There are three Science departments, whose aim is to instil a love of science, to help our pupils see the importance and relevance of science in their world, and ultimately, to inspire them to follow a career in the sciences. We have high expectations of all pupils and, wherever possible, we deliver the curriculum using practical and investigative approaches.
From Year 9 onwards, the material in all three Science subjects is GCSE standard and all lessons are taught by specialist teachers. Lessons contain practicals where appropriate, so experimental and analytical skills can be developed.
The study of chemistry leads to understanding of the world around us, helping to describe and explain our world. Chemistry is part of every aspect of our lives, from cleaning our homes to space travel. It is a stimulating, enjoyable and challenging subject that fosters hands-on practical techniques, as well as theoretical skills.
GCSE Specification: Edexcel Pupils sit two papers at the end of Year 11, both 1 hour and 45 minutes long. Each paper is worth 100 marks and 50% of the GCSE.
In Chemistry, there are 4 overarching areas: States of Matter, Atomic Structure, The Periodic Table and Bonding. The topics are short and will be continued in further years as part of a ‘spiralling curriculum’.
Topic 1: States of Matter
States of matter; mixtures; filtration and crystallisation; paper chromatography; distillation; drinking water.
Topic 2: Atomic Structure
Structure of an atom; atomic number and mass number; isotopes.
Topic 3: The Periodic Table
Elements and the periodic table; atomic number and the periodic table; electronic configurations and the periodic table.
Topic 4: Bonding
In Year 10, there are five further topic areas: acids and alkalis, calculation involving masses, metals and electrochemistry and quantitative analysis.
Topic 1: Acids and Alkalis
The pH scale; bases and salts; preparing salts; neutralisation, solubility.
Topic 2: Calculation involving Masses
Conservation of mass; empirical formulae; the mole.
Topic 3: Metals and Electrochemistry
Electrolysis; reactivity; ores; oxidation and reduction; dynamic equilibrium; transition metals; corrosion; electroplating; alloying.
Topic 4: Quantitative Analysis
Yields; atom economy; concentrations; titrations; molar volumes of gases; Haber process; factors affecting equilibrium; chemical and fuel cells.
Topic 5: Groups in the Periodic Table, Rates and Thermodynamics
The study during Year 11 is grouped into three areas: fuels and the atmosphere; organic chemistry; and qualitative analysis.
Topic 1: Fuels and the Atmosphere
Hydrocarbons and crude oil; combustion; fuels and pollution; the early atmosphere; the atmosphere today; climate change.
Topic 2: Organic Chemistry
Alkanes and alkenes; alcohols and ethanol production; carboxylic acids; polymers; addition polymerisation; condensation polymerisation.
Topic 3: Qualitative Analysis
A Level Specification: OCR B (Salters)
AS Level Specification: OCR B (Salters)Chemistry A Level at TWGGS takes pupils on a journey through ten Storylines, following the Chemistry B (Salter’s) OCR examination specification to introduce chemical concepts through a spiral approach. These storylines engage pupils through learning in a contemporary context and range from concerns about the ozone layer to the development of new medicines.
In Chemistry, there are 10 overarching areas:
The first five topics are taught in the Lower 6th and cover many chemical ideas which are explored within different topics as part of a ‘spiralling curriculum’ in which pupils learn more about a topic each time it is reviewed or encountered.
The Chemistry B (Salter’s) specification is uniquely different from other A Level specifications because:
Pupils will be assessed on how well they carry out a wide range of practical work and how to record the results of this work. These hands-on skills form the practical endorsement. By carrying out experimental work through the course, pupils will develop their ability to:
Pupils will be taught the necessary skills to be a competent and effective practical chemist.
This is a very accessible course that relates Chemistry to its everyday roots and has a high practical content. This course suits those pupils who are prepared to play an active role in their own learning and involves a variety of teaching styles encompassing experimental, research, presentation and problem-solving based activities.
Fundamentals of Chemistry
2 hours and 15 minutes written examination
110 marks
Scientific Literacy in Chemistry
100 marks
Practical Skills in Chemistry
1 hour and 30 minutes written examination
60 marks
Practical Endorsement in Chemistry
Foundations of Chemistry
1 hour 30 minutes written examination
70 marks
50% of total AS level
Storylines*
Chemistry in Depth
AS Level Chemistry B (Salter’s) OCR specification
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