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Chemistry A Level

Study Chemistry in a range of different contexts. Practical work is based on an investigational and problem-solving approach and ideas are introduced in a spiral way.

  • Level

    Level 3

  • Type

    GCE A level

  • Study Mode

    Part-time

  • Duration

    2 Years

  • Location

    Farnham College

  • Pathway

    A Levels,

    Science

Chemistry is everywhere. We cannot live without it! During this two year course, you will learn about the underlying chemistry concepts behind many essential reactions in life and industry. We review and build on GCSE knowledge in the early units. There are plenty of experiments in this course and, together with other activities, they help you understand the topics.

Modules include:

Year 1

  • Foundation Chemistry
  • Alkanes, Alkenes and Alcohols
  • Rates and Equilibrium
  • Group 2 Metals and the Halogens
  • Structures and Bonding
  • Spectroscopic Techniques

Year 2

  • Carbonyls and Carboxylic Acid Derivatives
  • Nitrogen Chemistry
  • Further Rates and Equilibrium
  • Acids and Bases Redox
  • Transition Metals
  • Analytical Techniques
  • Carbon-13 and Hydrogen NMR

All 16-19 year olds on full-time programmes will be required to retake GCSE English and Maths or to undertake Functional Skills, if they have not already attained the equivalent of a GCSE grade C in these subjects, every year of their course, until they complete their studies.

Those who want to explore Chemistry at a higher level and who enjoy the challenge of solving problems and learning in the context of experimental investigation and who plan to study science further in, for instance, areas of medicine, dentistry, pharmacy or chemical engineering.

Newly refurbished laboratories designed for experiential learning. A friendly environment where students’ interest in Chemistry can grow in classes where everyone counts and has access to support from teachers, whose top priority is student success and fulfilment. The success rate at A level is 100% with most students achieving the higher grades and out-performing their contemporaries.

Specialist Academic Skills

  • Selection of data with later analysis in mind
  • Recognising patterns and drawing qualitative conclusions
  • Prioritising causes and effects with a view to making choices based on evidence

Subject Specific Enrichment

  • Manipulative skills with a variety of familiar apparatus
  • Application of manipulative skills with unfamiliar apparatus
  • Make detailed observations of chemical processes using a variety of senses
  • Make conclusions based on careful observation and chemical knowledge
  • Use secondary data to draw conclusions about the accuracy and reliability of experimental data

Lessons involve a combination of theory and practical activities and class discussions,

Homework includes reading textbooks, making summary notes, answering set questions, and preparing for tests and exams. Frequent homework/private study is essential for success in this subject.

Videos, model-making and practical work develop your skills and reinforce learning.

Degrees or careers in chemistry, chemical engineering, medicine, veterinary science, pharmacology or the environment. As well as going on to work as scientists, former Farnham College chemists are following careers as varied as law, archaeology and commerce.

Applicants should have five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including English, with maths and science/chemistry at grade 6.

Protective clothing of a Lab coat and eye protection is lent to the students.

You will need to buy the course textbook:
https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-and-a-level/chemistry-a-h032-h432-from-2015/textbooks/

Why Farnham College?

  • Clear routes of progression with qualifications ranging from foundation level to degree level!
  • Industry experienced teaching staff give you the responsibility and independence you need to take charge of your own future.
  • 100+

    Courses available

  • 95%

    of our graduates go into work or higher education

  • 65+

    years of teaching experience

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