CHEMISTRY (OCR)
A2 COURSE OUTLINE
What is A2 Chemistry?
A2 Chemistry goes beyond that of the AS course, expanding on many of the AS topics and introducing others which are entirely new.
New topics include aromatic compounds, carbonyls, condensation polymers and transition elements. Amongst the new concepts introduced are chirality, entropy and electrode potentials.
Candidates learn more about physical analytical techniques, and how the information they provide can be combined to enhance the breadth and depth of a chemist’s problem solving skills.
Applications to everyday contexts are always emphasised and students will learn about the invaluable contribution chemistry makes to modern life, not only in terms of the analytical processes it provides, but the ever-improving materials it develops, including pharmaceuticals.
Ongoing research is currently developing degradable polymers, medicines with improved pharmacological activity and fewer side-effects, and fuel-cell vehicles as alternatives to those which are petrol or diesel powered. All of these, and more, feature in the recently-revised A-level specification.
Candidates will need to develop the skill of bringing together concepts and knowledge from different areas of chemistry and applying them in particular contexts, some of which may be unfamiliar.
What do I need to get before I start the course?
- You will be advised about this when you have your interview; your personal goals will determine when you start the A2 and whether or not any AS units should be repeated.
- Candidates will require slightly more advanced mathematical skills than are strictly essential for AS Chemistry.
| Chemistry (OCR) A2 Specification | |
|
F324 |
Arenes, Carbonyls, Carboxylic Acids, Esters and Amines. Amino Acids, Proteins, Polyesters, Polyamides, Chirality and Routes in Organic Synthesis. Analytical techniques - Chromatography and Spectroscopy. |
|
F325 |
Rates of Reactions, Equilibrium Constants, Acids, Bases, pH and Buffers. Born-Haber Cycles, Entropy and Free Energy, Electrode Potentials and Fuel cells. Chemistry of Transition Elements. |
|
F326 |
Candidates carry out three assessed practical tasks, one qualitative, one quantitative and one evaluative. |
Structure of the Course
The course will be taught for 6 lessons per week in three blocks of 1.5 hours.
1.5 hours every fortnight will be set aside for practical work, and practical skills will be developed and assessed in these lessons.
Homework is set after each class and is an essential part of the course. Mock exams take place each month.
Recommended Texts
David Gent and Rob Richie OCR A2 Chemistry Heinemann ISBN-978-0435691981
David Acaster and Lawrie Ryan Chemistry 2 for OCR Cambridge ISBN- 9780521746045
