Chemistry is the branch of science that deals with the composition, properties and behaviour of matter. A Level Chemistry studies the atom and the ways in which interactions between atoms are related to the properties of chemical bonds formed between species. Chemists are concerned with the reactions between substances, their accompanying energy exchange and the laws that unite these phenomena. Our course combines an effective balance of knowledge, understanding and practical skills. We follow the OCR A specification.
“Chemistry at Dereham Sixth Form College has been one of my best post-16 choices – both the content and teacher support provided by the College has helped me countless times during the course. Having enjoyed this subject at high school, the transition from GCSE content to A Level content was very manageable, even if at times challenging. A Level Chemistry suits my style of learning very well – as a visual learner and one who enjoys there being a set ‘right or wrong’ answer, my Year 12 studies have been flexible enough to cater towards my preferred style. Personally, I enjoy the explicitness of chemistry. There’s very little reading between the lines in the core content and there is always an answer to ‘why?’ DSFC has really helped me realise my love for the sciences and has encouraged me to continue them in higher education.”
Rose
Hear from our Head of A Level Chemistry – video coming soon!
Mrs A Simms
Head of Chemistry
Chemistry is often referred to as the central science joining together physics, mathematics, biology, medicine and the earth and environmental sciences. We aim to develop essential understanding of the concepts in chemistry and the skills needed to apply these in new and changing situations. Most laboratory-based jobs benefit from a chemistry qualification and success at Chemistry A Level is viewed as a clear indication of high academic ability. This makes it an excellent subject when applying to university and students with an A Level in Chemistry have gone on to study a wide range of subjects including chemical engineering, medicine, veterinary medicine, environmental science, biomedicine, pharmacology, biochemistry and forensics. Chemistry is a popular and well-resourced subject at the College. The quality of teaching and support student receive are reflected in consistently good results.
Year 1
In the first year you will study some key areas of chemistry to provide a firm foundation for further study.
1. Atoms, compounds, molecules and equations
2. Acid-base and redox reactions
3. The periodic table and periodicity
4. Enthalpy changes, reaction rates and equilibrium
5. Core organic chemistry
Year 2
In the second year the main chemical concepts are developed in greater depth.
6. Acids, bases, pH and buffers
7. Rates of reactions, equilibria, enthalpy
8. Redox and electrode potentials
9. Transition elements
10. Organic chemistry, chromatography and spectroscopy
Throughout both years there will be a list of practical activities which you must carry out.
Assessment
There are three exam papers. The first two are 2 hours 15 minutes each and the third is 1 hour 30 minutes.
Paper 1 assesses the periodic table, elements and chemistry from units on Development of practical skills in chemistry; Foundations in chemistry; Periodic table and energy; and Physical chemistry and transition elements. It contains multiple choice questions, short answer questions and extended response questions.
Paper 2 assesses synthesis and analytical techniques from units on Development of practical skills in chemistry; Foundations in chemistry; Core organic chemistry; and Organic chemistry and analysis. It contains multiple choice questions, short answer questions and extended response questions.
Paper 3 assesses content from all topics. It contains short answer questions and extended response questions.
Entry Requirements
Minimum 66555 including 6 in Chemistry (or Combined Science) and 5 in Mathematics.
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