This course offers a rigorous exploration of the chemical sciences by blending theoretical concepts with practical applications. You will begin by mastering the fundamentals of physical chemistry including atomic structure, bonding, and the thermodynamics that govern chemical changes. The curriculum extends to inorganic chemistry where you will investigate the trends of the Periodic Table and the behaviour of transition elements alongside a detailed study of organic chemistry that covers the complex reactions of carbon-based molecules. Crucially, you will develop advanced practical skills by planning and conducting experiments to collect and analyse data with precision. By connecting these complex theories to real-world contexts, you will be equipped to interpret chemical phenomena and apply scientific reasoning to solve challenging problems.
Subject Content: AS Level Fundamentals (Papers 1, 2, and 3)
The AS Level covers core concepts across physical, inorganic, and organic chemistry, forming the knowledge foundation.
Physical Chemistry
**Stoichiometry** (moles, reacting masses), **bonding** (ionic, covalent, metallic), states of matter, **energetics** (Hess’s Law), **electrochemistry** (redox), **equilibria** ($K_c$), and **kinetics** (catalysis).
Inorganic Chemistry
**Periodic Table** (periodicity), **Group 2** (alkaline earth metals) and **Group 17** (halogens) trends and reactions, and environmental aspects of **nitrogen and sulfur**.
Organic Chemistry
Introduction (functional groups, **isomerism**), **hydrocarbons** (alkanes/alkenes), **halogen compounds, alcohols, esters, carbonyl compounds**, and basic **polymerization**.
A Level Content: Advanced Topics (Papers 4 and 5)
The A Level expands on AS concepts with advanced theory, specialized topics, and analytical techniques.
Advanced Physical Chemistry
**Lattice energy** and **entropy** in energetics, **standard electrode potentials**, **partition coefficients**, **pH**, **rate equations**, orders of reaction, and mechanisms.
Advanced Inorganic & Organic Chemistry
Properties and reactions of **transition elements**. Advanced organic topics, **stereoisomerism**, and complex organic synthesis.
Analytical Techniques
Application and interpretation of modern **analytical techniques**, including **chromatography** and **spectroscopy** (e.g., NMR).
Skill Development Focus
The course emphasizes the development of advanced scientific and transferable skills.
Problem-Solving & Data Handling
Applying knowledge to **novel situations**, solving complex problems, and **organizing/interpreting experimental and theoretical data**.
Experimental & Critical Thinking
**Planning experiments** safely, evaluating evidence, drawing informed conclusions, and recognizing limitations of scientific models.
Communication
Presenting scientific information clearly and logically using appropriate chemical terminology and notation.
Assessment Structure
Assessment for the full A Level involves five papers, with a subset (P1, P2, P3) required for the AS Level qualification.
- **Paper 1 (MCQ):** 1 hr 15 mins | 31% AS Mark.
- **Paper 2 (Structured):** 1 hr 15 mins | 46% AS Mark.
- **Paper 3 (Practical):** 2 hours (2–3 experiments) | 23% AS Mark.
- **Paper 4 (Structured):** 2 hours | 38.5% A Level Mark (Assumes AS knowledge).
- **Paper 5 (Planning, Analysis, Evaluation):** 1 hr 15 mins | 11.5% A Level Mark (Context may be outside syllabus).