Summer Work + Reading for Incoming Pupils in A Level Chemistry
1. COMPULSORY TASK - MOLES
Moles is a major component of the first topic in International A Level Chemistry. Therefore, a summer task is to brush up on your understanding of moles, especially if you have not previously studied triple sciences at IGCSE level.
a) Review the IGCSE basics: Save My Exams – Topic 3 Stoichiometry
b) Attempt these A Level style back titration questions
If you wish to consolidate your Chemistry knowledge moving to A Level, there is an optional bridging book which supports the move from IGCSE to A Level - Head Start to A-level Chemistry which is published by CGP (ISBN: 9781782942801)
2. OPTIONAL TASK – SUBJECT WIDER READING
Please pick one of the following books to read:
a) Stuff Matters (Mark Miodownik) ISBN: 978-0544483941 - Materials science explained through the chemistry of ordinary objects.
b) The Disappearing Spoon (Sam Kean) ISBN: 978-0316388276 - A highly readable tour of the periodic table through strange historical stories and discoveries.
c) Periodic Tales: The Curious Lives of the Elements (Hugh Aldersey-Williams) ISBN: 978-0141041452 - A literary and cultural exploration of the elements.
d) Bad Science (Ben Goldacre) ISBN: 978-0007284870 - Essential reading for evaluating claims and understanding scientific reasoning. Mr Goldacre has also given a TED Talk on this topic.
3. FOR INTEREST – CHEMISTRY YOUTUBE CHANNELS
For Curiosity:
i. Periodic Videos
Created at the University of Nottingham, this is a chemistry education channel created by the Poliakoff Research Group.
ii. NileRed (my favourite!)
Advanced but fascinating experimental chemistry demonstrations. The earlier videos are stronger.
iii. ChemicalForce
Engaging demonstrations and chemistry explanations.
iv. Professor Dave Explains
Excellent conceptual teaching across organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry.
v. Tyler DeWitt
Famous for making difficult chemistry concepts intuitive and memorable.
vi. CrashCourse Chemistry
Fast-paced but brilliant for building big-picture understanding of chemistry.
For A Level Content:
i. Allery Chemistry
A-Level chemistry channel with clear topic explanations and exam technique.
ii. Science Shorts
Useful for rapid revision before tests and exams.
iii. The Organic Chemistry Tutor
Outstanding for calculations, organic mechanisms, equilibrium, energetics, and step-by-step problem solving.
iv. Khan Academy (Chemistry)
Structured lessons that are especially strong for physical chemistry.