CHEMISTRY (OCR)

AS Course Outline

What is Chemistry?

Chemistry is the study of the composition and reactions of all substances. Chemists explain their observations of the nature and behaviour of substances in terms of the structure and arrangement of their particles: atoms, molecules or ions.

Amongst many topics we study the importance of chemistry in the pharmaceutical, agricultural and technology industries and how the development of new technology can reduce the effect of global warming.

The AS-level syllabus includes material intended to enhance the understanding of contemporary issues which are frequently in the media. This includes ‘green’ chemistry, fuel cells for powering electric vehicles, chemotherapy treatments and biochemicals used to fight viruses.

Which degree courses will Chemistry enable me to study at University?

• Chemistry is essential for Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Pharmacy, Forensic Science, Biomedical Sciences and of course, Chemistry degrees. Chemistry provides a means for students to develop intellectual skills alongside manipulative, observational, evaluative and general problem-solving skills.
• It is a preferred qualification for many degree courses and is even advantageous for degree courses in Law, Economics, Accounting and Psychology.

What do I need for the course?

• At least a grade 5 in GCSE Chemistry or 5,5 in Double or Dual Award Science is essential, but higher grades would be preferable.
• Good mathematical skills including:
  The manipulation of algebraic expressions
  Collating and displaying data in a graphical form.

CHEMISTRY (OCR) Summary of Content at AS
Course Content
Module 1:	Development of Practical Skills in Chemistry
Module 2:	Foundations in Chemistry - including electronic structure and bonding; acid-base and redox reactions; mole calculations
Module 3:	Periodic Table and Energy - including periodicity; enthalpy changes; reaction rates and chemical equilibrium; qualitative analysis
Module 4:	Core Organic Chemistry - including hydrocarbons, alcohols and haloalkanes; organic synthesis; analytical techniques (IR and MS)

Structure of the Course

Weekly practical sessions are a key part of the course and practical skills will be developed and assessed in these lessons. Homework is set after each lesson and used to consolidate learning. Mock exams take place once a month.

Introductory reading
CGP Head Start to AS Chemistry

Useful Texts
A-Level Chemistry for OCR Student Book (Year 1 and AS)
Rob Ritchie, David Gen

Calculations in AS/A level Chemistry
Jim Clark

Further Reading
Stuff Matters: Exploring the Marvellous Materials That Shape Our Man-Made World
Mark Miodownik

Why Does Asparagus Make Your Wee Smell? And 57 other curious food and drink questions
Andy Brunning

Periodic Tales: The Curious Lives of the Elements
Hugh Alsersley-Williams