Chemistry A Level (Full AS + A2)

This distance learning A Level Chemistry course has been designed to the latest specifications. The first available exam dates for this version of the AQA Chemistry A Level are in June 2017.

Chemistry is a subject that can be applied across a number of fields, from medicine to engineering. It is an exciting and wide ranging subject with real world applications that students can relate to. An A Level in chemistry can open up a world of science, and act as a pathway to higher education and future employment in a interesting and important industry.

In accordance with the latest specifications, this course has been designed to encourage students to:

• Develop their interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject
• Develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other
• Develop and demonstrate a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods
• Develop competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills
• Understand how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society
• Use theories, models and ideas to develop scientific explanations
• Use knowledge and understanding to pose scientific questions, define scientific problems, present scientific arguments and scientific ideas
• Use appropriate methodology, including information and communication technology (ICT), to answer scientific questions and solve scientific problems
• Carry out experimental and investigative activities, including appropriate risk management, in a range of contexts
• Analyse and interpret data to provide evidence, recognising correlations and causal relationships
• Evaluate methodology, evidence and data, and resolve conflicting evidence
• Know that scientific knowledge and understanding develops over time
• Communicate information and ideas in appropriate ways using appropriate terminology
• Consider applications and implications of science and evaluate their associated benefits and risks
• Consider ethical issues in the treatment of humans, other organisms and the environment
• Evaluate the role of the scientific community in validating new knowledge and ensuring integrity
• Evaluate the ways in which society uses science to inform decision making.

This course consists of six units:

AS Level

Unit 1 - CHEM1 - Foundation Chemistry
Topics

• 1.1 - Atomic Structure
• 1.2 - Amount of Substance
• 1.3 - Bonding
• 1.4 - Periodicity
• 1.5 - Introduction to Organic Chemistry
• 1.6 - Alkanes

Examination paper: 1 hour 15 minutes

Unit 2 - CHEM2 - Chemistry in Action
Topics

• 2.1 - Energetics
• 2.2 - Kinetics
• 2.3 - Equilibria
• 2.4 - Redox Reactions
• 2.5 - Group 7, the Halogens
• 2.6 - Group 2, the Alkaline Earth Metals
• 2.7 - Extraction of Metals
• 2.8 - Haloalkanes
• 2.9 - Alkenes
• 2.10 - Alcohols
• 2.11 - Analytical Techniques

Examination paper: 1 hour 45 minutes

Unit 3: CHEM3 - Internal Assessment - Investigative and Practical Skills
Topics

• In the course of their experimental work, candidates should learn to:
• Demonstrate and describe ethical, safe and skilful practical techniques
• Process and select appropriate qualitative and quantitative methods
• Make, record and communicate reliable and valid observations
• Make measurements with appropriate precision and accuracy
• Analyse, interpret, explain and evaluate the methodology, results and impact of their own and others, experimental and investigative activities in a variety of ways

Note that you will need to contact your examination centre to discuss the practical work and the route you will take. Also note your tutor has no involvement in this stage.

A practical skills assessment conducted at an examination centre

A2 Level

Unit 4 - CHEM4 - Kinetics, Equilibria and Organic Chemistry
Topics

• 4.1 - Kinetics
• 4.2 - Equilibria
• 4.3 - Acids and Bases
• 4.4 - Nomenclature and Isomerism in Organic Chemistry
• 4.5 - Compounds Containing the Carbonyl Group
• 4.6 - Aromatic Chemistry
• 4.7 - Amines
• 4.8 - Amino Acids
• 4.9 - Polymers
• 4.10 - Organic Synthesis and Analysis
• 4.11 - Structure Determination

Examination paper: 1 hour 45 minutes

Unit 5 - CHEM5 - Energetics, Redox and Inorganic Chemistry
Topics

• 5.1 - Thermodynamics
• 5.2 - Periodicity
• 5.3 - Redox Equilibria
• 5.4 - Transition Metals
• 5.5 - Reactions of Inorganic Compounds in Aqueous Solutions

Examination paper: 1 hour 45 minutes

Unit 6: CHEM6 - Internal Assessment - Investigative and Practical Skills in A2 Biology
Topics

In the course of their experimental work, candidates should learn to:

• Demonstrate and describe ethical, safe and skilful practical techniques
• Process and select appropriate qualitative and quantitative methods
• Make, record and communicate reliable and valid observations
• Make measurements with appropriate precision and accuracy
• Analyse, interpret, explain and evaluate the methodology, results and impact of their own and others? experimental and investigative activities in a variety of ways

Note that you will need to contact your examination centre to discuss the practical work and the route you will take. Also note your tutor has no involvement in this stage.

A practical skills assessment conducted at an examination centre

For further details visit

How Science Works

An understanding of How Science Works is a requirement. How Science Works is an underpinning set of concepts and is the means whereby students come to understand how scientists investigate scientific phenomena in their attempts to explain the world about us. Moreover, How Science Works recognises the contribution scientists have made to their own disciplines and to the wider world.

Recommended reading

AQA Chemistry AS: Student Book, Ted Lister and Janet Renshaw, Nelson Thornes, ISBN:

AQA Chemistry A2: Student Book, Ted Lister and Janet Renshaw, Nelson Thornes, ISBN:

Exams

Exams are taken at an AQA centre and we can provide an extensive list of centres for you.

We only require that students have basic English reading and writing skills, as full tutor support is given.