Course Entry Requirements

Grade 6 in GCSE Chemistry or 66 in Combined Science plus grade 5 in GCSE Maths and grade 4 in English Language.

Introduction

This course is part of a highly successful department with committed tutors to help you to achieve the highest grade possible. You will take part in regular practical sessions to help you develop your lab techniques and evaluative skills. There will also be opportunities to take part in Chemistry Society activities and competitions.

What you will study

  • Inorganic and Physical Chemistry e.g. how to calculate the pH of solutions and how storage and fuel cells work
  • Organic Chemistry e.g. how to synthesise organic molecules and the study of their functional groups and how they react
  • Analytical Chemistry e.g. how chemists use infra-red spectroscopy to work out which functional groups are in the molecule

Regular practical sessions are closely linked to the theory taught in lessons. This proves an effective way of developing your grasp of the theoretical concepts covered.

Assessments

Three examinations at the end of year two. You will also complete a range of practical tasks during the two years for which you will be awarded a practical endorsement, which will supplement your A Level certificate.

Course Support

  • One-to-one support
  • Regular tutorials to develop what you have learnt in lessons
  • High Achievers+ activities

A Level Chemistry includes regular practical sessions. These sessions will help to develop your chemical techniques as well as your laboratory skills. These will also be invaluable for future science-related careers.

Facilities

2 fully equipped laboratories with access to a third, including:

Analytical chemistry

  • A full range of titration apparatus
  • Melting point machines
  • TLC plates

Synthesis of organic chemicals

  • An extensive range of Quickfit glassware to enable students to work individually developing their laboratory skills
  • Reflux apparatus
  • Distillation apparatus
  • Reduced pressure filtration
  • Separating funnels
  • Rotary evaporator

All labs have two fume cupboards for use when working with hazardous chemicals. All students also have access to a computer suite.

Enrichment Activities

  • ChemSoc (Chemistry Society) Enrichment sessions
  • Competitions including Cambridge Chemistry Challenge,
  • RSC (Royal Society of Chemistry) Young Analyst and Chemistry Olympiad Cambridge Challenge
  • Merseyside Young Analyst Competition
  • University visits for STEM Masterclasses and Chemistry in Action study days

If you are aspiring to have a career in Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Science, then take a look at our MDV Programme –
View the Med, Dent, Vet Programme video

Progression

As well as being important in its own right, this A Level Chemistry is an essential requirement for medicine, dentistry and veterinary science.

In the past, our students have entered university to follow many different courses – pharmacy, medicine, dentistry. Similarly, other courses include physiotherapy, analytical chemistry, pure chemistry, forensic science, biological and environmental sciences, law, engineering and business.

Further Information

A Level Chemistry Course Leaflet

Exam Board Course Specification

 

 

 

What Our Students Say

“I’ve really enjoyed studying A Level Chemistry at Carmel. I’ve found the course content highly interesting and I have built my understanding of the subject from GCSE. The standard of teaching has been consistently high, ensuring that I come out of my lessons satisfied that I understand the content. There are also lots of opportunities to ask for help e.g. Chemistry Clinic, where students can ask for help from an available tutor whilst studying. The teachers are always available and happy to help you."

Elisha Ainsworth

Chemistry student Elisha Ainsworth