Chemistry A-Level

What is Chemistry?

Chemistry helps us to understand materials, explain properties and observations and to develop problem-solving skills. Using Chemistry we can live more sustainably, contributing to the development of renewable and low carbon energy sources. Synthesis of organic molecules can help us to develop pharmaceuticals to improve human health in a changing world.

What Will You Study on the Chemistry A-Level course?

Chemistry A-Level Reading List >

In Year 12, Foundations in Chemistry including:

• Atomic Structure and isotopes
• Compounds, Formulae and equations
• The mole and calculations involving the amount of substance
• Acid-base and RedOx reactions and titrations
• Electron configurations and orbital theory
• Ionisation energy and trends in the Periodic Table
• Chemical Bonding and structure (linked to physical properties)
• Chemistry of Group 2 and Group 7 elements
• Qualitative analysis
• Enthalpy changes
• Core Organic Chemistry
• Nomenclature and basic concepts of organic chemistry
• Hydrocarbons including alkanes and alkenes
• Alcohol and Haloalkane chemistry
• Organic synthesis and Modern Analytical Techniques (Mass Spectrometry and Infra-Red Spectroscopy)
• Esters
• Development of practical skills is embedded throughout the course

What Next?

Studying A-Level Chemistry is a route to some fantastic career opportunities in the areas of Science, Medicine and Engineering. In addition to studying a Chemistry degree, Chemistry A-Level allows you to progress onto university to study courses such as Pharmacy, Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry, Chemical Engineering, Forensic Science and Environmental Science to name a few. The analytical, mathematical, investigative, research, decision making and problem-solving skills developed by studying Chemistry are highly transferable skills and sought by a range of employers.

Exam Board

OCR: Chemistry A Specification.

Entry Requirements

At least five 5s at GCSE, including at least a 6 in two Sciences (including a 6 in Chemistry if taken) and a 6 in Maths.

Have you considered studying a Mixed Programme (A-Levels and Btecs) Whether you’re on target to achieve five 5s in your GCSEs or not there may still be an option to study A-Levels alongside a BTEC qualification at Newman.

Course Type

A-Level

What other subjects go well with this subject?

Maths, Biology, Physics and Core Maths.