OCR A Level Chemistry A

The A Level Chemistry course is divided into topics, each covering different key concepts of chemistry. Teaching of practical skills is integrated with the theoretical topics and they're assessed both through written papers and, for A level only, the Practical Endorsement, which is essential for any future practical based Chemistry career. You'll gain hands on experience with practical activities such as titration, chromatography, acid-base redox reactions, enthalpy changes, quantitative and qualitative analysis to name a few! These techniques are used by University students studying degree-level Science courses and potentially in a future career you might have. You will improve your analytical, evaluative and technical skills, and become competent in complex lab-based work. This will provide you with the skills employers look for, and prepare you for a range of roles in the scientific industries or give you an excellent foundation for progression to Higher Education. OCR's A Level in Chemistry A specification aims to encourage learners to: develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other; develop and demonstrate a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods; develop competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills; develop their interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject; understand how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society.

There are no previous learning requirements. Any requirements for entry to a course based on this specification are at the discretion of the school. However, we recommend that students should have the skills and knowledge associated with a GCSE Chemistry or equivalent.

OCR’s A Level in Chemistry A specification aims to encourage learners to: • develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other • develop and demonstrate a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods • develop competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills • develop their interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject • understand how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contributeto the success of the economy and society (as exemplified in ‘How Science Works’ (HSW)).

There will be teacher led lessons, individual and group project work, discussions and debates. There will be films and videos and student-led and online presentations. You will be expected to undertake private study including reading widely, research, revision and homework tasks.

Assessment Overview: Periodic table, elements and physical chemistry (01) 100 marks - 2 hours 15 minutes written paper (37%) Synthesis and analytical techniques (02) 100 marks - 2 hours 15 minutes written paper (37%) Unified chemistry (03) 70 marks - 1 hour 30 minutes written paper (26%) Plus Practical Endorsement in chemistry (04) (non exam assessment)

This specification provides a suitable progression to a range of higher education degree and vocational level courses or to employment.