OCR A Level
Why study Chemistry?
- To develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other
- To develop and demonstrate a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods
- To develop competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills
- To develop their interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject
- To understand how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society
What will I study?
At Wallingford we currently study the OCR Chemistry (A) Specification. Many of the topics we will explore at KS5 will be familiar from your GCSE studies such as atomic structure, rates or reaction and chemical equilibria, moles and organic chemistry. We will simply develop your understanding of these concepts further as well as introducing new concepts such as organic synthesis, analytical techniques, such as spectrometry and spectroscopy, enthalpy and entropy. During your first year you will master lots of new skills, both practical and theoretical, which we will then build on further in the second year of your course.
How will I study?
Chemistry develops a wide range of skills which stem from the range of learning and teaching activities that are used. These include:
- Practical work to illustrate theory
- Practical work to develop investigative and manual skills
- Note-taking
- Presentations
- Modelling
- Independent study and research
- Group work
How will my work be assessed?
This course is assessed through written examinations which will include a combination of multiple choices, short answer and extended response questions. Practical work must be completed over the academic year although it does not directly contribute towards the final grade you achieve.
What are the entry requirements?
Chemistry Grade 6 or above, or Combined Science GCSE Grade 6/6 or above
Maths GCSE Grade 6 or above