Chemistry

Exam Board: OCR Chemistry B Syllabus: A-level: H433 Consult: Mr Blair

Mrs Hook

WHY STUDY THE SUBJECT? Chemistry is the science that is central to understanding and developing modern day technology. In fields that range from medicines to fuels, polymers to dyes, the skills and knowledge of the Chemist are fundamental in furthering sustainable and green technology to meet the needs of a growing population and finite resources. Chemistry also underpins our understanding of how living organisms and ecosystems work, as well as our relationship with the wider environment through study of the chemistry of our atmosphere and oceans.

In contrast to a traditional “topic-based” course, the OCR B (Salters) course is unique in that it provides students the opportunity to learn chemical principals in a “context-led” approach. Learners study chemical ideas via a range of different topical and relevant “storylines” and gain an awareness of the ethical, environmental, technological and economic aspects of chemistry. Ideas are introduced in a spiral way with new concepts introduced in the early part of the course reinforced throughout the course in later contexts. As such, students learn to draw on multiple areas of chemical theory in order to solve real life problems and learn to think in a synoptic way.

The ‘B’ specification places a particular emphasis on an investigational and problem-solving approach to practical work. Candidates are offered the opportunity to devise and plan experimental and investigative work and learn to interpret, explain, evaluate and communicate their findings. Chemistry is a rigorous and challenging but highly rewarding subject and students find the topics covered both stimulating and relevant.

CONTENT AND BREAKDOWN Year 12 Modules: • Development of practical skills in chemistry • Elements of life • Developing fuels • Elements from the sea • The ozone story • What’s in a medicine? A-level Modules (in addition to the Year 12 Modules) • The chemical industry • Polymers and life • Oceans • Developing metals • Colour by design • Chemical literacy • Practical endorsement - a pass/fail component separate from the final grade.

ASSESSMENT The A-level is assessed by three examinations.

AFTER ASHCOMBE Studying Chemistry opens doors to a range of sectors and opportunities, meaning your future career doesn’t have to be in a lab. Careers could include medicine, chemical engineer, forensic scientist, pharmacologist, nuclear engineer and an environmental consultant.

PROFILE: TESS

WHY DID YOU JOIN ASHCOMBE SIXTH FORM? In September last year I still didn’t know where to go but after visiting Ashcombe and talking to friends already there I was persuaded. It’s a big enough Sixth Form that there’s loads of people to meet, but you also get to know everyone really well.

HOW IS SIXTH FORM DIFFERENT TO SCHOOL? It is a lot of fun, albeit demanding. The workload is definitely more but I like the freedom. It is great that we also have our own Common Room and Work Space.

HOW HAVE YOU FELT SUPPORTED IN THE SIXTH FORM? We’ve got form tutors who we see every day so there’s always someone to ask about things. Teachers always go above and beyond and I enjoy all of my lessons.

WHAT ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES HAVE YOU MADE USE OF? I completed my Gold DofE in the summer. It was an amazing experience to visit The Lake District and Snowdonia. I am really looking forward to the Berlin trip in February to support my studies in A-level History. HOW DID YOU PICK WHICH SUBJECTS TO STUDY? I loved History and English at school so that was an easy decision and I chose Politics because I wanted to gain more understanding of the current issues we’re facing.

WHAT ARE YOU FUTURE PLANS? After Ashcombe, I’m hoping to take a gap year and plan to travel as much as possible. I am really looking forward to starting my course in International Relations and Politics (with a year abroad) at Cardiff next year.

“Teachers always go above and beyond and I enjoy all of my lessons.”