Cambridge O Level Chemistry (5070)
This course provides a thorough understanding of the material world through the study of matter and its interactions. You will begin by exploring the fundamental concepts of atomic structure, bonding, and stoichiometry to understand the composition of substances and the quantitative aspects of chemical formulas. The curriculum guides you through the energetic and kinetic principles of chemical change where you will investigate rates of reaction, redox processes, and the behaviour of acids, bases, and salts. You will also delve into the patterns of the Periodic Table and the properties of metals alongside a detailed study of organic chemistry and polymers. Crucially, you will develop the practical skills to handle apparatus and conduct experiments safely. By connecting theoretical knowledge with experimental evidence, you will be equipped to explain chemical phenomena and appreciate the impact of chemistry on the environment and modern society.
Subject Content: Physical, Inorganic, and Organic Chemistry
The course covers a comprehensive range of chemical principles, concepts, and applications, with a strong focus on practical skills.
1. Experimental Chemistry
Mastering laboratory techniques (filtration, distillation, chromatography), qualitative analysis of ions/gases, and safety procedures.
2. Physical Chemistry: Structure and Bonding
Covers the particulate nature of matter (solids, liquids, gases), atomic structure, periodic table arrangement, and ionic/covalent/metallic bonding.
3. Physical Chemistry: Reactions
Focuses on stoichiometry (moles, relative masses), energetics (exothermic/endothermic), reaction kinetics*, and electrochemistry.
4. Inorganic Chemistry: Periodic Table & Compounds
Includes periodic table trends, acids, bases, and salts (properties and preparation), and the properties and extraction of metals.
5. Inorganic Chemistry: Environment
Deals with the composition of the atmosphere and topics related to air and water pollution.
6. Organic Chemistry
Introduction to carbon compounds, study of hydrocarbons (alkanes and alkenes), polymers, and macromolecule formation.
Skill Development Focus
The course is designed to cultivate a range of scientific skills beyond just theoretical knowledge.
Scientific Inquiry
Planning experiments, safely using equipment, and recording observations.
Data Analysis
Handling, interpreting, and manipulating various forms of data.
Problem-Solving and Application
Using scientific data and evidence to solve problems and applying knowledge to new, unfamiliar contexts.
Assessment Structure
Candidates are assessed through three papers, covering multiple-choice, theory, and practical skills.
- Duration: 1 hour
- Format: 40 multiple-choice questions.
- Weighting: 30%.
- Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes.
- Format: Mix of short-answer and structured questions.
- Weighting: 50%.
- Format: All candidates take one of the two papers.
- Paper 3: Requires hands-on experimental work.
- Paper 4: Written paper that tests familiarity with practical procedures.
- Weighting: 20%.