CHEMISTRY

Edexcel IGCSE 4CH1

An understanding of Chemistry is fundamental to fully appreciating the eloquence and nature of the modern world we inhabit. It is truly the central sciences which encompasses thousands of years of human progress in scientific endeavour. From unravelling the mysteries of matter through discussing atoms and molecules and the forces of attraction that hold the biological and physical world together to the marvellous materials that comprise our industrialised existence, Chemistry helps us better conceptualise our world. The study of Chemistry will help pupils develop a number of highly valuable skills which will be keenly sought after by any universities or employers. The study of chemistry is always well-respected due to its ability to encourage its pupils to solve complex problems through the application of knowledge and experience. The subject inculcates analytical thinking skills in all pupils, and it encompasses numerical literacy and advanced mathematical principles. The subject helps to allow pupil to become proficient in logical thought, careful planning and practical proficiency through experimentation, giving pupils a truly comprehensive skill set. Those with an eye on particular career routes should take note that chemistry is a subject that opens many doors. Those who may wish to study Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary science will require an A level in Chemistry (for which the IGCSE would be a prerequisite). However, Chemistry would also be a relevant and beneficial subject to someone seeking a career in any facet of science or engineering and in many other disciplines including finance, law and even politics – one 20th century prime minister was a research chemist –the applications of chemistry are truly myriad.

The course

• In Year 9 the course will focus on providing a solid foundation of learning. This will include building an understanding of the classical states of matter and practical techniques to separate substances into their key components. We then focus on the structure of the Atom and on the intricacies of chemical structures and how an understanding of how these underpin the physical properties of those structure. It will also introduce pupils to the importance of the periodic table in predicting and explaining chemical trends. The final half of the year will include some mathematical principles, along with investigations into the speed of chemical reactions and factors that affect these, along with a study of the gases in our atmosphere and environmental considerations highly relevant and topical to current socioeconomic events. • In Year 10 the course focuses initially on organic chemistry and the reasons why carbon truly is the most versatile elements in existence. We also work on pupil’s practical knowledge and ability to plan and execute practical investigations into various salt preparations, the use of indicators and acid-base reactions. In the latter half of the year, we move onto energetics and investigate the heat energy given out or taken in by chemical processes and the theory behind this phenomenon. Finally, we finish by building further rigor and proficiency with chemical calculations onto the groundwork laid down in Year 9.

• In Year 11 we focus on evolving the course to cover the most abstract, higher order topics and prepare the pupils thoroughly for public examinations with a bespoke revision programme. The final year includes more advanced organic chemistry principles. We also investigate the fundamental principles of chemical equilibria and electrolysis; both crucial principles when scaled to an industrial level. Finally, we look at chemical analysis; effectively the chemical equivalent of forensic analysis as pupils learn how to be chemical detectives to identify mystery components of compounds. • The course involves the undertaking of a number of recommended practical elements and teaching staff will enhance the learning experience with many other practical opportunities. These are not directly assessed but will be relevant to questions asked in the public examinations. • The department has developed a number of key resources including videos and multimedia resources to ensure the education experience for the pupils is as enriched and engaging as possible.

The skills

It is our belief of the Chemistry Department that the subject develops truly holistic and comprehensive skills bases in our pupils including: • Analysis: The ability to utilize and apply complex and abstract ideas and concepts to solve novel problems • Experiment: The ability to hypothesis, target and plan effective practical investigations, record accurate results, draw logical conclusions and evaluate the efficacy of their investigations • Explore: The ability to learn and explore new ideas in the chemical field of enquiry • Communication: The opportunity to discuss and debate fundamental principles of nature • Synthesis: The opportunity to construct their own ideas based upon a logical framework of prior knowledge

Mr C R Birch Head of Chemistry

crb@wellingboroughschool.org