HOLY CROSS COLLEGE
Chemistry
Mission Statement
With a good grounding in Chemistry, you’ll not only understand how to balance an equation and discuss molecules like a pro, but you’ll also get a better understanding of how real-world phenomena work. Nowadays, Chemistry has been converted from a quest to turn lead into gold into a big business with hundreds of thousands of chemists working worldwide. In A-level classes, students are provided with opportunities for problem solving, group-work and independent learning activities. A level Chemistry students are encouraged to develop their laboratory skills in preparation for practical examinations at AS level and A2 level.
The Chemistry AS and A-Level course has been designed to encourage students to:
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Develop their interest in and enthusiasm for Chemistry, including developing an
interest in further study and careers in the subject;
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Appreciate how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society;
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Develop and demonstrate a deeper appreciation of the skills, knowledge and
understanding of how science works
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Develop a critical appraisal of the Earth’s finite resources and the way in which they are used.
The Chemistry Team
Subject Co-ordinator
Mr Joseph O'Brien
A Level Subject Teachers
Mr Joseph O'Brien
Mr Michael Meenagh
Course overview
Chemistry at A-Level will be offered as a modular course from the CCEA examinations board. Three modules will be studied in Year 13 at AS-Level with another three studied in Year 14 for the A2 qualification.
All modules, including practical assessments will be examined by written exam which will be set and marked by the exam board-CCEA. AS modules will be assessed in May/June of year 13 and A2 modules will be assessed in May/June year 14.
The AS modules will account for 40% of the final A-Level grade.
The A2 modules will account for 60% of the final A-Level grade.
Three modules will be studied in Year 13 at AS-Level:
AS 1: Basic Concepts in Physical and Inorganic Chemistry
1 1/2 hour written exam
40% of AS
(16% of A-Level)
AS 2: Further Physical and Inorganic Chemistry and Introduction to Organic Chemistry
1 1/2 hour written exam
40% of AS
(16% of A Level)
AS 3: Practical Assessment: Basic Practical Chemistry
A: 1 1/4 hour Practical task
B: 1 1/4 hour written exam
20% of AS
(8% of A-Level)
With another three modules studied in Year 14 for the A2 qualification:
A2 1: Further Physical and Organic Chemistry
2 hour written exam
24% of A Level
A2 2: Analytical, Transition Metals, Electrochemistry and Further Organic Chemistry
2 hour written exam
24% of A-Level
A2 3: Practical Assessment: Further Practical Chemistry
A: 1 1/4 hour Practical task
B: 1 1/4 hour written exam
12% of A Level
Entry Requirements
It is expected that pupils wishing to study AS Chemistry have achieved a minimum of a grade BB at GCSE Double Award Science.
Career Opportunities
One of the most important reasons for studying Chemistry is the wide choice of careers it opens up. Chemistry is essential for many careers including: Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary and Pharmacy. Chemistry is also an essential requirement to study many biologically based sciences e.g. biochemistry, food science and food technology, biotechnology, microbiology, environmental biology and agriculture. The study of Chemistry can lead to many exciting and rewarding careers e.g. analytical and forensic science, research and development in industries such as pharmaceuticals, petrochemical textiles and microchip technology. Careers are also available in teaching, lecturing and management.