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Chemistry- AS & A2 at Mill Hill County High School

Course description

Examination Board: AQA Description of the Specification At AS Level candidates are given a solid grounding in foundation chemistry. The syllabus introduces the chemical reactivity of atoms and molecules and provides an understanding of their structures. The development and use of the periodic table is explained. The introduction of Practical Skills Assignments (PSA) into the specification allows teachers to credit candidates for work done in routine class practicals. Assessment is linked to the work of the course. At A2 Level the syllabus develops the concepts of physical chemistry introduced at AS. Candidates will study kinetics, equilibria, organic chemistry and spectroscopic techniques to determine the molecular formulae and structures of organic compounds. Candidates will continue to be assessed through PSA, gaining credit for work done in routine class practicals. Type and Nature of Work Involved • Understanding of chemical concepts and principals, and applying them to unfamiliar situations including industrial applications. • Demonstrating critical awareness of the technological aspects of chemistry, and of the issues of a social, economic and environmental nature; • Developing skills in the design of experiments and the handling of delicate equipment, and potentially hazardous chemicals. • Interpretation of information from various sources e.g. graphs, equations, written prose. Method of Assessment AS Unit 1 Atomic Structure, Bonding and Introduction to Organic Chemistry 1¼ hours structured questions and an extended answer 16.67% of total A level mark Unit 2 Foundation Physical and Inorganic Chemistry plus Haloalkanes & Alkenes 1¾ hours structured questions and an extended answer 23.33% of total A level mark Unit 3 Investigative and Practical Skills – Internal Assessment Internally assessed throughout the course 10% of total A level mark A2 Unit 4 Kinetics, Equilibra and Organic Chemistry 1¾ hours structured questions and an extended answer 20% of total A level mark Unit 5 Energetics, Redox and Inorganic Chemistry 1¾ hours of structured questions 20% of total A level mark Unit 6 Investigative and Practical Skills Internal Assessment Internally assessed throughout the course 10% of total A level mark

Entry requirements

Entry Criteria All students are required to study at least four subjects of which at least three will lead to A level. For those students wishing to study a wider range of AS levels, it is expected that they have obtained at least five GCSE passes at grades A*, A or B. There are specific entry expectations for some subjects and these are given in the individual subject details. It is also expected that all Advanced Level students’ GCSE results will include passes at Grade C or above in Mathematics and English Language. Students who achieve at least 9 A or A* grades at GCSE have, by right, the choice of taking up to five AS level options in Year 12. For those students wishing to take a vocationally orientated double A level in either ICT or Media (together with Film Studies) the expectation is five GCSE passes at grade C or above, or the equivalent. All students taking the double A levels are expected to take two additional subjects. Specific Entry Requirements for Chemistry: A minimum of two grade As in GCSE Science and grade B in GCSE Mathematics.

Future opportunities

You could take this course with other advanced level courses, which overlap with Chemistry such as Biology, Applied Science, Physics, Geography, Geology or more general subjects that may not relate to the sciences, to prepare for higher education. With further training, you could go into a job related to Chemistry or one of the other sciences such as a Doctor, Nurse, Scientist or Pharmacist. The course will also help you to develop the basic skills, understanding and knowledge that many employers across lots of industries are looking for.

Further information

To find out more about this course / qualification please contact us, or you can ask your Connexions Personal Adviser or school/college careers staff.

Key information

Venues

  • Contact details
    • Address:
    • Mill Hill County High School
    • Worcester Crescent
    • Mill Hill
    • LONDON
    • LONDON
    • NW7 4LL