic 17: Organic Chemistry II
  • Topic 18: Organic Chemistry III                
  • Topic 19: Modern Analytical Technique

What can I do after I have completed this course?

Chemistry brings a lot of scientific theory and thinking together and a good A-Level grade demonstrates that a student can apply themselves in problem solving, practical skills and scientific writing; these qualities are highly prized in today’s competitive job market.

Chemistry is central to careers in physics, materials, engineering, medicine, earth science and life sciences.  Chemists often end up working in industry (research and development, analytical chemistry, technical sales, and marketing), public services (forensic science, health services, environmental protection, and water companies), academia and teaching, publishing, technical writing, and patent law.