Chemistry

Exam Board: OCR A

The OCR A Chemistry specification enables students to learn about key chemistry concepts, alongside a range of practical skills. The course develops skills in analytical thinking, scientific numeracy and a deep understanding of scientific method.

Course Content:

In Year 12 students study a wide range of topics including chemistry calculations, synthesis of organic chemicals and the structure and periodicity of the periodic table. In Year 13 this expands to cover the design of new pharmaceutical drugs, organic reactions, transition metals and physical chemistry.

A Level students will have ample opportunity to complete core practical activities in lessons and use these to develop competence in ‘How Science Works’ skills. These skills will be assessed in the written examinations and will enable students to achieve their practical endorsement certificate.

Entry requirements:

Grade 7 grade at GCSE Science (additional or separates) and Grade 6 at GCSE mathematics.

Course structure and examinations:

Module 1: Developing practical skills, Module 2: Foundations in chemistry, Module 3: Periodic table and energy, Module 4: Core organic chemistry, Module 5: Physical chemistry and transition elements and Module 6: Organic chemistry and analysis.

Final assessment is via 3 exam papers.

Progression routes and careers:

Chemistry is a vital A Level to obtain for future studies in medicine, dentistry, veterinary, optometry, audiology, biochemistry, chemistry. It is also incredibly useful for many other subjects, such as law or history.