Purpose and Aims:

• Develops scientific knowledge and understanding of chemistry theories and practice.

• Encourages experimental skills, safe laboratory practice, and handling variables.

• Promotes the use of scientific data and evidence to solve problems and evaluate scientific methods.

• Emphasizes clear communication using scientific terminology, notation, and conventions.

• Highlights the impact of chemistry on people and the environment.

• Fosters enjoyment and informed interest in science for further study.

Key Content Areas:

• States of matter

• Atoms, elements, and compounds

• Stoichiometry

• Electrochemistry

• Chemical energetics

• Chemical reactions

• Acids, bases, and salts

• The Periodic Table

• Metals

• Chemistry of the environment

• Organic chemistry

• Experimental techniques and chemical analysis

Assessment Structure:

• Core and Extended assessment options, each with multiple-choice and theory papers.

• Practical assessment includes either a practical test or an alternative to practical paper.

• Assessment objectives:

  • Knowledge with understanding (50%)

  • Handling information and problem-solving (30%)

  • Experimental skills and investigations (20%)

Core Concepts and Skills:

• Understanding atomic structure, isotopes, and the Periodic Table.

• Describing chemical bonding: ionic, covalent, and metallic bonds.

• Explaining properties of solids, liquids, gases, and changes of state.

• Relating structure and bonding to properties such as melting/boiling points and conductivity.

• Applying kinetic particle theory to explain states of matter and diffusion.

• Interpreting and using chemical symbols, formulae, and equations.

Scientific Process and Application:

• Plan and carry out experiments, make observations, and record data accurately.

• Analyze and interpret data, draw conclusions, and evaluate methods.

• Apply knowledge to unfamiliar contexts and solve quantitative and qualitative problems.

Skills Development:

• Observation, analysis, and problem-solving in practical and theoretical contexts.

• Effective communication of scientific ideas and results.

• Critical thinking about the impact of chemistry in society and the environment.

Mathematical Requirements:

• Use of units, symbols, and significant figures.

• Basic calculations involving relative atomic mass, formula mass, and mole concept.

• Example equation in MathML: n=mM where n = amount of substance (mol), m = mass (g), M = molar mass (g/mol).