What will students study in Chemistry this year? Exam Board: OCR A (H432)

In the first year, students will study: Fundamentals in Chemistry – this module builds on a lot of content from GCSE and makes sure that the students are confident with their understanding of atomic structure as well as quantitative calculations; The Periodic table and energy – where students will develop their understanding of how the periodic table is arranged as well as using their knowledge to explain why certain chemical phenomenon happen, students also look at the energy required or released from a range of chemical reactions; Core Organic Chemistry where students will look at the basic concepts of organic chemistry before moving on to studying the chemistry of Alcohols and Halo-Alkenes as well as organic synthesis and analytical techniques.

In the second year students will build on the content taught in the first year. Students will study Physical Chemistry and transition elements – where students will look at reactions rates; acids, bases, and pH; equilibrium; redox reactions and transition elements. The final unit students will study Organic Chemistry and Analysis where students will study aromatic compounds and their properties along with more complex analytical techniques

There is a large practical component to A Level Chemistry and students will complete regular practical work throughout the course where their ability to follow complex instructions, risk assess, analyse, evaluate and research will be greatly enhanced

What are the major assessments this year?

Students will sit in-school exams at regular intervals throughout the year

External exams (A Level exams) will be sat at the end of the year 13 in the Summer Term

What do assessments test?

The in-school assessments will assess the content that has been taught up till that point in the course.

The final exams consist of three separate exams

• Paper 1 assesses content taught in the first year
• Paper 2 assess content taught in the second year
• Paper 3 assess content from both years

What are the expectations of my child in A Level Chemistry

All students are expected to attend all lessons and complete all class work and homework to a good standard. If a student misses school for any reason they will be expected to catch up with any work missed. Students are expected to spend 10 hours a fortnight working outside of lessons: revising previous content, practising past papers, and reading around the subject

What should students do if they are struggling in A Level Chemistry?

If students are struggling with the course they can speak to their class teachers or speak to Mrs McCready, Director of Science. Regular completing of past paper questions, available to download on the OCR website, will allow your child to practice answering exam questions and build their confidence.

How can I best support my child in Chemistry?

You can support your child throughout the course by encouraging them to complete all work to a good standard and on time. Asking your child questions from their work will also help them to be able to recall definitions, key concepts and equations. Show an interest in what they are studying at school and encourage them to talk about what they have been learning.

Whom should I contact for further advice or information?

If you would like any further advice or information please contact Mrs McCready, Director of Science - hmccready@carshaltongirls.org.uk