A Level - Chemistry

Course Information

What does the course involve?

If you have ever found yourself asking the questions ‘why?’ or ‘how?’ then A Level Chemistry will appeal to you. The vast majority of materials we accept as a familiar part of our surroundings owe their existence to chemists, be it a computer chip, a new fabric or a new antibiotic. At A Level you will take your understanding of the behaviour of materials to a higher level, and in the process you will discover that all was not as it seemed at GCSE – chemicals can behave in ways you aren’t aware of! In the process you will experiment with a much wider range of substances than you have encountered so far, and learn how to handle them safely.

Here at One, we teach the new OCR specification (Chemistry A H432). You will be taught through a combination of practical work and theory, with a variety of approaches including discussion, model building, group work and practical investigations. You will be issued with a chemistry textbook written specially for the OCR course. Each section is targeted specifically at the essential content and skill areas of the corresponding module. Additional reading and reference material will be available to all students via the Learning Resource Centre. Other events include a spectroscopy workshop at UEA, and entering more able students for the RSC Chemistry Olympiad.

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Entry Requirements

At least 6 GCSEs at grades 9-4 , including GCSE English Language, and meeting the entry criteria of individual subjects (Level 2 vocational qualifications at Merit or Distinction will be treated as equivalent to one GCSE)

Grade 6 in GCSE Chemistry or grade 66 in GCSE Science.

Grade 6 in GCSE Mathematics due to the high mathematical content of the subject.

Grade 4 in GCSE English Language or Literature.

Average GCSE score 5.5.

Can I take additional qualifications?

If you choose to study Chemistry, you will usually take it alongside two other A levels. Subjects which complement Chemistry include Mathematics, Biology and Physics.

How will I be assessed?

The course is assessed by 100% examinations at the end of the second year of study.

3 exam papers, as outlined below:
• Paper 1 – inorganic/physical 2h15m (100 marks)
• Paper 2 – organic/analytical 2h15m (100 marks)
• Paper 3 – unified chemistry 1h30m (70 marks)

In addition to the above, the students will be entered for the Practical Endorsement qualification, which sits alongside their A level, but does not contribute towards it. It is a recognition of the practical skills they have gained over the duration of the course.  

What are the costs?

There are no charges to study this course. However, there may be some costs for trips.

What is the duration?

This is a two year course.

What is the UCAS points tariff for this course?

A Level

Katie Allen, A Level Biology, Chemistry and Maths

Watch Katie’s story as she talks about her love of learning, being a feminist and her dream of joining the ground-breaking field of biomedical science.

How do I apply?

Click here to apply