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.

Such examples include: why certain compounds can be used to make large scale explosives. Why and how the development of new technology can reduce the effect of global warming.

The New 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 other pharmaceuticals.

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 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 courses and is even advantageous for degree courses in Law, Economics and Accounting.

What do I need for the course?

• At least a grade C in GCSE Chemistry or CC in Double or Dual Award Science is essential, but higher grades would be preferable.
• A good understanding of Maths including:
  The manipulation of algebraic expressions
  Collating and displaying data in a graphical form.

Chemistry (OCR) AS Specification
Component One Breadth in Chemistry 50% of AS Level 70 marks 1 hour 30 minutes	Development of practical skills in chemistry Skills of planning, implementing, analysis and evaluation Foundations in chemistry Includes: Atoms, compounds, molecules and equations Amount of substance Acid-base and redox reactions Electrons, bonding and structure.
Component Two Depth in Chemistry 50% of AS Level 70 marks 1 hour 30 minutes	Periodic table and energy The Periodic table and periodicity Group 2 and the halogens Qualitative analysis Enthalpy changes Reaction rates and equilibrium (qualitative). Core organic chemistry Basic concepts Hydrocarbons Alcohols and haloalkanes Organic synthesis Analytical techniques (IR, MS).

Structure of the Course

The course will be taught in 5 x 1 hour lessons per week, supplemented by tutorials and revision sessions.

One lesson each week is dedicated to 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 once a month.

Core text A Level Chemistry A for OCR Student Book (Ocr a Level): Rob Ritchie, Dave Gent: ISBN:9780198351979 Recommended reading prior to the course CGP Head Start to AS Chemistry ISBN-13: 978-1847621160