Chemistry - GCSE
What will I study in Chemistry?
Units 1, 2 and 3 follow a series of diverse chemical themes, ranging from the structure of the Earth to food products.
Unit 1
Rocks as building materials and as a source of metals. This topic looks at building materials and extraction of metals from their ores. Fuels and Plastics from Oil looks at the refining of fossil fuels (alkanes) and newer alternative fuels. Plant Oils form an important part of our diet and as emulsions such as ice-cream. Earth Structure and Atmosphere considers the 4500 million years old planet and how it has changed over time.
Unit 2
Atomic structure and chemical bonding involves a study of the particles that make up atoms and how they are arranged affect the properties of materials. How much material? is a mathematical section on calculations to predict the mass of a product from a process. Hot and cold reactions gives experience of chemical reactions that give out or take in heat. Electrolysis is used to make reactive metals such as sodium. Acids and Alkalis are well known chemical opposites which provide a good opportunity for practical experiments.
Unit 3
(Extension material only for the separate Chemistry GCSE)
This Unit looks at the development of the Periodic Table and the work of Mendeleev. We study Acids and Alkalis in further detail, including writing ionic equations. Water supplies and Hard and Soft Water is an interesting topic and reveals how different types of water affect our everyday lives. Energy Changes were dealt with in Unit 2, but this theme is considered in more detail, providing a good foundation for further study at A level. The Chemical Analysis topic reviews a range of simple laboratory tests and reactions that are used to identify metals and non-metal ions.
How will I be assessed?
Unit 1 has two 30 minute multiple-choice style examinations, taken in November and March of the one-year course, or in March and June of the first year of the two-year course.
Units 2 & 3 are each assessed by 45 minutes written examinations, which are sat in June at the end of the course.
Repeat Unit 1 exams may also be taken in March or June. The arrangements for Biology and Physics are the same as this.
One practical assessment or ‘ISA’, involving a laboratory experiment, followed by a written examination, is required for this GCSE.
Who will teach me?
Andrew Homer (BSc, Manchester University; PGCE) is Head of Science and ICT at Lansdowne College. He is a very experienced tutor, having taught in a range of schools for nearly thirty years.
Stephen Owen (MSc Oxon) is a highly experienced tutor, who has also worked in research.
Hannah Rosa (BSc, Leeds University; PGCE) is a young and very enthusiastic member of the team.
What subjects complement Chemistry?
Chemistry, along with Biology and Physics, forms a core suit of subjects, which are essential at GCSE level. Ideally students should take all three sciences as Science and Additional Science options. Occasionally a student may prefer to take two separate Sciences, for example, just Biology and Chemistry. We recommend that students follow a ‘balanced’ curriculum, giving them an advantage when applying for places in Higher Education.
What careers can chemistry lead to?
Students with a good aptitude for Chemistry at GCSE may opt to take an A level in the subject. This subject is a requirement for any student wishing to pursue a career in Medicine, Pharmacy, Veterinary Science and related subjects. Careers in Forensics, Food Science, Pathology, Environmental Inspectors, Metallurgy, Dye and Paint manufacture may all require a qualification in Chemistry.