Lower Line Chemistry

 

THE SCIENCES AT GCSE

It is important to emphasise that due care and attention is vital in making the correct Science decision at this stage.  Progress in each individual Science subject so far is critical, as is interest in the subject and perceived likely A level and career choices.  Pupils, parents and teachers all have an input, but it must be stressed that the final choices place a responsibility upon the pupil to work with a positive attitude towards their chosen GCSE examinations.

Head of Science:  Mrs L. J. C. Fisher

 

Lower Grammar (Year 9)

Pupils in Lower Grammar have 3 lessons of Chemistry per week. The programme of study sets out to complete the Key Stage 3 syllabus, introduce the pupils to safe laboratory practice and start some of the basic topics from the GCSE course.

GCSE

Why choose Chemistry?

This course is intended to develop the traditional core chemical ideas through modern technological advances and the various applications of that chemistry in everyday life. As such the course is highly accessible, relevant and stimulating for pupils from all over the world. A major part of the new syllabus is “How Science Works” – a study of science methodology and the value of different types of evidence.

 

Teachers:  Mr J.R.Middlebrook, Mr S.A. Andrews, Mr I.Cunliffe, Dr. D.Hallam

 

Course Content

Chemistry is essentially an experimental science and as such, the course devotes a high proportion of the time to practical experimentation and investigation work. Pupils are expected to be fully involved and question their observations at all times.

 

Content includes:

  • Rocks and Metals
  • Products from Oil
  • Structures of Atoms, Molecules and Compounds
  • Physical Chemistry – Rates and Energy
  • The Periodic Table
  • Acids, Alkalis and Salts

More details and further information can be found in the syllabus:-  AQA GCSE Chemistry 4402

Assessment                    

There are three examinations (worth a total of 75%), all of which (C1, C2, C3) will be taken in the Syntax year. The coursework component, comprising an Investigative Skills Assignment (ISA), makes up the final 25% of the marks for the GCSE.

Two 70 minute periods per week are timetabled for Chemistry in both Grammar and Syntax.

 

Higher Line and Higher education Options

Chemistry remains an essential subject for anyone considering science or a related discipline (medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, nursing, physiotherapy, biochemistry, biotechnology, food science etc.) in later life.  Chemistry at GCSE provides an excellent training in analytical thinking and so is a useful basis for many subjects, such as business or law.  It is also a stimulating and exciting subject in its own right.

Chemistry is offered at AS and A2 Levels

 

Head of Department: Mr J. R. Middlebrook